One of the motivations for my seachange just over two years ago was my growing consciousness of the fragility of life. I’d done a lot over my twenty-odd years of adulthood, but had been nervous about pursuing my real passions nonetheless.
The whole ‘life’s short’ thing gave me the incentive to focus more on my writing, but I’ve spent much of the last couple of years floundering—unsure exactly what I wanted.
In all honesty I still don’t know if my ultimate (ie. never-going-to-happen) dream is to write a novel or author a hilarious column in a magazine or newspaper. Or both. Or neither.
But, rather than just float along I thought it was time to set some writing goals.
I see my ‘writing’ as falling into four main categories.
1. Preparing online content for business or organisational websites, including ghost blogging
I’m currently focusing my attention on my local area as there aren’t a lot of freelance writers and bloggers on the Fraser Coast, but it also means my potential market is somewhat limited.
This is still a new venture and I must confess I struggle a little to ‘sell’ myself as it’s WAY outside of my comfort zone. However, I’ve spent much of my life writing for others and preparing content on subjects about which I might know little, so feel well-equipped to deliver.
2. Writing freelance articles for magazines, newspapers or websites
Being able to write about what I want and in my own voice is my dream. The idea (however) of pitching ideas to editors or magazines is scarier than approaching businesses because, not only am I having to sell my services, but I’m selling myself—my voice and my thoughts.
3. Blogging
I’m really enjoying book blogging. I’d love to be able to do more of it or earn a more substantial income via my love of reading and writing but options seem limited.
I’m not currently doing any paid or sponsored work on my own blog and am happy to continue to write what I want, when I want in Debbish. I’ve moved away from very personal blog topics at the moment, but who knows… that may again change.
4. Creative writing / fiction
I have 50,000 words of a novel I wrote last November; and 30,000 words of a young adult novel I started writing a-half-dozen years ago, wallowing in bowels of my desktop computer (oh, and dropbox… just in case!).
I’m not sure I’ll do anything with either, but I’d love to at least have a first draft completed… as much for that sense of achievement (of actually finishing something!) as anything else.
Because I don’t want to live with regrets, I’m committing now to:
- Pursue opportunities (locally and elsewhere) to develop a stable of clients
- Identify potential publications and pitch one article a month
- Continue blogging regularly in Debbish and continue to refine my personal blogging voice
- Complete a first draft of BOTH novels by the end of this calendar year.
Frankly I’m not particularly confident on the first point and numbers 2 and 4 scare the bejesus out of me. But… I’m sharing this here so I’m accountable. To someone. Somewhere.
Any hints or suggestions?
Belatedly linking up with Essentially Jess & IBOT today.
June 2, 2015
whale season is almost upon us once again & some help in letting as many people as possible know how unique Hervey Bay is for whale watching will help us both. Sarah, my daughter said a mother & calf were spotted off Airlie Beach yesterday. Talk soon, Jill
June 5, 2015
I really must get out there this year.
June 2, 2015
After reading your reviews, you really have an editors eye for structural detail & the things that work & otherwise. As always wishing you all the best…
June 2, 2015
Oh thanks Jo… I think I would have loved to have been an editor, but think I left my run a little too late for that. Plus I’d hate to HAVE to read books I didn’t like! 🙂 (Like non-fiction. Gah!!!!)
June 2, 2015
It sounds like a good plan (all 4). Nothing much happens without a bit of a way forward. Best of luck with it all 🙂
June 2, 2015
Thanks very much Dani.
June 2, 2015
I’ll also want to finish my first draft this year 🙂 I’m rooting for you Debbie! I hope you do too!!! You are a good writer! Would share excerpts here on your blog help you staying on track?
June 2, 2015
Hmmm… I’m not sure. Bizarrely I’m not confident about sharing non-bloggy stuff. (I don’t know why!) I think I put something on here from a YA novel I started forever ago, but it was pretty crappy and I was a little embarrassed later!
June 2, 2015
Pursue what you are passionate about, and I think you can find career choices within the book world. I took my skill set and love of blogging/books and started my own virtual assistant business. Have you thought about editing or is writing more your passion?
June 2, 2015
I love the idea of editing Kimberley but not really sure about options. The idea of formal study at this point is a bit overwhelming (I have a BA and MBA), plus I’m not sure I could afford it. I’ve done a lot of editing and QA work in my former government roles but think people wanting to hire an editor probably would want a formal qualification.
June 2, 2015
Oh your writing flows beautifully 🙂
Get that draft finished and up on Amazon, you never know what will happen, but at least you’ve set that baby free 🙂
June 2, 2015
Thanks Marina…. And yes, I just shared the self-publishing journey of another writer (and blogger) so although overwhelming, it seems more doable!
June 2, 2015
That’s a great idea… making yourself accountable. I’ll be keeping tabs on you 🙂
June 2, 2015
Argh, no!
June 2, 2015
Sounds like a perfect plan to me. I feel like I’m a blogging crossroad at the moment. It’s creating a lot of work but not necessarily paying its way. Possibly time for a rethink.
June 2, 2015
I spend HOURS a day on blog stuff Raych and yet I don’t make any money from my own blog. Mostly that’s spent reading and commenting on others’ blogs as well as doing my own posts. I guess I hope that it stands as some sort of portfolio for my writing (and ability to follow-through) at some point.
June 2, 2015
Way to go Deb!! I love that you’ve put yourself out there, you have far too much talent not to. Best of luck!!
June 2, 2015
I just wish I had more drive or motivation or something Felicity… I can barely get myself to make the tiniest of steps!
June 2, 2015
Just start Deb, email all the publications you want to write for and back yourself. It’s hard getting a look in but once you do you’ll be away. Let me know if I can help in any way x
June 2, 2015
Thanks Em!
June 2, 2015
I agree, writing about / for your local area is a great opportunity. I did a bit of it when I started my business (and my blog, it was originally called Redland City Living) 2 1/2 years ago, but found it wasn’t really for me. One of the benefits though was we got out and about a lot more in our local area to do reviews etc!
June 2, 2015
I think this would be more writing for websites rather than localised stuff. It’s more that I’d target local businesses to write for their sites. I’m conscious though that the market here is limited and I should look for opportunities more widely. Having said that, freelancing for publications would be what I’d most like to do!
June 2, 2015
I’m holding you accountable Deb and you’ll be fine on all counts.
June 2, 2015
Fingers crossed!
June 2, 2015
No one wants regrets. My advice is to have courage and take action. You can do this.
June 2, 2015
Thanks Malinda and I know you’re right… #noregrets
June 3, 2015
It would be so much easier if potential opportunities sought us out instead of the other way round. You’re a talented writer – I can see you in print. It’s just a matter of where exactly. And the only person who can answer that is you.
June 3, 2015
Yes Char, true – about me being the one to work it out I mean!!!
June 3, 2015
I think you are a very entertaining author and you have a distinct/ unique voice. I don’t know how to explain that properly but most blogs sort of mimic others in a way that yours doesn’t. Good to have a plan and those goals are extremely realistic!
June 3, 2015
Thanks Jess.
June 3, 2015
Marketing my services is something I find tough to do too. I know people will really benefit from what I can provide, but still I find it hard to ask them to buy. I’ve recently started positioning myself for freelance writing too, so I’m about to go down that same path of figuring out how to get clients in that area. Good luck with it!
June 3, 2015
THanks Glenda.
June 4, 2015
Goals are awesome, and while the thought of pitching terrifies me as well, I think it’s great that you’re planning to do it.
As for the novels, you have nothing to lose by finishing them. And everything to gain. x
June 5, 2015
Thanks Jess. x
June 18, 2015
Hi Debbie,
I just love the way you write! It’s very entertaining to read. I am also into book blogging but has a bit of a hard time of reading books fast. I’m working full time and blogging is just a past time activity. It usually takes me two to three weeks before I can write a book review, and this really frustrates me. I noticed that you are able to publish book reviews every other day, so I’d like to ask about the technique that you’re using. How’s your reading pace? How many books can you read in a month?
June 18, 2015
Oh thanks very much. I’m actually not working full-time at the moment so it’s much easier to read and review. I don’t allow myself to read during the day however (some arbitrary rule I came up with). I see my days as being for ‘work’. I do some writing and reviewing during the day, but I read in the evening usually for a couple of hours if possible.
I read (and write) very quickly and generally read about 3 books a week. So I guess I read 12 – 14 in a calendar month. If I get too far ahead in my reading and behind in my reviewing I take a few nights off so I can catch up on the writing.
June 19, 2015
Wow! That’s very impressive. I guess I have to practice reading and writing fast as well. I’m nowhere near your pace. I think with your calibre and commitment, great writing comes naturally. Thank you very much for answering my question. Good luck.
June 19, 2015
You’re very welcome and thanks. I’m not sure if it’s completely practice though… I’ve always been a quick reader and writer. (I speak very quickly as well… which isn’t always a good thing!) 🙂