On (Freelance) Writing
7 short reflections on the craft of writing from 7 years freelancing.
This month marks 7 years since I quit my job to go full-time freelance.
Instead of celebrating with a cake, I drafted 7 reflections (just for you) on the craft of writing. Here you go:
1. Consistency is a superpower. Sitting down to write today makes it easier to write tomorrow, and so on. My hardest writing days usually fall after extended breaks.
2. Never write from a blank page. Start with an outline, research notes, an inspiring quote, the rap you wrote for your dog — anything! Nothing will slow your writing process down more than a blinking cursor on an empty page.
3. Remember that reading (even if it’s for educational purposes) is a form of entertainment. As a writer, ask yourself how you can make the reading experience more fun or memorable for your audience. Add stories. Use playful language. Surprise the reader with quirky facts. Be anything but boring.
4. Give the reader what you promised. Reading is an active experience. That’s to say, reading requires time and effort. If you come up with a bold headline to drive clicks, don’t fall flat in the delivery of the article. Readers will stop trusting you with their attention. Great writing contains substance.
