16 January 2010
by 
My Writing Career, Take One
I have been a professional freelance writer since August 2008. I’ve learned a lot about the craft and business of writing, especially writing for the web and connecting with others via social media. My freelance writing career took off in fits and starts, and I was elated. Everything was turning out great.
Then real life hit me, full force. A lot of unexpected occurrences piled up at once, and were not conducive to nurturing a fledgling writing business. I was juggling too many balls in the air, and when life knocked me over, they all came crashing down around me.
In Spring 2009, I lost my internet connection for six months. Obviously this was devastating to my freelancing. All of my clients, assignments, and contacts were web based! There was no way for me to continue until I corrected this issue, and many other issues that led up to this point.
What Would You Do?
So, I gathered up all the pride I could muster, and went out and got a real world job. Minimum wage at a retail store, it certainly couldn’t do more for me but keep my head above water until I could deal with everything going on. It was a slow, painful process. The job even took time away from my writing, which I was continuing to do on the side as practice until I could get back online.
I had a lot of interior work to do as well. This could easily be considered a “failure” by most people, and all the emotions surrounding this unintended break were affecting me deeply as well. I had to take time out for me, to evaluate my position in life, and whether I wanted to give freelance writing another try.
So I carefully made a plan, based on what I knew worked and what didn’t. I explored all my options, and decided to be more selective in the kind of freelance writing projects I took on. I knew I needed reliable, consistent writing gigs, and I needed to trust my clients, and not work with “fly-by-night” gigs that held absolutely no security, or even no guarantee that I’d get paid.
My Writing Career, Take Two
I’ve been back online for a few months now, and have slowly been rebuilding my client base. I am taking the time to find out what works for me, and not being tossed about by every gig that comes to call. I am rebuilding my social networks, as time allows. I’m reuniting with old friends, who never left my side, at least in spirit.
I have been doing what’s right for me, and not letting one setback (no matter how large it appears in my eyes) get me down. I got up, and I am trying again. I am a success, simply because I refuse to stay down, refuse to wallow in the pain of a “failure”. I will continue to press on, no matter what life tosses my way.
New Beginnings
One thing you should remember, if you find yourself in a similar situation: it is never easy to get back up. There is so much wounded pride, so many “what ifs” floating around in your mind. It is much easier to let it go and find a different path.
But I’m a writer. I always have been. Writing is my life blood, and I cannot turn away from it. I suspect it is the same for many of you. If writing is your calling, you will find a way to make it work. I encourage you, dare you to fulfill every one of your writing dreams, and then make new ones!
Have you overcome adversity, in your freelance writing or in other aspects of your life? Share your story, so we may all learn from your shining example!
Photo Credit: SpecialKRB
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Oh, Kim! My eyes are filled to the brim with tears! I have watched the majority of your journey. I knew from the first time we connected online that you were a shining star in the writing world!
You are talented. You are strong. You are wise. You are succeeding!
Thank you so much for sharing your story!!!
Yes, adversity is something many of us deal with. I never thought I’d see my writing dreams come true either (because of domestic violence, health issues, etc.) but we must – absolutely must – keep going; keep fighting; keep writing.
And you are doing just that!!!
Big hugs!
Michele
Michele shares: Raw Juice Girl’s 1st YouTube Video + Contests!
Aw Michele, don’t cry! The hardest part was getting out of my own way and letting myself try again! That nagging editor voice that lives in my mind tried to convince me to give up. Good thing I’m a lot more stubborn than that!
And “writer at first sight?” Gosh! *blushes*
Big hugs! I couldn’t do it without you and all my other online friends. You all know exactly what to say to keep me pressing onward!
~Kimberlee
Kimberlee Ferrell shares: Letting the Words Flow
Aw!! I’m so glad we can help encourage and inspire you, Kim. I know Becca (and our other writing pals) feel the same way!!!
Hugs,
Michele
Michele shares: Raw Juice Girl’s 1st YouTube Video + Contests!
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by kimferrell, kimferrell and Michele L. Tune, RawJuiceGirl. RawJuiceGirl said: RT @kimferrell My 1st Post at WRA – Beginning Again: Reviving My Freelance Writing Career http://tinyurl.com/yz3tfcw <— Fantabulous job!!! [...]
Kimberlee,
I admire you for refusing to give up your dreams–despite setbacks. Good for you! With that spirit, there’s no end to what you’ll be able to accomplish!
Wishing you the very best life has to offer!
Jeanne
Thank you Jeanne! I hope my story can inspire others to keep going, no matter what obstacles they face.
Best wishes!
~Kimberlee
Kimberlee Ferrell shares: Letting the Words Flow
Welcome back, Kimberlee! I always tell my readers: Never give up on your dreams, work toward them… and that’s just what you’re doing: working toward them, so you keep on going. Don’t give up!
I know from my own personal experience here lately how hard things can be, but like you, I know writing is my calling, and I WILL stick with it.
When times get tough and you feel like giving up or just need some comfort and inspiration, open your Bible to Psalms or Proverbs and begin reading. That’s where I turn when times are really tough. Then when I’m done reading and my spirits are higher, I talk to the Lord.
Keep writing, and may 2010 bring you good health, happiness, success and many blessings!
Big hugs (sounds like you need one),
Misti Sandefur
Thank you Misti! I’m glad to be back.
I think 2010 is going to be a much better year all around. I hope your 2010 turns out fabulous as well.
((Hugs))
~Kimberlee
Kimberlee Ferrell shares: Letting the Words Flow
I’ve no doubt that you will, Kimberlee!
Hi Kimberlee,
It sound like you have risen from adversity. How we re-invent ourselves as our lives evolve. Congratulations for finding your greatest desires and sticking with them. Even if it did take you on a detour to get there.
I’m sure the swings and circles of life are what add to the depth of our soul with all the events of our journey.
May the blessings of 2010 and beyond, bring you love, light and happiness.
Cheers
Stephanie
Thank you Stephanie! I have a saying, “All roads lead to Rome.” No matter what path we take in life, we will get where we’re going! Some ways are just easier than others.
I hope 2010 is wonderful for you as well!
~Kimberlee
Kimberlee Ferrell shares: Letting the Words Flow