Being a Freelance Writer: The Freedom in Freelance Writing

There is a lot of freedom in freelance writing! Being, or becoming a freelance writer may appear to be a luxury that only a few can afford, as it can be like any other kind of self employment, relatively ludicrous initially, at least as far as potential income is concerned.

What is freelance writing all about?

Many people go through life wishing for the opportunity to do what they want to do, and one of their aspirations may be to write. Life experiences are often such that these people do have something worthwhile to write about, and there are potentially those who would like to read what they write. For anyone seriously contemplating becoming a freelance writer, the readership field is wide open. Its scope is as unlimited as the potential freelance writer's imagination.

Developing freelance writing skills comes naturally to some, but not necessarily to others. Any freelance writer can write reams, but there is no guarantee that this work will be purchased. In other words, the market for it has to be located. There is no doubt about there being an actual market out there for the work of freelance writers, as it does exist. Some freelance writers are lucky and tap into a viable market immediately. For others, it takes time to find the best place to promote and publish one's work.

Being a freelance writer does have its advantages, because there is the opportunity to build a vast repertoire of writing, in a wide variety of genres. The freelance writer has the freedom to choose what he or she writes about and the format it takes, as well as whether or not, it is published. Not bound by continual employer obligation, or being hired as an employee, he or she is able to follow his or her own interests with respect to writing whatever, or whenever. Working hours are distinctly his or her own, unless he or she chooses to accept assignments with specific deadlines that must be met to be paid.

The initial task of the freelancer is that of learning how to write and submit manuscripts that are suitable for publication. That may involve taking courses in writing and editing, developing computer website and content publication skills, as well as learning how to market one's own work. Most freelance writers are writers, not marketers. Initially, many freelance writers set up their own websites or blogs. 

Learning professional marketing skills increases one's likelihood of being able to profit financially from freelance writing. Other viable options may include finding a specific agent who is able to do carry out that task. An established website may seek content from freelance writers, or a book publisher may be looking for specific kinds of manuscripts, as well.

Freelance writing is a continual process that meets the freelancer's basic need to write, in accordance with the inspiration of his or her muse, thoughts and ideas and potential career plans. No two freelancers have exactly the same kinds of aspirations; nor do they need to have. Freedom of literary expression is invariably the key to freelance writing.