Five Things to Consider When Choosing Writing as a Profession
Choosing writing as a profession can be incredibly fulfilling, offering a unique blend of creativity, self-expression, and intellectual challenge. However, it’s important to recognise the realities and challenges that come with it. Before leaping, there is a need to evaluate several key factors to ensure you’re ready for the demands and nuances of this career path.
One of the most essential considerations is the balance between passion and practicality. While many are drawn to writing out of love for the craft, it is critical to assess whether choosing to be a writer can provide financial stability. Writing is often passion-driven, but sustaining a career as a writer requires more than enthusiasm. It is therefore essential to explore whether the niche offers viable income opportunities. In many cases, aspiring writers have to diversify their work or find additional sources of income to make ends meet, especially in the early stages of their careers. Freelance writers, novelists, and even journalists may face periods of inconsistency in terms of work or payment, so being pragmatic about your financial expectations is essential.
Another factor is identifying your specialisation or niche. Writing is a broad field encompassing genres like fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting, technical writing, among others. To succeed, it is important to carve out a specific niche where your skills and interests align. Specialising allows you to focus on honing your craft and developing expertise in a particular area, making you more marketable and competitive. This also allows you to build a portfolio that resonates with potential clients or employers, who are often seeking writers with a distinct voice or expertise in certain subject areas.
Skills and training also play a pivotal role in determining your success as a writer. Writing, though often viewed as a natural talent, is a skill that requires continuous refinement. You need to master various aspects of the craft, such as research, editing, and proofreading. Additionally, staying informed about industry trends and evolving writing tools can help you stay ahead of the curve. Formal training or participation in workshops and courses can sharpen your abilities and open new doors in your career. Moreover, learning the business side of writing, such as negotiating contracts and understanding publishing processes, is equally important.
Time management and discipline are critical for a writer’s survival. Unlike traditional office jobs, writing is often a solitary pursuit that requires strong self-discipline. As a writer, you need to manage your time effectively, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects without the oversight of a boss or structured environment. Procrastination can be a huge obstacle, so cultivating the habit of writing regularly and staying organised is crucial. A well-maintained routine is often the difference between a prolific writer and one who struggles to complete projects.
Finally, resilience and the ability to handle criticism are non-negotiable traits for anyone pursuing writing professionally. The art of writing can feel deeply personal, and sharing your work opens you up to critique and rejection. Whether it’s feedback from editors, reviews from readers, or rejection from publishers, being able to take criticism constructively will help you grow. Developing resilience and a thick skin is necessary to persist through setbacks and refine your craft with each piece of feedback.
