Writing is a time-honored profession that has not only withstood the test of time, but it has also grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. Thanks to the internet and the increased demand for content, there are now more opportunities than ever before for freelance writers to earn a living by writing for money. There are numerous benefits to being a freelance writer, such as being able to control your work schedule, being able to work from home, and more. Yet there are also some drawbacks that should be explored before pursuing freelance writing as a career.

A Real Job

One of the most common complaints that seasoned freelance writers have about their job is that it is a career option few take seriously. From time to time, most freelance writers have heard a rude comment about their lack of working in a real job. Even more tactful acquaintances may have alluded to the possibility that a freelance writer may one day go get a real job and give up writing as a career. Of course, seasoned freelance writers know that this is a job that isn’t like others. There generally are no overbearing bosses or annoying co-workers to contend with, although you may have the occasional client who is difficult to please. You also know that while your schedule is flexible, you do have to work a full work week if you want to earn full-time income.

No Skill Required

It is also common for freelance writers to be asked frequently how they stumbled into this line of work, and more often how someone else may get started in the profession. Friends and family as well as those new acquaintances you meet all seem to have the desire to be a freelance writer, and they all want to take a stab at it. There is no question about the skill required to actually write pieces that other people would consider paying money for. Instead, many people seem to have the basic mentality of, “Well, I can write and do your job, too.” Many freelance writers know many people who have tried to mimic their own efforts and who just haven’t had the skill and drive required to be successful at the job. The fact is that in order to be successful in this line of work, you not only have to write well, but you also have to write quickly. You can spend all day perfecting a $10 article, but at the end of the day you’ve only made $10. Freelance writers have to write that $10 article plus many more over the course of a day to earn a living.

Working From Home

When you work in an office and spend long hours away from the house all day, nothing seems like it would be better than to work from home. Many freelance writers really do enjoy the ability to work from home. Not having to commute to work or deal with bosses and co-workers each day is a benefit that is easy to take advantage of. Yet working from home isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be. Working from home can be isolating, as you often spend long hours working without speaking to another person. When others are home, it is easy to be distracted and lose focus. There are also so many things that may draw your attention away from work such as chores that need to be done, errands that need to be run, or even a dog that wants you to talk him out for a walk.

While freelance writing does have its downsides that most don’t consider, it nonetheless is a fabulous profession. Those who have the skill, the drive, the focus, and thick skin can find a way to make a wonderful living as a freelance writer.