She Strengthens

The Unromantic Reality of Becoming a Full-Time Writer

As I embarked on my writing journey, I was naive about the financial realities of the profession. I made incorrect assumptions based on social media posts from my favorite writers, and I wasn’t earning a impressive salary, so it didn’t seem like I had much to strive for. However, I’ve come to realize that some writers are indeed well-paid, and I’m grateful for the writing jobs I love that compensate me fairly.

The Leap of Faith

My story is about the day I took the plunge and became a full-time writer. After years of freelancing and contributing for free, I was desperate to take the next step. I wanted to call myself a “writer” without feeling like I was living an unattainable dream. When the opportunity to work at a company offering 30 hours/week arose, I took it without hesitation. I was aware that the pay was low, but I needed a stepping stone, and this was it.

The Harsh Reality

Eight months later, I’m still working at this job, and I hate it just as much as I did on day one. The pay hasn’t changed, and I feel like aspiring writers often have a black-and-white view of the writing world: you’re either getting paid or you’re not. But the truth is, there are ups and downs, and sometimes you start from the bottom. This writing job is the very bottom.

A Call to Action

I’m not afraid to say that I feel above working at a company that prioritizes profits over people. They pay lip service to fair compensation while exploiting employees by limiting hours and denying benefits. It’s a company that demands high-quality work in a short amount of time without providing adequate support. I believe every writer deserves better.

Valuable Lessons Learned

If you’re an aspiring writer waiting for your big break, here’s my advice: question everything, don’t make assumptions based on social media, and seek honest advice from experienced writers. Becoming a writer is an attainable goal, and I would never discourage someone from pursuing their dreams. However, be aware of the potential pitfalls and don’t be afraid to speak out against unfair treatment.

Honesty is the Best Policy

I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who have been brutally honest with me, and I appreciate their candor. I want to pass on that honesty to others. There are many companies that don’t treat writers well, and it’s essential to be aware of these pitfalls. I may be contributing to this article anonymously, but I hope my truth will resonate with others.

The Bottom Line

I make $15/hour babysitting, and it’s a harsh reminder of the value placed on writing. I’m still working at this company, but I’m planning my escape. I’ve come to realize that it won’t make me any less of a writer to pursue alternative income streams. It’s time to build my confidence and take control of my writing career.