Some writers know in grade school that writing is what they want to do when they grow up. I was never like that. Even today, with close to 15 years under my belt as a freelance copywriter, I still don't consider myself a writer.
I think of myself as an editorial specialist. But, I do write and get paid for it, so I guess that makes me a writer. Following are three ways that writing has changed my life.
1. Freedom: As in, freedom from fear. When I started freelancing in the early 90s, I never dreamed it would turn into what it has.
I started out as a freelance copy editor, proofreader and editor. I didn't start taking on writing projects until a few years into my freelance career. But, once I realized that, "Hey, I can make a real living from this," it gave me a freedom I didn't realize I would come to cherish until years later.
Once you realize that your power to make a living lies totally and completely in your hands, you walk a little taller, believe in yourself a little deeper and work harder to keep it so.
I know that as long as my brain doesn't turn to mush (I have to work hard to keep this from happening some days!) and I have use of my hands, I can work. There's a comfort in that.
2. Interest: As in, interest in the world around me. I'm pretty curious by nature and I've always been an avid reader. When you write for a living though, it takes on a new kind of clarity.
I listen to the news for story ideas; I listen to tales from my friends for different twists on ordinary topics; I take note of my surroundings with eyes open for the next great article.
3. Question: As in, question the world around you. Because I write a lot, I also research a lot. I know that the twist of one phrase can give a whole new meaning to a story, an article, a definition.
Take the war going on in Iraq. When we hear that over 3,000 soldiers have been killed since it began, you might think, in Vietnam, over 58,000 died -- this war's not as bad.
But, when you hear that over 10,000 have been wounded - many seriously, that implies a different kind of war; a different view of what's going on.
So, I question a lot of what I hear, read and view. Is this the whole story? Were there some facts left out? Some "half-facts" put in?
The written word, especially in our technologically advanced world, is a powerful medium. Indeed, the pen [keyboard] is mightier than the sword - and all writers would do well to remember that the next time they sit down to write.
How has writing changed your life?
May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of http://inkwelleditorial.com/: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to http://inkwelleditorial.com/ to register now.
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