"Writing is a prestigious profession which puts one right in the center of the world, and to remain on top, one has to work really hard, the aim being a good and original theme, simplicity in expression and the use of the irreplaceable word."
That's from Nelson Mandela; I think they're words he wrote to his daughter, Zindzi, in 1977 (but please, correct me if I'm wrong).
I frequently hear chatter amongst freelancers about whether their job is perceived as a real job.
I think the misperception that freelance writing is not a real job stems from the fact that (1) many people journal (or blog) admittedly as a means of self-expression or self-analysis only and (2) the creative, artistic, romantic, 'write when the muse hits' side of writing prevails as the reigning archetype of a freelancer.
Can you blame people for being unfamiliar with the nuances of unearthing an idea, coming up with an angle, preparing a pitch, researching a story, revising drafts until you're seeing red pen in your sleep -- then waking up and doing it all over again with another idea -- when new (wannabe) freelancers don't even get that aspect of the job themselves?
Thankfully there are writers who have earned their due respect. Earn it yourself by following Mandela's advice. Aim for:
- A good and original theme
- Simplicity in expression
- The use of the irreplaceable word
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