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Finding your Writing Rhythm


I always knew I had a penchant for writing but had no idea what life as a freelance writer would look like when I decided to journey down that path.  I could always find my way around a paragraph or ‘turn of phrase’ but it had always been for someone else while I was collecting a monthly paycheck for doing it.  Writing always took up a huge chunk of time throughout my PR career, whether it was press releases and company profiles, letters and memos, scripts or speeches.  All I know is that I was never so happy as when I had a writing project that would keep me at my desk, crafting the best messages and using the most impactful words I could find to reach our audience. 

For three years now I have been freelance copy writing for a variety of companies and industries and have been thoroughly enjoying it.  I have also interspersed writing with conducting writing workshops and communications training.  I will continue to do so as my expat journey continues, as it’s the most portable career around.  But I have found another path with very new direction leading me to book writing and editing.  I hope that I can do both simultaneously!  I have my first book contract deadline looming with Summertime Publishing (I’ll share more on the editing and publishing process as I go through it) and am continuing to work with just a couple regular copywriting clients and… So far, so good!  It’s great variety and both keep me motivated to write every day.  Since I’ve been freelancing I wake up every morning, very happy about the day ahead because I know I’ll be writing.

What keeps you writing?

Comments

linda@adventuresinexpatland.com said…
Definitely want to hear more as you share your journey. You're in good hands with Jo and Summertime!
10 July 2011 at 13:11
Katie Foster said…
Having fought the PR writing "crunches" and deadlines for more than 25 years, I couldn't agree with you more. Freelance writing has a "settled" pace that allows you to investigate and discover many interesting avenues as you savour the story line. I will always appreciate the encouragement you gave me to pursue my freelance writing career. I agree, my best days are when I wake up and my schedule calls for me to write all day long. I can't wait to see what I come up with!! www.arabiantalesandotheramazingadventures.blogspot.com
11 July 2011 at 19:10
Philip Verghese 'Ariel' said…
Nice to be here. This is really an encouraging thought, thanks for sharing your valuable experience in the writing field.
Keep writing, keep inform
best
Philip
13 July 2011 at 02:21
Anne Louise O'Connell said…
Thanks for all the encouragement! Katie, I'm happy to have been a good example for you to follow (I'm thoroughly enjoying your stories so am definitely a beneficiary). Linda, Jo's been awesome and we're in the final edits. I'll keep you all posted.
2 September 2011 at 22:32
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