Welcome to Writer Rants–where every Friday a writer just lets loose on whatever the heck is bugging her this week. Enjoy.
I am a freelance writer. Today, I may be working for you, writing your oh so important content about kitchen cabinet installation in Knoxville, Tennessee. But, next week? I may be writing for your biggest rival. I will do it if the money is right. It’s not that I have no scruples, it’s the simple fact that in the “Game of Thrones” world, I’d be the sellsword—not the knight in shining armor.
Follow the Money
When I first began writing, I had the idea that I would specialize in writing reviews and guides for video games. I actually had quite a bit of work in that area and it paid off—to an extent. However, I did not have the work to keep me busy full time only writing about that topic. I became a true free agent. For a few years there, I’d write about any topic that paid the bills. Writing about hard-core technology is NOT my cup of tea, but for a while, it was the best paying work I could find, so I did it.
Saying No
As a writer, I’ve grown. I realized that my work is worth more than I initially charged. Because of this, I have had to let a few clients go. We parted on good terms, and in many cases, I have helped them find another writer to fill my shoes. As a sellsword, I can say “no” to work that does not interest me. If I chose to be a knight, I would be stuck writing whatever my patron needed. While there is nothing wrong with that, it does not fit my current career focus.
The Traveling Swordsman… or Writer
I choose the freelance life because it gives me freedom. As I work here and work there, I can take some time and see the world around me. That’s something else I have in common with a mercenary. I can come and go as I please. While I am always up front with my clients, I do take vacations and I will need some weekends off. Remember, when you hire a freelancer, you’re hiring us just a piece or project at a time. Don’t be upset when we need to wander.
There could be a time in my future where I choose to become a “knight” or an in-house writer for a firm. In fact, if the price is right, I would consider it today. However, for now, I’m happy with my life as the mercenary of the written word—the freelancer.
Tracy S is a content writer and blogger who loves working with real estate and home improvement clients. In her spare time she enjoys playing pool, spending time with her husband and daughter, making improvements around her new home and learning to speak “cat”.
