Four years ago I became unemployed. I quickly discovered that businesses were receiving about 400 resumes for each job posting. I realized then that finding a job in this market was not going to be easy. I also realized that I was not going to survive on unemployment. This was the first time I had ever not had a job, and I made the decision not to be dependent upon the local job market. I decided I would use my education as a catalyst, and find a means to overcome the job market. The most promising prospect was being a website content provider to online companies.
What I have discovered is how much better being a writer is for me than working in a corporate setting. I worked for 29 years in a job that was doable, but that I did not love. There are so many delightful benefits to being a writer that I never even considered. The first thing that I realized was that I was no longer tied to an alarm clock. I go to bed when I want, and I get up when I want. I can even take naps, whenever I want. You don’t find this sort of lollipop in a corporate package. The benefits of being a writer are not just about sleeping—they are more revolutionary than sleeping. I have time to breathe fresh air and smell the roses. In fact, I have total control over my own schedule. I have total control over my work load. I do not have to take on extra work because someone else went on vacation. I can go to a doctors appointment without having to ask anyone. If the kids are sick, I am home to take care of them without losing work. I have the luxury of working when I want to, and doing other things accordingly.
Being a writer is not for everyone. It takes a lot of self discipline. It takes a willingness to learn and grow. You are in charge of developing your skills and honing your craft. My success as a writer is dependent upon the quality of my work. No other job has allowed me to be 100% in control of my success. Truthfully, this is a job that I love. Success does not happen overnight, but it will happen. In a way, I am thankful for becoming unemployed. It has allowed me to put my education to use in a very positive way. It has allowed me to realize the freedom to enjoy life.
Because I am a website content provider, I am able to work from any location that has Wi-Fi. That ability has allowed me to reduce a lot of outgoing expense, such as child care. There are certain tax benefits too. Given all that I am able to save, and the fact that I have grown my business over the years, I am able to make nearly as much money as I did at the top of my career. The difference is that my quality of life has improved a great deal. I no longer have to commute to work. I no longer have to spend hard-earned cash on a work wardrobe, and I get to take naps.
David S is a freelance writer available on WriterAccess, a marketplace where clients and expert writers connect for assignments.
