I’m not one to jump through hoops. I try to avoid them. In my professional career, I haven’t always had the required experience, but I’ve always had determination. And I still had that determination--and then some--when I started to freelance.
When I started freelancing after taking a break from working to take care of my grandson and help my husband acclimate to life after retirement, I didn’t do any planning. It never occurred to me that I wouldn’t succeed as a freelancer. That doesn’t mean I did everything right; it just means that I tried. It never occurred to me that I couldn’t do it. The word can't isn't in my vocabulary.
I don’t want to give you the impression that I didn’t have the skills or experience that I needed for a career as a freelance proofreader. I have the required experience. I have been a writer, researcher, and an English teacher. I just wasn’t prepared. I wasn’t prepared emotionally, and I wasn’t prepared as an entrepreneur. I didn’t know what to expect. I really hadn’t thought about starting a business; I just did it. I didn’t have a business plan. I didn’t set goals. I just decided that I wanted to freelance.
In looking back, it’s amazing that I was successful. I didn’t have a professional business letterhead. I didn’t have business cards. I had chutzpah. When I was trying to decide if there was room for another editor, I went through the Colorado Springs telephone book and looked for the business listings for editor. Three businesses were listed. I thought that since there were only three listings, there was room for me. That was certainly naiveté on my part, but that didn’t stop me.
I made phone calls to all three editing businesses; only one person returned my call. Even so, I was excited because I would have the opportunity to talk to someone who actually worked as an editor. We played some telephone tag before we finally connected. That was okay. I was willing to wait. It was enough for me that I would have the opportunity to talk to someone who was a bonefide editing professional.
Getting the chance to talk to an editor was important because it would give me the chance to ask all the questions a person might want to ask before beginning a new career. I asked why she chose an editing career. I asked how long it took her to become a success, and I asked who her clients were, and what she charged. Yes, I asked her what she charged. I needed a starting point. I needed to know if I could make a living and pay my bills as a freelancer.
Our conversation, even though brief, gave me the courage I needed to continue. The person I interviewed didn’t sugarcoat her answers. She told me that there would be difficulties. She said that it would take work and perseverance on my part, but she said that there was definitely a need for editors. This was all I needed to hear.
After our conversation, I thought all I needed to do was let businesses know that I was ready to proofread. I thought that they would beat a path to my door. The editor I spoke to told me that even though businesses need my help, they would be the hardest to convince. I didn’t listen. I thought I could overcome any obstacle through perseverance. Even today, I believe perseverance is the key to success.
After speaking with the editor, I did a bit of research and composed a list of publishers to call in Colorado Springs. Yes, a list of publishers to call. Remember that at this point, I thought the sky was the limit. I thought that all I had to do was make the call and get the job. I really believed that no one would turn me down. I was right.
My first freelance proofreading job came after I had the guts to call a local publisher on my list. I didn’t have a name. I didn’t know whom to ask for, and I didn’t know what to expect. But I did have the courage to make the call. I decided to make the call because I didn’t have an excuse not to, and I followed through. The important thing here is that I didn’t listen to the little voice in my head tell me that I couldn’t or that I would fail. I made the call and actually spoke to someone in an editing department. I surprised myself, and it turned out well.
From the beginning of the conversation, there was a rapport. I don’t remember the conversation. I don’t remember what was said. I do remember that I hadn’t actually prepared first. I didn’t think about being turned down. I just remember talking to someone about the possibility of freelancing as a proofreader. The next thing I knew, the person I was talking to asked if I could come to the publishing office for a more in-depth interview. I almost jumped through the phone. Of course I could. I arranged to meet with the person the same day.
The interview went well, and I had my first proofreading project before I walked out the door. I was elated. This was my chance to prove myself. I was on my way. In looking back, I was wrong. It was a beginning, but I still had a lot to learn. I earned only a little money for my efforts, and the publisher published only four books a year. There was no chance of steady work, and I really didn’t understand the proofreader’s role in the editing process. I thought that a proofreader did what I had done as an English teacher. I thought they just commented on what the author had written and read the manuscript for grammar and mechanics. I didn’t make a distinction between proofreading and editing. Now I understand the difference, but I didn’t when I first started proofreading.
My first proofreading assignment didn't lead to more projects from that client, but I didn't give up. If anything, it made me want more than ever to continue as a freelancer--because it was so enjoyable. However, as I was looking for another project and client, I took the time to do the research I should have done before the first publisher hired me. I read everything I could check out of the library on proofreading and copyediting. Most of the books were outdated. That didn’t matter.
The first book on editing I read from cover to cover was Copyediting & Proofreading For Dummies by Suzanne Gilad. It was my Bible. It discusses editing on a level that any editing outsider can comprehend. It was basic but it provided some of the information that I should have taken the time to learn before deciding to freelance. I have since discovered other books; one of the best books for proofreaders is Mark My Words by Peggy Smith. Professional proofreaders wrote both books, but Mark My Words goes into more detail and provides exercises as well as quizzes for those who really want to improve their proofreading skills.
I haven’t stopped learning. Even today, I try to review my skills or work an exercise or two in Mark My Words when I have a lull between projects. One of the things I like about freelancing is the opportunity to continue to improve my skills. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I also know that I am better today than I was when I first started proofreading.
In looking back intellectually, I probably would do things differently if I could have a do-over. But acknowledging how I operate, I probably would have started my freelance proofreading career in exactly the same way. As I said at the beginning of this post, I’m not one for jumping through hoops. I learn more by doing.
My first experience as a freelance proofreader gave me the courage to pick up the phone and call the next publisher on my list. After several phone calls and months of waiting, I got that job too. The months in between editing jobs gave me the opportunity to get business cards and a business letterhead and do some marketing.
My second job as a freelancer provided an opportunity for some on-the-job training. It gave me the chance to do some substantive editing, some research, and some analysis and to learn that publishers are as individual as the freelancers they hire. It also reinforced my determination to continue freelancing. Everything that I've experienced in my short freelancing career has taught me more than ever that it isn’t the destination; it’s the journey.
Next: Marketing on a shoestring
Monday, April 6, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
All We Really Have Is Time
When I was younger, in either high school or my freshman year of college, I was always in a hurry. I remember complaining to my dad about a required class that I needed to take. I was annoyed because I thought the class was a waste. I thought it would be a better idea to spend my time taking a class I was interested in, not one that would make me a well-rounded student. I remember my dad asking, “What’s your rush? Why are you in such a hurry? One more class isn’t really going to make a difference. Besides, you will probably benefit in the long run.”
I thought he was crazy. I didn’t agree with him and thought he didn’t understand me. Looking back, I see that he was right. And while he made these comments when I was too young to understand what he was saying, his words are important for those who are thinking about a career in freelancing.
We’re in Such a Hurry
When I started freelancing three years ago, I was in a hurry to make a name for myself. I spent more time thinking about the time I spent marketing my services than appreciating my accomplishments. I thought others would consider me a failure and would judge me by the number of cover letters and resumes I sent. I kept track of the number of replies I didn’t receive instead of the amount of replies I did. I saw the glass as half empty.
In looking back, I should have focused on the positive. I should have been happy with the replies I received. I should have continued marketing to increase the number of positive responses I received, not because I was fixated on the number of packets I sent. I should have beefed up my cover letter, focused on my progress, and been happy with the baby steps.
If my slow start taught me anything, it’s “true and steady wins the race.” It never occurred to me that I would have obstacles to overcome. I didn’t know that the best way to get your toe in the publishing door was by working as an assistant. I never considered the time factor when considering freelancing as a new career. I didn’t even think about how much time it would take to become successful. I just thought it was enough to have drive and determination. I had the entrepreneurial spirit. I thought that was enough.
Use Your Time Wisely
When you are just beginning a new job or even a new business, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Maybe you need to meet new people or maybe you have new tasks to learn. The secret is not to feel like you will never master the new or unknown. The secret is to take one task at a time. Don’t think about what you don’t know. Focus on what you do. Take the time you need to fill in the blanks.
Prioritize
Decide what you need to do first. For me, I talked to successful freelancers. I asked them several questions just to find out how they became successful. I loved talking to them. Each person has a great story. Each one told me that their success didn’t come over night. They shared some of their secrets with me. I learned a lot from our conversations.
Do Your Research
Spend time every week researching. You can research potential clients, successful entrepreneurs, or even research what it takes to be successful. You do not have to spend more time than you can afford, but you do need to spend at least an hour a week. Again, slow and steady is more important than letting yourself become overwhelmed by the amount of research you need to do. Break the research down into manageable tasks.
Take Time to Network
Find groups or individuals that you can talk to. People who are like-minded, people who share your goals. Find a mentor, someone who can show you the ropes. The time you spend networking will definitely pay off in the long run. You will feel that you belong.
Write Your Cover Letter
Take some time to write a great cover letter. Think about what you want to say, make sure to include what you can do for your potential clients. Then, in the final stages, have a successful editor help you edit your letter. Write the letter in stages.
Revise Your Resume
Think about revising your resume. Don’t be afraid to get help writing your resume if you need it. Rewriting the resume may be your hardest task. Don’t get discouraged or give up. Take time to compare your resume with the resumes of other freelancers. As with writing the cover letter, it may be best to write your resume in stages.
Begin Your Marketing
Take time to think about your business cards and letterhead. Decide who you are. Think about the image that you want to present. You don’t need to spend a fortune on your first business cards or letterhead. You can find Web sites that will design them and print them for you. Your design can change over time.
Improve Your Skills
No matter how busy I am during the week, I always take some time to learn something new. I read, work a few proofreading exercises to sharpen my skills, and take the time to learn from those who know more than I do. Learning is one of my lifelong passions. Instead of focusing on what I don’t know, I marvel at what I have learned. These past three years have given me the opportunity to learn because I want to learn, not because I have to learn.
Take the Time to Succeed
Even three years and some later, I still believe that if you have the desire and determination to succeed, you will. As a friend and mentor has told me several times, it will happen if you truly believe in yourself and believe that it will. When I get a little down or depressed, I evaluate my progress and count my accomplishments. I haven’t accomplished all that I want to yet, but I am on my way.
I no longer focus on the amount of time I spend marketing my services or improving my skills. Instead, I keep track of my successes. I have learned to value every step, every small accomplishment. These have become more valuable to me than keeping track of my failures.
Time Is Just a Number
I still have a long way to go. Now, however, I am willing to take the time that I need to become a success. I am no longer in a hurry. I have discovered that each day teaches me something new about me or about freelancing. This, to me, is a testament to time well spent.
As you begin your freelancing career, don’t become a slave to time. Instead, let time work for you. Focus on your accomplishments, not on the amount of time that it will take you to achieve success. If you truly want to succeed in freelancing, you must be more than willing to spend the amount of time needed to succeed. After all, time is just a number.
I thought he was crazy. I didn’t agree with him and thought he didn’t understand me. Looking back, I see that he was right. And while he made these comments when I was too young to understand what he was saying, his words are important for those who are thinking about a career in freelancing.
We’re in Such a Hurry
When I started freelancing three years ago, I was in a hurry to make a name for myself. I spent more time thinking about the time I spent marketing my services than appreciating my accomplishments. I thought others would consider me a failure and would judge me by the number of cover letters and resumes I sent. I kept track of the number of replies I didn’t receive instead of the amount of replies I did. I saw the glass as half empty.
In looking back, I should have focused on the positive. I should have been happy with the replies I received. I should have continued marketing to increase the number of positive responses I received, not because I was fixated on the number of packets I sent. I should have beefed up my cover letter, focused on my progress, and been happy with the baby steps.
If my slow start taught me anything, it’s “true and steady wins the race.” It never occurred to me that I would have obstacles to overcome. I didn’t know that the best way to get your toe in the publishing door was by working as an assistant. I never considered the time factor when considering freelancing as a new career. I didn’t even think about how much time it would take to become successful. I just thought it was enough to have drive and determination. I had the entrepreneurial spirit. I thought that was enough.
Use Your Time Wisely
When you are just beginning a new job or even a new business, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Maybe you need to meet new people or maybe you have new tasks to learn. The secret is not to feel like you will never master the new or unknown. The secret is to take one task at a time. Don’t think about what you don’t know. Focus on what you do. Take the time you need to fill in the blanks.
Prioritize
Decide what you need to do first. For me, I talked to successful freelancers. I asked them several questions just to find out how they became successful. I loved talking to them. Each person has a great story. Each one told me that their success didn’t come over night. They shared some of their secrets with me. I learned a lot from our conversations.
Do Your Research
Spend time every week researching. You can research potential clients, successful entrepreneurs, or even research what it takes to be successful. You do not have to spend more time than you can afford, but you do need to spend at least an hour a week. Again, slow and steady is more important than letting yourself become overwhelmed by the amount of research you need to do. Break the research down into manageable tasks.
Take Time to Network
Find groups or individuals that you can talk to. People who are like-minded, people who share your goals. Find a mentor, someone who can show you the ropes. The time you spend networking will definitely pay off in the long run. You will feel that you belong.
Write Your Cover Letter
Take some time to write a great cover letter. Think about what you want to say, make sure to include what you can do for your potential clients. Then, in the final stages, have a successful editor help you edit your letter. Write the letter in stages.
Revise Your Resume
Think about revising your resume. Don’t be afraid to get help writing your resume if you need it. Rewriting the resume may be your hardest task. Don’t get discouraged or give up. Take time to compare your resume with the resumes of other freelancers. As with writing the cover letter, it may be best to write your resume in stages.
Begin Your Marketing
Take time to think about your business cards and letterhead. Decide who you are. Think about the image that you want to present. You don’t need to spend a fortune on your first business cards or letterhead. You can find Web sites that will design them and print them for you. Your design can change over time.
Improve Your Skills
No matter how busy I am during the week, I always take some time to learn something new. I read, work a few proofreading exercises to sharpen my skills, and take the time to learn from those who know more than I do. Learning is one of my lifelong passions. Instead of focusing on what I don’t know, I marvel at what I have learned. These past three years have given me the opportunity to learn because I want to learn, not because I have to learn.
Take the Time to Succeed
Even three years and some later, I still believe that if you have the desire and determination to succeed, you will. As a friend and mentor has told me several times, it will happen if you truly believe in yourself and believe that it will. When I get a little down or depressed, I evaluate my progress and count my accomplishments. I haven’t accomplished all that I want to yet, but I am on my way.
I no longer focus on the amount of time I spend marketing my services or improving my skills. Instead, I keep track of my successes. I have learned to value every step, every small accomplishment. These have become more valuable to me than keeping track of my failures.
Time Is Just a Number
I still have a long way to go. Now, however, I am willing to take the time that I need to become a success. I am no longer in a hurry. I have discovered that each day teaches me something new about me or about freelancing. This, to me, is a testament to time well spent.
As you begin your freelancing career, don’t become a slave to time. Instead, let time work for you. Focus on your accomplishments, not on the amount of time that it will take you to achieve success. If you truly want to succeed in freelancing, you must be more than willing to spend the amount of time needed to succeed. After all, time is just a number.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Consider your family when deciding to freelance
Okay, you’ve made the decision to tackle freelance proofreading and editing. Congratulations!! Give yourself a few minutes, or even days, to let this accomplishment sink in. Just deciding to take on a new venture can be exhausting and stressful. Then after you’ve made the commitment to begin this new adventure, think about how your decision will affect your loved ones.
You also need to look at what you contribute to your family, or around the house, and consider how this decision will affect schedule. Before we talk about the changes that will take place, let’s talk about how your decision to freelance will affect those close to you.
Family is important
Let’s think first about how your decision will affect your relationship with your significant other. If you are dating, it would be best to sit down with your boyfriend or girlfriend and talk about what your decision means to your relationship. You will have to give this a lot of thought before you sit down and talk about it, and you will need to be extremely honest with yourself. The biggest sacrifice is going to be time. You simply won’t have the time to spend with your boyfriend or girlfriend, especially if you are using time on the weekends to research contacts and market yourself. Some people won’t mind, others may find this simply unbearable. Consider the fact that your decision may cause your relationship to end. I am not saying that this will happen; I am just saying that you need to consider everything before discussing your decision with your significant other.
If your family consists of just you and your husband, or wife, take the time to think about how your decision to freelance will affect them. Think about both the positives and negatives. If your spouse is used to a warm meal and a clean house, with dinner on the table when they get home from work, you may have to ask for help in these areas. If your budget can afford it, you may even want to consider having someone come in to help with the cleaning a few hours a week. If your spouse is accustomed to some quiet time or alone time with you, you will have to schedule the time in. You may even have to set up a date night, just to make sure that your spouse knows that they are still an important part of your life.
If your spouse wants you to sit quietly while you both watch TV, but you would rather use that time to do some work, you will have to talk about these changes. This issue won’t be a problem after the initial start-up of your business because your spouse will get used to the working you. However before you dive into your new career, it is important for you to think about the changes that will take place because of your decision to freelance. Your relationship with your spouse depends on it.
After taking time to evaluate how your decision will affect your marriage, sit down and talk candidly about these changes. Before you sit down, contemplate their fears. Have suggestions ready that will answer their concerns. Most of all, listen. Don’t rush the time time you spend together talking about this. Take time to hear your spouse’s concerns. Give them time to consider what you are saying. Let them talk about how the changes will affect them. Then, working together, reach an agreement or a compromise.
Take time to reassure them that they are still extremely important to you. Tell them that you have thought about this and that you don’t take this decision lightly. Tell them what you plan to do, what actions are on the agenda, and ask them for their support. Talk about household chores, making dinner, laundry, and even your time together, talk about how your decision will affect that time. Ask your spouse to help you decide if freelancing is really for you.
I wish I had taken the time to discuss my decision with my husband before I decided to tackle my freelancing career. I think the discussion would have helped with a few of the misunderstandings that my husband and I have had in the past three years. I also think it’s a good idea to discuss your decision with your spouse before discussing your plans with the rest of your family. Your spouse will be able to help you assure the rest of your family that your decision is good for you and for them as well. Your spouse will also help you answer some of the questions your family will ask. They will be your support system from the beginning. A support system is extremely important as you set out on your new venture.
Don’t forget the kids
If you have a young child, you will have to consider how your decision to freelance will affect him/her. A child may not be a problem if he or she is a baby or a young toddler, but the child definitely becomes an issue if he or she is a preschooler. Preschoolers take a lot of time and attention. It isn’t easy to think or even work when a preschooler needs you. While you might think you can manage, it always seems that they don’t need you until you are on the telephone or sitting at your computer. If your family budget can afford it, you may have to consider childcare. You will be amazed at how much work you will be able to do in just two hours time. Since you are new to freelancing, you can decide just how many days a week you will need childcare. Childcare centers offer hourly as well as weekly rates, or you may be able to arrange some time for childcare with your parents or a few close friends, as long as you pay them back in kind for their help. You may also be able to count the childcare costs as a business expense. Don’t take my words as gospel. It would be best to check with your accountant or financial advisor first.
If the child has older siblings, childcare may not be a problem. Brothers and sisters can provide a little help during the day and may love the idea of playing and taking care of the little one for a few hours, especially if they receive praise or small rewards from you for doing so. Helping with their little brother or sister may make the older kids feel important. They can play with their little brother or sister, take care of snacks, or even watch a DVD with them. You might even want to involve the older kids in planning the activities. It is also important for everyone that all of this is taking place at home while you are there working. If anything happens, you will still be able to take care of the problem. It is also important for you to plan to work a few hours every evening after the kids go to bed. You can get a lot done in three or four hours every night when the house is quiet.
While older children can do a lot for you when taking care of the younger kids, their wants, and needs, also need consideration. If the kids are elementary school age, you will have free time during the day to devote to freelancing. Then when they come home from school, you will still have time to focus on them. This block of time that you can devote to freelancing will continue as they make their way through school. You will find that from the time they leave the house until they return, you will have approximately six hours to devote to your freelancing career. A lot can be accomplished in that amount of time every day if you devote that time solely to your business, not cleaning the house, doing the shopping, or any other task that is not associated with freelancing. This means that you can’t watch talk shows, talk endlessly on the phone, or find any other excuse not to focus on freelancing. It will take dedication on your part but if you truly want to be successful, you will use that time to your advantage.
The family meeting
After you have your spouse’s blessing, and have thought about how your decision will affect the kids, it’s time for a family meeting. Your kids will need assurance that their lives will go on as usual, that nothing will change. Older kids will love the idea. It means a little freedom for them. They will like the idea of you being busy and not so focused on them. Younger children will need reassurance that their lives will continue, as they know it. They need to know that you will be there for after school snacks, activities, and bedtime rituals. They will want to know that they can still go to the park, have friends over after school, and have the usual family weekends. If you have a baby or toddler, you will need to consider their needs, but your schedule will have to work around theirs. Thank heavens little ones have early bedtimes.
Use some of your brainstorming from the beginning of this blog to quiet your children’s’ fears. Your prepared thoughts will also let everyone know that you have put some real consideration into this, and that you don’t take this decision lightly. This might be a good time to point out some of the positive changes. However if it seems to be too much for everyone to take in all at once, which is likely, call another family meeting, or discuss a few things at a time during dinner. There is no real hurry here. It is more important that your kids, as well as your spouse, know that you have really thought this important decision through.
Last thoughts about childcare
If you have to set up some kind of childcare routine so you can concentrate on your business, so be it. Small children are forgiving and are happy to see you walk through that door. Don’t beat yourself up if you have to make that decision, just concentrate on the little ones when they come home. Remember, for all of your family it isn’t quantity time, it’s quality time. Learn to live in the moment you spend with them. Learn to focus on your business only during the time you have scheduled for business. This is going to be hard, especially as you begin your business. If you learn to focus on your business during business hours and not during family time, you will accomplish more and your family will not resent your decision to start freelancing.
What will my parents think?
If you need to tell your mom and dad about your decision to begin freelancing, tell them. Don’t worry about what they might think. After all, it’s your life. They will be proud of you as you prove yourself and grow your business. If you’re confident and believe that you will be successful, quietly become a success. After all, you have a lifetime to become what you dream of being. Right now, it’s enough that you have the entrepreneurial spirit. Take some time to celebrate that characteristic.
Next: You have involved your family members in your decision to freelance, now what?
You also need to look at what you contribute to your family, or around the house, and consider how this decision will affect schedule. Before we talk about the changes that will take place, let’s talk about how your decision to freelance will affect those close to you.
Family is important
Let’s think first about how your decision will affect your relationship with your significant other. If you are dating, it would be best to sit down with your boyfriend or girlfriend and talk about what your decision means to your relationship. You will have to give this a lot of thought before you sit down and talk about it, and you will need to be extremely honest with yourself. The biggest sacrifice is going to be time. You simply won’t have the time to spend with your boyfriend or girlfriend, especially if you are using time on the weekends to research contacts and market yourself. Some people won’t mind, others may find this simply unbearable. Consider the fact that your decision may cause your relationship to end. I am not saying that this will happen; I am just saying that you need to consider everything before discussing your decision with your significant other.
If your family consists of just you and your husband, or wife, take the time to think about how your decision to freelance will affect them. Think about both the positives and negatives. If your spouse is used to a warm meal and a clean house, with dinner on the table when they get home from work, you may have to ask for help in these areas. If your budget can afford it, you may even want to consider having someone come in to help with the cleaning a few hours a week. If your spouse is accustomed to some quiet time or alone time with you, you will have to schedule the time in. You may even have to set up a date night, just to make sure that your spouse knows that they are still an important part of your life.
If your spouse wants you to sit quietly while you both watch TV, but you would rather use that time to do some work, you will have to talk about these changes. This issue won’t be a problem after the initial start-up of your business because your spouse will get used to the working you. However before you dive into your new career, it is important for you to think about the changes that will take place because of your decision to freelance. Your relationship with your spouse depends on it.
After taking time to evaluate how your decision will affect your marriage, sit down and talk candidly about these changes. Before you sit down, contemplate their fears. Have suggestions ready that will answer their concerns. Most of all, listen. Don’t rush the time time you spend together talking about this. Take time to hear your spouse’s concerns. Give them time to consider what you are saying. Let them talk about how the changes will affect them. Then, working together, reach an agreement or a compromise.
Take time to reassure them that they are still extremely important to you. Tell them that you have thought about this and that you don’t take this decision lightly. Tell them what you plan to do, what actions are on the agenda, and ask them for their support. Talk about household chores, making dinner, laundry, and even your time together, talk about how your decision will affect that time. Ask your spouse to help you decide if freelancing is really for you.
I wish I had taken the time to discuss my decision with my husband before I decided to tackle my freelancing career. I think the discussion would have helped with a few of the misunderstandings that my husband and I have had in the past three years. I also think it’s a good idea to discuss your decision with your spouse before discussing your plans with the rest of your family. Your spouse will be able to help you assure the rest of your family that your decision is good for you and for them as well. Your spouse will also help you answer some of the questions your family will ask. They will be your support system from the beginning. A support system is extremely important as you set out on your new venture.
Don’t forget the kids
If you have a young child, you will have to consider how your decision to freelance will affect him/her. A child may not be a problem if he or she is a baby or a young toddler, but the child definitely becomes an issue if he or she is a preschooler. Preschoolers take a lot of time and attention. It isn’t easy to think or even work when a preschooler needs you. While you might think you can manage, it always seems that they don’t need you until you are on the telephone or sitting at your computer. If your family budget can afford it, you may have to consider childcare. You will be amazed at how much work you will be able to do in just two hours time. Since you are new to freelancing, you can decide just how many days a week you will need childcare. Childcare centers offer hourly as well as weekly rates, or you may be able to arrange some time for childcare with your parents or a few close friends, as long as you pay them back in kind for their help. You may also be able to count the childcare costs as a business expense. Don’t take my words as gospel. It would be best to check with your accountant or financial advisor first.
If the child has older siblings, childcare may not be a problem. Brothers and sisters can provide a little help during the day and may love the idea of playing and taking care of the little one for a few hours, especially if they receive praise or small rewards from you for doing so. Helping with their little brother or sister may make the older kids feel important. They can play with their little brother or sister, take care of snacks, or even watch a DVD with them. You might even want to involve the older kids in planning the activities. It is also important for everyone that all of this is taking place at home while you are there working. If anything happens, you will still be able to take care of the problem. It is also important for you to plan to work a few hours every evening after the kids go to bed. You can get a lot done in three or four hours every night when the house is quiet.
While older children can do a lot for you when taking care of the younger kids, their wants, and needs, also need consideration. If the kids are elementary school age, you will have free time during the day to devote to freelancing. Then when they come home from school, you will still have time to focus on them. This block of time that you can devote to freelancing will continue as they make their way through school. You will find that from the time they leave the house until they return, you will have approximately six hours to devote to your freelancing career. A lot can be accomplished in that amount of time every day if you devote that time solely to your business, not cleaning the house, doing the shopping, or any other task that is not associated with freelancing. This means that you can’t watch talk shows, talk endlessly on the phone, or find any other excuse not to focus on freelancing. It will take dedication on your part but if you truly want to be successful, you will use that time to your advantage.
The family meeting
After you have your spouse’s blessing, and have thought about how your decision will affect the kids, it’s time for a family meeting. Your kids will need assurance that their lives will go on as usual, that nothing will change. Older kids will love the idea. It means a little freedom for them. They will like the idea of you being busy and not so focused on them. Younger children will need reassurance that their lives will continue, as they know it. They need to know that you will be there for after school snacks, activities, and bedtime rituals. They will want to know that they can still go to the park, have friends over after school, and have the usual family weekends. If you have a baby or toddler, you will need to consider their needs, but your schedule will have to work around theirs. Thank heavens little ones have early bedtimes.
Use some of your brainstorming from the beginning of this blog to quiet your children’s’ fears. Your prepared thoughts will also let everyone know that you have put some real consideration into this, and that you don’t take this decision lightly. This might be a good time to point out some of the positive changes. However if it seems to be too much for everyone to take in all at once, which is likely, call another family meeting, or discuss a few things at a time during dinner. There is no real hurry here. It is more important that your kids, as well as your spouse, know that you have really thought this important decision through.
Last thoughts about childcare
If you have to set up some kind of childcare routine so you can concentrate on your business, so be it. Small children are forgiving and are happy to see you walk through that door. Don’t beat yourself up if you have to make that decision, just concentrate on the little ones when they come home. Remember, for all of your family it isn’t quantity time, it’s quality time. Learn to live in the moment you spend with them. Learn to focus on your business only during the time you have scheduled for business. This is going to be hard, especially as you begin your business. If you learn to focus on your business during business hours and not during family time, you will accomplish more and your family will not resent your decision to start freelancing.
What will my parents think?
If you need to tell your mom and dad about your decision to begin freelancing, tell them. Don’t worry about what they might think. After all, it’s your life. They will be proud of you as you prove yourself and grow your business. If you’re confident and believe that you will be successful, quietly become a success. After all, you have a lifetime to become what you dream of being. Right now, it’s enough that you have the entrepreneurial spirit. Take some time to celebrate that characteristic.
Next: You have involved your family members in your decision to freelance, now what?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Just who am I?
Just Who Am I?
Hi. I'm Cassie Armstrong. I have been a professional freelance editor and proofreader for three years. I have been the sole proprietor of MorningStar Editing for more than a year now. Before you think that this is all that I am, I have to burst your bubble. I've had many past lives before beginning my newest adventure. Those include teaching, working retail in a bookstore, being a staff writer with a local business journal, library work, and even a stay-at-home wife, mom, and grandma. I hope you will come along with me as I blog about my adventures, mistakes, successes, failures, and accolades as I learn to navigate in the world as a freelance editor and proofreader. I am not sure what the road ahead holds, but I do know that I plan to continue walking down this road for a long time to come.
Why did you decide to become an editor?
I decided that I needed something to challenge myself mentally. I was a college English teacher, which was something I always wanted to be. Teaching freshman English composition was not a good fit for me. When I decided to give up teaching, I did nothing for almost two years after I made that decision. That was not a good fit either. All I did was drive my family to distraction. So after a lot of soul- searching, I decided to do what I love to do best--work with words. At first I thought that I didn't want to be a freelance writer because I thought I didn't have anything to say. Funny, huh? Here I am writing. I've discovered that I have a lot to say on this subject alone.
After deciding not to write, I knew that I wanted to continue to work with words. This would still allow me to teach. I loved the idea of teaching, and editing would allow me to teach those who are interested in what I do and what I know, and even what I have to learn. Sounds like teaching, huh? It is but without the classroom walls and the task of reading assignments written by students who don't want to write them in the first place. After a lot of evaluation, and searching for my bliss, I decided that there was no other option for me. I felt compelled to continue working with words, to become an editor and proofreader, to read the words written by authors who wanted to write, who had something to say. After all, that was really what I did when I read eighty student English papers a semester. Once I reached my decision, I thought there was nothing more that I had to learn. I thought I knew everything there was to know about editing. After all, I competently commented on all of those student essays.
I thought that by simply announcing to the world that I was an editor and proofreader, I was those things. I thought I would immediately be thanked by those in publishing for making my decision, for deciding to join them. I thought work would come fast and furiously. I thought project managers and managing editors would want to work with me and would give me a shot on the basis of my past lives alone. I thought the only thing I had to do was show an interest in language and be willing to take projects off their hands. I thought the accolades would just pour in. I thought the world was my oyster. I didn't know or didn't want to face, or even think about, paying my dues. I thought those days were behind me. Yes, I was the new kid on the block, but I thought it was enough that I wanted to do the job, that I showed an interest. Was I ever wrong!
Why freelance?
After I made the decision to be an editorial freelancer, the next step was to decide where I wanted to do the job. Did I want to go back to an office and an office atmosphere? Were there a lot of opportunities for me in Colorado Springs? The first question was easy. I didn't want to work in an office. And the market for editorial professionals in Colorado Springs is not as lucrative as the market for them in Denver, or in other large cities. Because of that, I decided to freelance. As a freelancer, I could work anywhere. I could work from home, the back porch, the park, even the library. The choices are limitless.
I wanted to work from home. I wanted to be my own boss. I wanted to pick and choose among the projects, and I thought it would be easy to build a freelancing career while wearing my pajamas. I thought that as a freelancer, I would have lots of time to focus on every project that found its way to my door. I thought nothing would interfere. I dreamed that I would be an overnight sensation. I thought my family would embrace my new endeavor, publishers would beat a path to my door to have me work with them, and I would be an overnight success. I thought I would rake in the big money just because of my ability to recognize good prose. I thought I knew everything there was to know about freelancing. I thought I would set the publishing world on its ear. Unfortunately, it hasn't worked out that way.
Come along with me as we navigate the minefield of freelancing and learn how to survive in this fascinating business, especially in this economic climate.
Next: You've made the decision to freelance, now what?
Hi. I'm Cassie Armstrong. I have been a professional freelance editor and proofreader for three years. I have been the sole proprietor of MorningStar Editing for more than a year now. Before you think that this is all that I am, I have to burst your bubble. I've had many past lives before beginning my newest adventure. Those include teaching, working retail in a bookstore, being a staff writer with a local business journal, library work, and even a stay-at-home wife, mom, and grandma. I hope you will come along with me as I blog about my adventures, mistakes, successes, failures, and accolades as I learn to navigate in the world as a freelance editor and proofreader. I am not sure what the road ahead holds, but I do know that I plan to continue walking down this road for a long time to come.
Why did you decide to become an editor?
I decided that I needed something to challenge myself mentally. I was a college English teacher, which was something I always wanted to be. Teaching freshman English composition was not a good fit for me. When I decided to give up teaching, I did nothing for almost two years after I made that decision. That was not a good fit either. All I did was drive my family to distraction. So after a lot of soul- searching, I decided to do what I love to do best--work with words. At first I thought that I didn't want to be a freelance writer because I thought I didn't have anything to say. Funny, huh? Here I am writing. I've discovered that I have a lot to say on this subject alone.
After deciding not to write, I knew that I wanted to continue to work with words. This would still allow me to teach. I loved the idea of teaching, and editing would allow me to teach those who are interested in what I do and what I know, and even what I have to learn. Sounds like teaching, huh? It is but without the classroom walls and the task of reading assignments written by students who don't want to write them in the first place. After a lot of evaluation, and searching for my bliss, I decided that there was no other option for me. I felt compelled to continue working with words, to become an editor and proofreader, to read the words written by authors who wanted to write, who had something to say. After all, that was really what I did when I read eighty student English papers a semester. Once I reached my decision, I thought there was nothing more that I had to learn. I thought I knew everything there was to know about editing. After all, I competently commented on all of those student essays.
I thought that by simply announcing to the world that I was an editor and proofreader, I was those things. I thought I would immediately be thanked by those in publishing for making my decision, for deciding to join them. I thought work would come fast and furiously. I thought project managers and managing editors would want to work with me and would give me a shot on the basis of my past lives alone. I thought the only thing I had to do was show an interest in language and be willing to take projects off their hands. I thought the accolades would just pour in. I thought the world was my oyster. I didn't know or didn't want to face, or even think about, paying my dues. I thought those days were behind me. Yes, I was the new kid on the block, but I thought it was enough that I wanted to do the job, that I showed an interest. Was I ever wrong!
Why freelance?
After I made the decision to be an editorial freelancer, the next step was to decide where I wanted to do the job. Did I want to go back to an office and an office atmosphere? Were there a lot of opportunities for me in Colorado Springs? The first question was easy. I didn't want to work in an office. And the market for editorial professionals in Colorado Springs is not as lucrative as the market for them in Denver, or in other large cities. Because of that, I decided to freelance. As a freelancer, I could work anywhere. I could work from home, the back porch, the park, even the library. The choices are limitless.
I wanted to work from home. I wanted to be my own boss. I wanted to pick and choose among the projects, and I thought it would be easy to build a freelancing career while wearing my pajamas. I thought that as a freelancer, I would have lots of time to focus on every project that found its way to my door. I thought nothing would interfere. I dreamed that I would be an overnight sensation. I thought my family would embrace my new endeavor, publishers would beat a path to my door to have me work with them, and I would be an overnight success. I thought I would rake in the big money just because of my ability to recognize good prose. I thought I knew everything there was to know about freelancing. I thought I would set the publishing world on its ear. Unfortunately, it hasn't worked out that way.
Come along with me as we navigate the minefield of freelancing and learn how to survive in this fascinating business, especially in this economic climate.
Next: You've made the decision to freelance, now what?
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