Top 10 Ways Freelance Writing is Like Working Out
October 29, 2009 by Deb
Filed under Freelance Writing
As I was I doing the morning dog walk, it occurred to me that freelance writing is a lot like working out. We don’t always want to do it, but the rewards are plenty. As I thought about it a little more, I realized freelance writing and working out have more in common than we think.
10 Ways Freelance Writing is Like Working Out
10. The More You Work it Out, the More Things Begin to Fit
When you first began writing, it might take a bit of finagling to get words to fit. With some practice, the words flow naturally and easily. It all fits better – just like your skinny jeans. The more you write, the more you practice, the more you learn…the better it will all fit.
9. Sometimes the Exercises You Enjoy the Least Have the Biggest Payoff
I hate crunches. I can zip through the aerobics and get into a little yoga but once I’m down on the ground jackknifing my body in unnatural positions, the workout loses its luster. As my tummy gets flatter I realize it’s well worth it though. Writing is like that. There are projects I don’t enjoy as much as others, but when I get that lucrative paycheck I know it’s all worth it. Always look at the light at the end of the tunnel.
8. There Will Always Be Excuses for Not Getting it Done
You’re hungry. You have writer’s block. Your favorite show is on. You’re tired. Your family is calling. The truth is, there will always be excuses for why you don’t feel like working (or working out). Do it or don’t do it, in the end you’re the one who loses out.
7. When You See Positive Results Your Whole Outlook Changes
As you step on the scale and see your weight going down, you know you can keep going. You’re feeling positive about your workout and you know it’s worth the effort. It’s the same with writing. As the money starts coming in and as your byline becomes more recognizable you realize all that hard work is worth it too. Instead of wondering if you’ll ever “make it,” you KNOW you’ll succeed. Positivity breeds success.
6. Once You Get in the Habit it Becomes an Easy Part of the Daily Routine
The first few weeks you begin working out, it’s hard to find the motivation. After about a month it becomes part of the routine and it’s easier to get into. Freelance writing is the same way. By setting a scheduling and sticking to your schedule, you’ll get it the routine. You’ll respect your work time and so will others.
5. Sometimes You Need a Spotter
Every now and then you need someone else around. Whether it’s outsourcing when you’re over your head, or a second pair of eyes for proofreading, there’s no shame in asking for help. In addition to your own writer friends, writer support groups abound online and in the real world. Ask for help if you need it.
4. When You Take Time Off, it’s Hard to Get it Back
Have you ever taken a week off from working out only to find it’s hard to get back into it? Writing is the same way, especially when you’re on a roll. Many writers try and keep fresh by writing every day, but everyone needs a vacation sometimes. When you come back, you just have to shake it off and get back into the swing of things.
3. There are Days You Don’t Want to Do it
Raise your hands if you ever wanted to sleep late instead of work. Raise your hand if you ever blew off a day of writing to take your kids to the park. There are times you just don’t want to do it. The beauty of being a freelancer is the flexibility. Just be sure you stay on top of your work and don’t miss any deadlines.
2. After a While People Take Notice
Sooner or later your writing won’t seem like much of a hobby anymore. New clients will call. Your name becomes more well known. You’re being wined and dined by potential clients, when did all that happen. All of a sudden the people who wrote off writing as a mere hobby realize it’s a little more serious than that. Welcome to your career.
1. For the Best Results You Have to Do it Every Day
If you’re not working on a regular basis, you’re not earning on a regular basis. Yes, we’re flexible. Yes, we can pick and choose. Not keeping busy every day is the difference between money in the bank and just getting by.
What are some of the similarities you find between writing and working out?
Thanks, good list – I particularly like #9. Sometimes you just have to put in the grunt work before you get to the more fun stuff. As you say, keep your end goal in mind.
No. 11:
Sometimes your editor sounds like Jillian Michaels, but with less understanding (had a boss like this at a newspaper for a year).
What about:
You’ll have good days and bad days – but don’t let the bad days put you off your game altogether. Sometimes it’s easy, and that’s awesome, but other days are a real struggle and you wonder what the hell you’re doing. But if you persevere, you’ll have more good days.
I couldn’t agree more. Exercising those writing muscles is the best thing writers can do for themselves. I certainly write much better now than back when I was starting out. I’m sure I’ll write much better in five years from now, as long as I keep on “working out.”
Interesting post. I could use a coach for freelance writing. I have a screenwriting coach which is a big help. I need to find a “mentor” who can encourage me to stick with freelance writing and to give me tips and tricks for success.
Great post. I could use a freelance writing coach to help me with my writing. I have a screenwriting coach who is wonderful. She provides encouragement and helpful tips on screenwriting. I could use a freelance writing coach to encourage me and help me develop my business.
Deb, I think expanding on this article could be useful for beginners…. If you want I can help out…