Are You Working Harder, Not Smarter? Five Reasons Your Output > your income

Are you working hard, but hardly making ends meet?
Have you actually considered "throwing in the towel" because your sweat equity seems greater than your returns?

Chances are, you're guilty of the same mistakes and mindset that stunts the growth of writers of all genres and backgrounds.
If so, it's time to work smarter, not harder.

"Riddle me this?"
What's the purpose of being a freelancer if it's not to enjoy certain "freedoms" while maintaining an enjoyable quality of life? Hello?

With this in mind, let's examine some of the reasons you may not be earning your worth for your words.

1. Buying into the myth of the starving artist.
Don't get me wrong, starving artists DO exist, but it's not to be considered an "absolute" cardinal rule as a writer. You don't have to suffer for your art.
And while productive activities certainly enhance your overall success, your mindset makes a difference too. Well-to-do authors like J.K. Rowlings, Stephen King, John Grisham, and Terry McMillan should serve as constant reminders of the infinite possibilities available to all of us. Remember, "so a man thinketh, so it is."
Aim high.

2. You've got no goals.
Goals are like a roadmap on the path to success. How much would you like to make this month? This year? Would you like to write a book in the future? Do you have a business plan? Put your goals in writing, along with designated deadlines to go the distance.

3. You're choosing the wrong types of writing.
Be advised: all writing is not considered equal. Though circumstances vary, writing for businesses typically pays more than penning pieces for magazines.
Print publications often pay more than online sites. Feature writing pays more than blogging. Make it a point to know the ins and outs of the industry. Devote the bulk of your efforts to what yields the most profit. It's a no-brainer.

4. You're not seeking expert advice.
Whether it's through reading and applying the words of wisdom from best-selling authors or A-list bloggers, it's important to pay attention and take note.
It's virtually impossible for any of us to know all there is to know about the vast field of writing. Shorten your learning curve and increase your odds for success by studying and gleaning from the many resources at your disposal. Because if you haven't got a clue, you haven't got a chance!

5. You don't govern your time like you govern your money.
Time is a commodity. Yet many squander it foolishly.
Recognize that being busy is not the same as being productive.
Are you with me here? Watch out for time wasters.
Like...folks who hold you "hostage" on the phone. Spending excessive amounts of time being social on social networks. And not prioritizing properly. Not that all your hours have to be mapped out and accounted for. There are certainly times when I kick back with a box of chocolates and do an all-night movie marathon, or shop for hours with gal pals, or surf the Net for bodacious blogs. But, I work hard so I can play hard. And I never miss a deadline. :-)

Well, there you have it folks. Thoughts? Confession time...which are you guilty of?

Image: Stock photo