A Look at Great Companion Careers For Transitioning Writers

A few months ago, during my typical blog hopping, I happened upon an interesting post. The blogger announced to her readers that she had decided to quit her 9 to 5 gig, to make writing her full-time career instead.

Gutsy move.
But, I wouldn't advise it.
Truth be told, writing is glamorized more than the fashion industry!
The "unenlightened" think that with a few creative ideas, proficiency at stringing words together, and a portable laptop, the sky's the limit.
Many envision a life of leisure and lucrative book deals.

Don't believe the hype!
Far be it from me to be a "dream killer," but today's writer must be a "realist" if he wishes to reach his optimal potential and be profitable.

Contrary to popular opinion, "good" sustainable writing is hard. Really.
Writers must wear a multitude of hats---from accountant, to researcher, to marketer, to consultant, to strategist. It ain't always pretty, folks.

Not to mention, this way of life requires a lot of discipline, sacrifice and perserverance. "Many are called, but few are chosen."

Which is why it behooves the average writer seeking to survive after leaving the rat race, to have a companion gig to earn more cheese. :-)

Transitioning to "full-time" status is a goal for just about every writer I know.
But trust...it's a process. And you need a game plan and a Plan B til you arrive. Word up!

HERE'S WHY:

1. Even with regular writing assignments, this industry can be unpredictable.
Your favorite editor changes publications. Print publications opt to go online. Contracts sometimes are not honored.
And even when you're able to sell your articles, many times you won't get paid until after publication. Which can vary from a few months to even a year later.

2. It's really hard to be creative when your stomach grumblings are louder than the creative voices in your head.

3. If other family members depend on your income as well, you'll need an additional source of revenue to tide you over until your writing business prospers.

With this in mind, here are a few part-time gigs (you might consider)
to supplement your writing income...

SUBSTITUTE TEACHING
Okay, while I admit that this line of work 'ain't for everybody, hear me out.
Substitute Teachers, (as the name implies), fill in for regular teachers, providing coverage for everything from vacations, to family medical leaves, to personal days.
Depending on your region and district, "Subs" earn anywhere from about $80.00 a day to $200.00 a day for approximately 6 hours of work.
You can work whenever and however you'd like.
Working with kids today, can be an interesting experience that allows you to make a difference. For more info, contact the National Substitute Teachers Alliance.

BOOK STORE CLERK
Considering that a lot of us are avid readers anyway, how cool would it be to hang out here and get paid? Often employees get discounts on merchandise, and the opportunity to connect with customers can provide fodder for future articles, book reviews and blog posts.

CONSULTANT
Consulting is big business. Whether your expertise exists in real estate, time management, organizing, or beauty products, there is money to be made.
Additionally, it offers great flexibility and good pay. Put your years of corporate experience to good use.

VIRTUAL ASSISTANT
Virtual assistants provide support in an array of industries--through administrative tasks, like data entry, medical coding, and even editing. With the Internet, many businesses are hiring individuals to work remotely for convenience and cost savings.
Interested? Check out Virtualvocations.com for more details.

Thoughts? Any of you try any of these careers while writing? Any other recommendations? Do tell.

Image: SPFF