# Transitioning from Part-Time to Full-Time Writer: 7 Essential Tips
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Chapter 1: The Unexpected Shift
In January of last year, I began a new role at an investment firm, believing I was on a promising path as an editor and online writer. However, just a year later, that optimism was abruptly dashed when I was laid off during a swift Zoom meeting. The announcement was so quick that if you weren’t paying attention, you might have missed it entirely. I was left in disbelief, grappling with the sudden change in my career trajectory.
Just a month prior, my colleague had been arranging for me to visit the company headquarters to get a better understanding of our operations. Now, everything had shifted dramatically in an instant.
Faced with two options—resuming my online writing journey or searching for another job—I found myself still reeling from the shock. I began scouring platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, but most positions required in-office work or relied on military skills I hadn’t utilized in years, neither of which appealed to me.
Realizing I could restart my writing career on various platforms, I noticed that my writing had dwindled while I was absorbed in my nine-hour workdays. My focus had been on researching tech companies and brainstorming stock market ideas, from cutting-edge hydrogen technology to electric vehicle advancements and the status of microchips.
Now free to choose my path, I found I enjoyed the flexibility of working from home. For the past three years, I had adapted to remote work as a government contractor and a writer. It had been six years since I left the Army, and perhaps I was finally beginning to understand what I wanted to do with my life.
Last June, I decided to dive fully into writing, hoping for a positive outcome. Over the previous two years, I had been experimenting with various writing styles and topics without a clear idea of what my audience preferred.
Understanding Your Audience
You see, it’s not solely about what you want to write; it’s crucial to consider what your readers are interested in. This is a common oversight among many writers.
As I embarked on this transition, I was aware of the challenges ahead, but I felt ready to take the plunge. I had little to lose and potentially a great deal to gain. Here are the seven strategies I implemented to facilitate my transition:
1. Establish a Writing Schedule
I’m most productive in the mornings when my mind is fresh. Although I could write later in the day, I found that my creativity flowed much better in the early hours. Identify your peak writing times and protect them from distractions.
2. Concentrate on a Few Niches
Focusing on topics I am knowledgeable about made writing much easier. While I occasionally ventured into new areas, I primarily stuck to what I knew best.
3. Commit to a Single Platform
While I was writing on two platforms, I realized one offered significantly better compensation. By concentrating my efforts there, I managed to earn nearly as much as I did in my previous job—and in some months, even more. Writing for myself meant I could dictate my own schedule without a boss hovering over me.
4. Schedule Appointments in the Afternoon
Recognizing that mornings were my most productive writing hours, I began arranging meetings for the afternoon. It’s essential to take control of your day to minimize disruptions.
5. Optimize the Writing Process
Once I found my rhythm, I aimed to write three articles daily, viewing anything beyond that as a bonus. I even discovered I could squeeze in an additional article on weekends before spending time with family.
6. Connect with Fellow Writers
Throughout my writing journey, I sought ways to improve. I enrolled in a few courses, including one with Tim Denning. Even though I was already familiar with much of the content, I still gleaned valuable insights.
7. Monitor Your Progress
Every month, I tracked which articles earned over $75, helping me understand what my audience appreciated. While not every piece would perform well, I learned to focus on the topics that resonated with readers.
Final Thoughts
Achieving the goal of writing full-time is within reach for anyone willing to put in the effort. Define your vision clearly, and pursue it with determination. Setbacks are inevitable, but if you know your destination, give it your best shot to get there. Ultimately, the only obstacle standing in your way is you.
What challenges are you facing in transitioning from part-time to a full-time writing career?
Chapter 2: Expert Insights
In this video, you will discover how freelance writing can lead to long-term success with just a few simple strategies.
Learn how to balance a successful writing career alongside a full-time job, featuring tips on self-publishing and effective time management.