What’s Playing on the iPod right now: “It Kills Me” – Melanie Fiona
What I am reading now: “Obsessed” – Devon Scott
Ever since I started writing seriously I have complained about my day job getting in the way. I longed for more the day I would be able to devote full-time hours to living in my head. And then I started communicating with actual writers and learned a hard truth. I shouldn’t be so eager to quit the day job.
It’s no secret that getting published is not an easy feat but getting a big advance is like hitting the lottery. Most mid level authors don’t earn enough on their advances to support themselves let along afford health insurance. My research shows that I shouldn’t be so quick to throw away my job.
So, I decided to change the way I look at my 9 to 5. Here are the benefits to being a full-time employee:
- Regular paycheck – This really comes in handy for those times you need to make a mortgage payment or say, need to buy groceries.
- Health insurance – Everyone is going to need a check up at some point.
- Professional development – You can actually become an expert on something besides writing.
- Focus – Having to write at night and weekends keeps you on task to bang out that chapter before work.
- Social Skills – Instead of being lost in your own universe with people who live in your head, you can actually have a conversation with a real live person.
- And most importantly, Material – Working with people of various backgrounds, races, and perspectives gives you bountiful supply of situations to choose from. People love to share their stories. In the words of Seinfeld, “It’s Gold!”
Now I take comfort in the security of the day job. Although it may not be my life’s calling, the job does allow me the opportunity to pursue my dream.
Peace,
Michelle