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Writing | Business
What I’ve Learned From Publishing 2,000,000 Words
Years of experience have taught me a few lessons that help writers survive this business.
Writing has given me everything.
I’ve had the chance to travel the world and meet amazing people. I have a new house and no debt. I’m able to spoil my girlfriend and surprise her with nice things. I feel luckier than a three-legged man in an ass-kicking contest.
I was visiting my mother recently, riding in her car. She casually asked how many pieces I’ve written. I said, “I don’t know, 6000, maybe 7000?”
“Noooo…” she said with a laugh. I felt like a blog hoarder.
I’ve served a hard time at this keyboard. I’m a product of the system. A few lessons have emerged over the years. They guide my quest to keep the dream alive.
Don’t buy a jetski after your first big month
You never fully get used to paychecks swinging like a broken arm.
Clients come and go. Platforms boom and bust. Writing isn’t “feast or famine” like the art business — but it’s on the spectrum. Change and trolls are the only two consistencies of this business.