I’m tired of being told (usually in thinly veiled statements) that being an author isn’t a job. Any writer that writes on a full-time or regular part-time basis will shout from the rooftops–IT IS!
One time, not too long ago, I was feeling overwhelmed with the projects I had on the go. I had more than one manuscript in the works, I had lots of editing to do (both for myself and someone else), and I was still trying to navigate the world of author marketing for my published novel. I must have been complaining. I usually don’t mean to. I know I’m incredibly lucky to have the ability to commit my time to fulfilling my dreams. But sometimes, I just need to vent.
So there I was, bitching about all the things I had to do and the little time I had to do them in, and someone reminds me that I don’t have a 9-5, so. . .
Queue ominous music…
I’m well aware that I don’t have a 9-5. Trust me. I know it.
So, since I don’t have a 9-5, what do I do? Let’s take today for example. I’ve been up since six am. I threw my hair in a bun, grabbed a coffee, and sat down at my computer. I didn’t have to put on make-up. I didn’t have to drive to work. And I didn’t have to punch a clock. I don’t have a boss standing over my shoulder (since I’m the boss), and I can take a break whenever I want. It’s a pretty sweet deal, really. I’m in the comfort of my own home, working away. But I’m still working! I’m what you’d call–self-employed. 😉
My first order of business for the day was to tackle some editing. I opened one of my manuscripts (one of four that need my immediate attention), and started going through my editor’s notes. It went smoothly for a while. I got through a few chapters until the other “things” started knocking on my brain–have you checked your email? Have you made a post on your FB page so your readers don’t forget about you? Have you tweeted recently?…they say all authors should tweet, you know? Have you tracked your sales over the weekend? Have you blogged? You haven’t blogged enough, that’s part of your job as an author…
So I made another cup of coffee, set aside the editing for a bit and started on the other “things”.
I don’t know about you, but to me, that sounds a heck of a lot of work. But I like it. I don’t for one second think, I wish I was anywhere but here. And I rarely ever get a case of the Mondays.
But here’s the thing–If I don’t do all the things I’m supposed to do, my career suffers. If I don’t write, I’m not producing a product. If I don’t spend time marketing, no one is going to buy my product. If I don’t network, I won’t have a readership or any connection with my peers.
The definition of a job is:
1- A paid position of regular employment.
2- A task or piece of work, especially one that is paid.
11 responses to “Being an author IS a job. And it’s the BEST job.”
Reblogged this on deadlyeverafter and commented:
I think anyone who is self-employed can identify with this. Just because you happen to wear pajamas while you work, doesn’t make what you less of a job.
As if I didn’t already like you, you go and post this, and use a Buffy gif. You’re now one of my favorite people.
Hahaha! Love Buffy!
Thank you for this! I work hard, and I probably spend way more time and energy than I should trying to convince people that what I do is “legitimate” work.
Yes! It’s work trying to convince people it’s work. Lol
Oh, and “help me, I’m poor” Yes! Love that movie.
I would consider it a job even if you didn’t get paid in legal tender. The money is ultimately a rather incidental part of doing what one does. You make money so you can be in business–to keep writing and being yourself. Anyway, after realizing that Winston Churchill kept his bricklaying skills up throughout his life “just in case” I realized that everyone seems to need a day job to fall back on.
Be Well!
It’s definitely work, not matter what. But when an author is an earning one, and someone suggests their “real job” is somehow superior, it ruffles some feathers. 😉
My mom and dad were lounge musicians. They got to hear that “but I have a REAL job” thing all the time from 9 to 5’ers who sold bathroom decorations or whatever. I grew up with a built-in “dismiss” button I learned to push when hearing such comments.
You’re doing it right. 😉
🙂
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