What does it really take to make money as a writer?

Before I tell you what I think about today’s topic, kindly allow me to thank you for reading this post.
According to statistics, only about 20% of people who subscribe to a newsletter ever even open it, and the numbers are even more dismal for engagement. So, if you’re reading this, I want you to know I appreciate you and the fact you’re taking the time to read this. I’m also curious about something. If we haven’t corresponded directly in the past, would you take a moment to tell me how you discovered me and my work? I really would love to know.
Today I want to answer a question I am often asked:  What does it take to make a living as a writer? 
I can answer this in a few different ways:


It takes consistency: consistent writing, consistent production, consistent publishing.


Here’s something cool: 250 words a day is 91,250 words (a good-sized novel or about 1 1/2 or even 2 non-fiction books) over the course of a year. If you type 50 words per minute (and you can type a lot faster with even a little practice), that will take all of about 5 minutes a day. One novel or two books a year, 250 words a day … in about 5 minutes.


I just mentioned one novel or two non-fiction books a year. No, not the breakneck speed of some writers, but definitely a sustainable pace you can fit in around work, school, friends, and family obligations.


Year in and year out is the key. Since 2004, I’ve published over 20 books. I “took off” 2005-2008, but since 2009 I’ve published at least one book, and in 2016, a total of 11 book projects. I will continue to publish at least four non-fiction and one fiction (coming soon!) book every year — probably for the rest of my life.


I know nothing I said was very sexy (consistency, I’ve heard, is viewed more as boring than sexy), or even exciting … but the continuous increase in royalties allows me to continue to be a full-time writer. And honestly, there’s nothing I’d rather be!
What about you? What do you secretly, or not-so-secretly, want from your writing? A full-time career? Enough money to afford a bigger house, nicer car, or a better education for your kids? I’d love to know.
One last thing: I’ve been writing this newsletter weekly for awhile. How do you like it? Do you look forward to it? Do you wish it would come every two or even four weeks? Is there a question you want to ask, but haven’t? Feel free to email me or post a comment on the blog.
Honorée Corder

Grateful Author

 

MORE GOOD STUFF…
~Would you like to read my new book before it’s released? The Advanced Reader Team for The Prosperous Writer’s Guide to Making More Money is now open! My author buddy, Brian Meeks, and I are here to help you write full-time. Sign up here .
~Learn how to market your book like a pro. 27 authors and book marketing experts joined together in this summit. They’ll teach you step-by-step how to sell more books!
~Need a way to easily share your ebooks? Try my personal favorite! BookFunnel.com! (I have no affiliation, I’m just a super fan.)

 

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