If you have worked for a long as a freelancer, you will realize that there is a constant need to diversify and expand your business. One of the goals of every freelancer, at least a goal that every freelancer should have, is building a passive income. This is essential because it will significantly determine how far you grow your income.
Warren Buffet, the American billionaire and renowned investor, said, “If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until the day you die.” As a freelancer, your goal is to create a passive income system. Do not always expect to have customers who will give you enough jobs to sustain your lifestyle and income.
If there is one thing I have learned through my years of freelancing, you always have to look for something better. Do not ever settle in a comfortable place and wait for miracles. Make the miracles happen.
You must not always be present to make money. Writing books is one of the avenues you can use to make a passive income. Many platforms can be used to sell and market books. Social media is a great place to sell and market books. If you want to self-publish your books, platforms like Amazon KDP will ensure you can access millions of customers.
Perhaps, like many others, you are wondering where to start if you want to write a book.
1.0 Just Start Writing
I have personally struggled with procrastination, wondering whether my books will be worth it for someone to read. After an extended period, I resolved to write.
One of the best things about writing is that it offers an avenue to express your thoughts and develop your craft. Like a baby, you must start crawling, then learn to stand, walk, and run. The journey will be slow, lonely, and tiresome. But I know that the joy of someone reading your book and paying you for it is excellent.
Ernest Hemingway, a renowned author, said, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” Writers are not extraordinary people. They express ideas, tell stories, and showcase their imagination in words. Simple.
So, if you want to write a book, begin by writing. Write about your experiences. Write about your love. Write about your work. Write about your losses.
2.0 Read. Read. Read.
If you want to be a great writer, you have to read wide. You can never be a good writer without being a reader. You must be committed to reading extensively. Read the author in all genres, and challenge yourself with weekly reading goals. Let a week not pass by without you reading a chapter, a book, an article, etc.
Be a voracious reader. However, do not just read for the sake of it. Read to gain insights and allow yourself to be challenged. You will gain a unique stylistic approach to your writing as you read extensively. You will become more effective in making arguments, whether written or spoken.
So, be a reader. Invest in good books and keep reading as you write.
3.0 Be Unique and Authentic
Another thing that keeps many people from starting to write is the urge to be like someone. Aspiring and being motivated by those who went before us is good. However, do not copy anyone’s style of writing. You are you. And people are not looking for another Earnest Hemingway; they want a great you.
Be yourself and write about things you love and aspire for. Do not aim to imitate anyone when writing. Just express yourself in the best way you can.
4.0 Take Writing Courses
While you must avoid imitating anyone in your writing, improving your skills through learning is crucial. With the advent of technology, there are many ways you can access valuable information and courses about writing. Always be on the lookout for opportunities to learn how you can improve your writing. Understand the different techniques used by pros when writing about diverse topics.
5.0 Conclusion
Writing a book is not easy, but everyone can craft a good book with the right attitude. Do not despise your abilities as a writer. As you continue growing in your freelance career, aim to diversify your income by starting a blog, writing a book, or selling courses.
Be sure to check out my books on Amazon. I’ll be happy if you can purchase all or any of my books.