Showing posts with label making money writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label making money writing. Show all posts

Saturday, January 28, 2012

These Times Are Tough

I won't sugar-coat it. The last year has been a hard one for my family financially. We've learned many ways to cut costs, which have been great, but in the last four years, we've lost $20,000/year of our income. Not an easy thing thing to recover from, by any means. We've made more than a few mistakes along the way, but so far, with God's help, we've made it this far. Against all odds we were even able to successfully modify our mortgage.

So now I'm looking even more into ways to earn some extra income. It's not so easy to sniff out those legitimate opportunities. On the plus-side, my traffic is picking up on Hubpages, Which means I should get my first check next month. I can't wait.

I've decided to write more articles there, and thought I might do some more personal ones--memoir, or personal essay style. The only thing is, I can't decide how personal to make them. I know that not everyone cares to read about others' trials. But I also know there are others out there with similar experiences who might want to see how someone else has made it through those hard times. But some of the trials I've gone through......well, they're not the usual things people will discuss.

How personal is too personal?
Is there a line that shouldn't be crossed when relating memories from the past? I called my mom and asked her how she felt about this. She's always been very supportive of my writing, and also helped me to not repress those emotions that come from things experienced in the past. She thought it was a good idea, but said to be careful about how much I share. I'm sure there's a balance there, as there is in most things (if not all things) in life. With God's help, I'll find it.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Deciding on My Focus Here

It's been hard to decide exactly what I want this site to be about. When I first started it, I wanted to help people avoid some of the financial pitfalls that we've learned about the hard way. I also wanted to help people become more thrifty and save money. It seems though, that there are plenty of sites out there that can tell you about all of the good deals a lot better than I can (mainly because they're a lot more dedicated to the task of looking for all these deals). I have no idea how I could find that kind of time with five kids to raise--at least not if I wanted to have time to enjoy my family!

I've thought long and hard about what I wanted to do here. Do I want to earn money? Sure I do! Who doesn't? Do I want to help others avoid some of the mistakes I've made? You betcha! Do I want to share some helpful tip I've learned to get through hard times? I'd love to!

But I also don't want writing to feel like a chore. It's always been a sort of release for me. It's something I love to do. I think that burying myself in coupon, saving and freebie deals (and other such things) and then focusing my writing on mainly that would suck out any excitement I get when I sit down to blog. Does that sound terrible? I'm sorry if it does, but that's how I feel.

I want to enjoy the time I spend here. I figure that if I'm enjoying writing what I do here, then it's more likely that people will enjoy reading what I've written (at least I hope that's the case). I like talking about my family. I like talking about what we're doing in our lives to survive in this tough economy. But I don't really like talking about each and every coupon, freebie or other such deal. Haha! Go figure!

So I think I'll leave most of the couponing know-how to the professionals like The Thrifty Couple, Freebies4Mom, Freebies2Deals, CouponMom and the many others out there who are so much better at it than I am. Though if I find out about something that's too good to keep to myself, I'll be sure to share it. But that isn't going to be my main focus here. My focus here is about family life, trials, successes and failures. They say to write about what you know best and my family and our lives together are what I know best.



I hope that works for my readers (few they may be right now), because that's what I do best. So there is my new focus! God Bless :)

My eHow Divorce...

As some of you know, I started writing for eHow a few years ago. At first it didn't pay anything, since it all has to do with ad-generated revenue, and you have to have traffic to make anything off of that. Anyway, eventually I started making a little money off of the articles there, and even mentioned that I wished I'd written more before the changeover to Demand Studio's new program of only on-staff writers and flat pay rates for articles.

The way they first handled the changeover was that you were still paid off of ad revenue for your initial articles, but had to become a staff writer and accept the new payment terms to have any other articles published on the site. I believe that they made this change to improve the quality of articles published on their site.

They did initially accept me as a staff writer, but I hesitated to accept these new terms and so I never did become a part of their staff. I still received payments for my original six articles though, until early this year when they discontinued even that part of their terms. They offered me a dismal amount of money for the rights to my articles (it wasn't even an amount I'd have accepted for one article, let alone six) and said if I didn't accept the purchase terms, then I would retain the rights, but my articles would be removed from their site. Well, I refused the terms and kept the rights. So, I'm no longer an eHow contributor. Ah, well, life goes on.

I'll be moving those articles I wrote over to HubPages soon. My earnings there have started to increase over the last month or so, and so I have the motivation to get back to work! Now that the kids are back in school, I'm hoping to have more time to write. We shall see.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Lost Time


I spent a part of the weekend polishing up more of my fiction. I've got another one on Hubpages for those who are interested in reading it.

I might not be making a ton of money by putting these up, but I love sharing them. They're likely to get more attention this way than sitting in my desk drawer, right? Plus, I really love going over it all again. The nostalgia is great! :)

Lost Time

If you like this, or any of my other short stories, feel free to share them. It's really easy to link to them :)

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Forgive Me, Daddy


Here's another story I put up on Hubpages today. All-in-all I think it's been a very productive day. It's felt really good to pick up my fiction again for a bit. Even just polishing it up and then writing a short history on it is a great release. I think I'm learning from this experience too.

Don't worry though, I promise not to stop doing articles;-)

Forgive Me, Daddy

Shadow Of a Man


First of all, Happy Veteran's Day! I'd like to thank all the men and woman who have and are serving our country and protecting our rights. May God be with you always!

I decided some time in the middle of the night last night that I wasn't going to let my short stories sit in a drawer, gathering dust anymore. So I decided to put them on HubPages to share them, along with a little bit of the history behind them. There's even a chance that I can make money from doing something else that I love! So if you want to read some short fiction, the link for the first one is below here. It's an appropriate read for this holiday :)

Shadow Of a Man
*The picture here is of the war veteran this story was written for*

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

e-How Writers change to Demand Studios

I starting writing for e-How last year, and was quite excited about it to begin with. After writing six articles though, and realizing that the only way I would make money off of any of them was if people clicked on the ads displayed on my articles' pages, I quit writing for them. I kept my account open though, and basically forgot about them.

Then, this year, e-How stopped accepting articles through their website and switched everything over to Demand Studios. I received notice that I had been approved to write for them, but the way things worked would be quite different as far as article submission and payment.

For starters, there is now a copy-editor involved. This copy-editor can tell you to rewrite your articles and even outright reject them. That's an intimidating thought, but not a deal-breaker. The fact is, most people could use a copy-editor and I'm no exception. In fact, if I could get one for free right now, I'd have them go over everything I write, so that I don't make myself look like an illiterate idiot with some of the typos I make. Yikes!

But then there's also the way payment works. Apparently it's a flat fee (some say it's only $15 per article). That might not seem too bad for some people at first sight--especially considering I had stopped writing for e-how after only making $12 the first six months on six articles--I must tell you that I now wish I'd written more for e-How before the change-over. Why? Because those articles are still making money and I'm not having to do anything now but watch it happen. Though the amounts are still quite paltry, it's increasing over time and will eventually surpass that $15 flat fee per article. That's what you call passive income.

So, I'm unsure on whether or not I'll follow through with the Demand Studios account. I can't rule it out entirely as a possibility to make money writing. They have a great reputation for paying each friday with a transfer to your paypal account. Dependable income can't be overrated.

I'm sure I don't know all there is to know about this company, so if I discover anything new, I'll let you know.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Back to Writing

I've been thinking a lot about writing lately. I do consider what I do here as writing. After all, it's article writing in a sense. But truly, my first love has always been fiction. I've been blessed with an overactive imagination. My kids have always loved it when I come up with little "what would happen if..." stories for them, but that's not really the area I most excel in--though it is a lot of fun to make up a story that puts the wicked witch of Snow White as the good guy. Haha

I've had a story in my mind for several years now. I've outlined just about the whole thing in notebooks and know what I want to do with it in my mind. I also have a very rough draft of the first 80+ pages. The problem? I'm not such a good mommy when I'm in writing mode. I'm inattentive, impatient and totally absorbed in what I'm doing in front of me (lost in the world of my creation, is a good way to put it).

I thought about, and tried to put the story on hold while raising my munchkins, but it just won't stop running through my head. It's still there, no matter how many articles I write, different subjects I research, or boo-boos I kiss.

So, what to do? I got inspiration from reading an author's (whom I'm a huge fan of) website. She's written several books all while being a mommy to three (one less than me, but who's counting? LOL). She's become hugely successful and it all started with a dream (as coincidentally did my idea). If you haven't guessed who I'm talking about, it's Stephenie Meyer.

I actually haven't visited her site before yesterday, despite discovering and devouring her twilight series last year. When I did visit it yesterday for the first time, I found the story behind her popular series very inspiring.

I went to bed last night thinking about how I too, could try to make a go of my dream. Writing has always been a passion for me, and it's an incredible release. But the fact is, my family will always come first. I don't want to be a half-decent parent. I want to be the best mother. I'd started to assume that meant I couldn't do my book. But I think I was wrong. I think I just need to do what I've been fighting against, and create a workable schedule (I hate schedules--haha). I already know I have my hubby's support, and that helps.

This definitely isn't a get rich quick scheme, though if I'm lucky, and do it right, there is the possibility of making money at it. I think I'm going to go revisit those pages of my dusty novel--perhaps while the kiddies are still abed dreaming. I usually take that time to sleep too, but I know I could get by with a bit less sleep, and feel even more fulfilled than I already do (since I get a lot from being a mom).

If you're a writer looking to improve your writing skills or get your work published, there are some great places to start out there:

Writer's Digest is a great way to get started with access to books, magazines, competitions and more.

Zoetrope is a great place to network with other writers and share work. Though it is not one-sided and you require work on your side. The site is entirely free.

WritersNet also has it's value for the writer, publisher and literary agents out there with its resources and discussion forums. Another free site!

WritersMarket is a great resource if you're wanting to know where to submit your work. You can even try it online risk free for seven days. If you buy the book, I believe they give you a promo code to access their internet resources for less.

You shouldn't have to spend a lot of money, or even any at all to make this happen though. Your local library and the internet are great places to look for information when your wallet is empty. If you do have some money to spend and want to comparison shop to get more for your money. Amazon and Ebay are good places to look.

So that's what's been on my mind today. I'm glad to have shared it with you:) Keep dreaming and make it a reality!






Tuesday, February 24, 2009

In the Interest of Making Money

Today I've been mainly focusing my efforts on getting this blog off the ground. Why? Because done right, it can bring in a pretty decent income. The last few days I've been searching what seems like every inch of the internet on how to make a successful blog (meaning one that earns me some much needed cash).

There's no simple answer on what makes a blog successful. You have to talk about something people want to read about. You have to know what you're talking about (or eventually people will find you out and lose interest), and I think you also have to enjoy doing it.

Once you have a topic and the knowledge to get going on it, you have to find where you want your blog. Obviously, I chose Blogger (http://www.blogger.com/) and so far I'm happy with my choice. There are plenty of free sites to publish on, and you get decent tools to build your page with.

Those first steps are certainly the easiest part. After you get going on your page, you can monetize your site with adsense. Google puts in ads that sponsor your site, and that's where you earn revenue. The only thing left is to get people to come. It's not as simple as sending out an email to all your friends and family, telling them to come see your site.

Before you get them to come though, you have to have something to keep them coming. It's a good idea to have your site ready before you open the floodgates to traffic. You have to have a friendly layout, good widgets and enough information to keep them reading. Here are some sites I found to help you on the gadgets needed for blogging http://www.bloggertipsandtricks.com/ and the know-how to make it profitable http://easycashrake.blogspot.com/.

The next step is you have to list with search engines. Some sites will do multiple listings (such as http://www.submitexpress.com/, http://www.selfpromotion.com/ and http://www.addme.com/). I found a lot of useful information about web marketing on http://www.philiphumbert.com/WebMarketing.htm.

Be sure, once your site is ready and listed, that you don't leave it at that. You still need to network. Find forums to discuss your blog. You can connect with other bloggers and get your site known. Here is a site giving you ideas on how to do that: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1388889/how_to_boost_your_blogs_popularity_.html?cat=59

None of this is really difficult to do, but it does take time. I think the hardest part for me was the fact that I do still have to perform my mommy duties while working on this. But once it gets going off the ground, it should be much easier to maintain.

The best part of all of this is that I get to make money doing two things I already love doing: researching and writing.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Juggling is definitely the right word for it

I've found that writing articles is very much a job. I don't know how I'd ever considered it as anything else. One thing about me is that I always like to give all that I have to whatever job I'm doing. Usually, that means parenting, now it's also writing.

I'm obviously going to have to learn balance. I have found that if I work first thing in the morning on the house and family stuff, that leaves me more uninterrupted time in the early afternoon (well, unless you count a toddler climbing up on my lap every now and then to see what I'm doing and to make sure she's still my priority as an interruption--or my preschooler coming to tell me she wants a snack).

The problem I'm having is turning the article writing part of my brain off while I'm trying to concentrate on kids and homework in the late afternoon. I keep thinking about what I'm going to write next and how I'm going to advertise it. Yes, advertising, unfortunately is a big part of being a successful blogger and in article writing (if you're going the route I'm going with eHow and adsense).

This could be because this is all so new to me. I'm hoping that once I've gained momentum, things will be easier and I'll be better able to change channels. I'm sure that's the case, right?

As for the business side of writing, I found some encouragement, and more tips on this website: http://freelancewriting.suite101.com/topiclist/article.cfm/how_writers_can_create_passive_income
If you have some writing skills and are looking for a way to make some money, I suggest you check it out.

Anyway, on that note, I have another article on eHow. I've already talked a bit about it in my blog here, but it goes into more detail in the eHow article. Feel free to check it out!

How to Get a lower Rate on your Satellite Bill
http://www.ehow.com/how_4804929_lower-rate-satellite-bill.html

But before you go, take a look around here. I've got plenty of money-saving tips to help you out and there's more to come. Don't forget to tell your friends!

Friday, February 20, 2009

Can I Start Sharing the Financial Burden?

I've spent much of my marriage content to let my husband make the bulk of our income. It was convenient for me because it enabled me to spend as much quality time with my kids as I wanted. It seems those days are coming to an end, and I'm left with mixed feelings about it.

My husband has been cut down on his hours at work. This was nothing new at first, he's a journeyman plumber, and so the company he's been working at for 14 years has definitely been affected by this economy. Nearly two years ago he went from working 60 hours a week down to around 45. Honestly, we were all a bit thrilled by this because it meant that we got to spend more time as a family with him.

Last year he was lucky to make 40 hours. It made things tight for Christmas, but forced me to look for ways to save money, and I feel very enlightened as a result. I'm a coupon-clipping, internet searching fool now, and loving every minute of it.

Now, he's been cut down to just over 30 hours. I have to admit, I'm more than a little fearful about this. We have a little money in the bank, but that's only going to cover the loss for so long. It's made me more creative in how I manage my bills and creditors too. But for once, that's not going to be enough to keep our heads above water.

Hubby suggested he get a second job. While I didn't denounce that idea, it got me thinking: why should the financial burden be placed solely on him? What can I do to help him? What's more, what can I do that won't take me away from home and my kids?

My answer? Writing. I'm happy to get back to it after a long break. I've started writing articles for eHow.com, I've started networking to draw more attention to my writing and I've learned that it's possible to make money doing something I really love to do. How much money? I don't know yet, but it's good to vent while I'm finding out.

Getting Back on the Horse, so to Speak

So I've taken some time off of writing for a while. Why? Because my family grew from five to six last year. This is, of course, counting my spouse and me. I'm not that crazy--yet.

I'm very happy spending my time taking care of my family. To me, along with God, they come first. There's nothing more gratifying than knowing that you are helping to send a great person out into the world. At least, that's what I hope I'm doing. It's what I'm trying to do anyway.

I've always loved to write, for as long as I can remember. At nine years old I was drawing up my own children's books and trying to sell them to my neighbors for a quarter! No, I'm not kidding. I even managed to catch one nice grandmother on a good day and she bought one from me.

In sixth grade I was making story books for the kindergarten classes. This meant I got out of my classwork long enough to go read my creation to the kiddies. That was cerainly a plus!

By junior high I was writing poetry. All of it was about love, of course. My friends thought I was brilliant, and I have to admit it went to my head. I have to laugh now when I go back and read some of what I wrote then. At least I can say that I had a knack for rhyming.

In high school the school newspaper caught my eye. I spent my last three years on staff and doing mainly book reviews because they were the easiest and most entertaining for me. Of course, I'd have done better if I'd reviewed more of what other people were interested in, and not the romance books I was obsessed with at the time. My teacher did manage to yank a few public interest and feature articles out of me, and even patted me on the back for them, but they were never my preference.

My Creative Writing class was a blessing to me. I got to learn that not all poetry has to rhyme. I also learned that I wasn't nearly as good at it as I thought I was. But I found a love for creating fiction. It's stuck with me ever since and I have a long list of short stories to show for it.

I'd planned on going out into the world, becoming a world famous novelist, and maybe, eventually starting a family. You know what they say about best laid plans...

Instead, I fell inlove, got married, graduated as one of eight valedictorians (I only wish I were kidding), and gave up my full scholarship to start a family. Yes, it was exactly in that order.

Once I became a mother, I tried to continue writing, but my hands were so full of learning to be a mommy to my beautiful baby boy. Over the years he was followed-up with three perfect baby girls. Since adding to my family, I've picked up my writing now and again, whenever time, and yes, inspiration allowed.

I'm hoping to make a bigger impression in that world of writing this time. I'm ready to get back on the horse. I'm ready to start juggling more things and to learn and grow more as a writer and as a mother.

As a result of this particular juggling act, I've written two articles on eHow. I would love for you read them, as I think they will apply to most people in this hard economy. I planning on making a habit/job of this. Wish me luck!

How to Bring Your Family Closer Together without spending a lot of money
http://www.ehow.com/how_4799283_together-spending-lot-of-money.html
How to Save Money On Groceries
http://www.ehow.com/how_4800520_save-money-groceries.html