90 Random Thoughts About Writing

It has been my experience that the longer one spends in the freelance trenches, the greater one's insights. Experience leads to expertise, which in turn can reveal a tremendous number of professional truths. Here are 90 random thoughts on the art, business, and craft of freelance writing culled from nearly five decades in the profession.

- BY DON VAUGHAN

1. A successful career as a freelance writer—one in which you actually make a living—takes a tremendous amount of work. It's not for the faint of heart.

2. Knowledge is power, and this is especially true when it comes to freelancing. To be successful, you must know how publishing works, what editors do, how to craft an effective query, and more.

3. Writing is a job. Your creativity, imagination, and talent are commodities you sell for money.

4. At the start of your career, you will have to decide if you want to be a general freelancer or a niche writer. There are pros and cons to both.

5. Pitch stories you would want to read if they were written by someone else.

6. The best way to learn to write well is to read writers who write well. Actively study their work, and ask yourself: What are they doing right?

7. A serious writer stands by their work. They accept the accolades when the work is good and take the punches when it isn't. This is how you grow professionally.

8. Do not write for free. If the editor is making a buck, you deserve a quarter.

9. If a publication owes you money, do everything you can to get paid. The fight shouldn't end until the publication pays up or goes out of business.

10. There are a lot of scams out there aimed at writers. Be careful and do your due diligence.

11. Important professional relationships are established where writers and editors meet and mingle, such as conferences, workshops, and readings. Take advantage of these opportunities.

12. Always express gratitude to your sources, who are making available their time and expertise at no cost.

13. Don't be afraid to play with different genres and forms. You might surprise yourself.

14. The path to becoming a better writer has no end.

15. Professional experience is worth more than a college degree.

16. Always go the extra mile to confirm a fact.