You may have heard the theory that, in order to become really good at any skill, you need to invest 10,000 hours in it. This holds true for writing as well as any other skill.
The question is, how are you going to get those 10,000 hours of practice if you want to become a professional writer? It stands to reason that the only way you’re going to get any better at writing is to actually write (“How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice!”). But where can you practice if you need a paycheck?
Well, you’re in luck. This is an age where content is king. Storytelling is at a premium, with social media everywhere you look–and all of them needing a script or outline or message to deliver! Most of the non-professional websites & social media “influencers” are not looking for an expensive professional writing service. They’re going to be happy with a freelance writer who’s willing to charge a cheaper rate–and you’ll be getting in that practice. They’re going to be more collaborative than writing that novel will be, too. You’ll need to communicate your vision, check their reaction to your progress, and be prepared to edit and revise upon demand. This will give you instant feedback for improvement, which you’re not going to get cooped up in that windowless office working on the Great American Novel.
So think about it before you dive straight in. Get some practice writing under your belt so your first novel is more likely to sell instead of sink.