From writing for pennies to writing for a living
¿A qué te dedicas?
Soy escritora…
It was only recently at my boyfriend's concert that I could answer the question to “¿A qué te dedicas?” with conviction.
Once upon a full moon
On the full moon of November, I wrote to my email list that I wanted to release the narratives of the limiting beliefs that had held me back.
The narratives of…
“Oh, I could never make good money as a writer.”
“Writing jobs are just stress that I don’t want in my life.”
“I’ve never used my journalism degree.”
Instead, I looked to drop my former narratives and transmute limiting beliefs.
As my own editor, I rewrote those beliefs:
Writers can make good money. I intend to make damn good money as a writer.
I intend to create the writing jobs that I really want in my life.
I’ve always used my journalism degree.
I intend to taste the freedom of having the power over what I publish and receiving even appreciation and financial support for this kind of authenticity.
The results…
After starting a Substack on March 2, I’ve crossed over to the shore of Freedom or living my dream.
My dream looked like…
Making damn good money as a writer. Thanks to a new job, I at least make a comfortable living, period…
Writing a paid newsletter. This was a dream I hadn’t imagined for myself until coming across this platform. Even with just 2 paid subscribers at $8 a month or $80 a year, that $160 has supported and nourished me. It has helped shift my perspective and given me hope and truly life-changing motivation, even with my tiny list of 200 subscribers who appreciate my writing. Thank you, all my subscribers. Artists need their audience, and I’m so grateful you’re here.
Working with people in community. I’m sincerely grateful to have made contact with more writers, marketers, and practitioners deeply invested in empathy and equity.
Launching a kick-ass podcast. Lol, truth be told, I launched my podcast because I was feeling lonely in my freelance work life as a solopreneur. I missed out on “team meetings,” boardroom conversations, and whiteboard sessions (even of the Zoom, Loom and Slack variety). I just wanted to find a way to genuinely connect and have meaningful conversations.
Since the launch of the podcast, I’ve actually had to back down from production and even turn away aligned clients for projects, because of being saturated with my current content director role.
A wonderful problem to have.
But no worries. Though I’ve already released more episodes statistically than most podcasters ever do—I know there is a whooole lot more I can improve upon!
I look forward to continued collaborations, conversations, and insights from practitioners passionate about equity in holistic health and healing arts.
The July 24th drop won’t disappoint! We will hear from a decolonial yoga educator who has my heart.
If you are someone wondering if writing or money or both will truly be part of your future—
Even if you are a member of the Global Majority—
Even if you’re one of the 37% of Americans without the cash to pay for a $400 emergency....
Even if you’ve been chronically underemployed (I feel you on this one hardcore)…
And even in (especially in) the age of AI—
Hang in there.
Your words are powerful beyond measure.
Empathy-driven marketing from an authentic human heart is more important than ever.
Your words and perspective are needed to impact a world longing for justice, wealth, and regeneration for all.
I know a part of me had never truly imagined or believed I could be supported full-time as a writer or thrive with an online business.
Thank you for letting me celebrate in ways big and small with you.
Offers. Ofertas. Ofertones.
Rewrite your beliefs
You can grab the framework I used to rewrite my beliefs. This is a free 3-day retreat with podcasts 15 minutes each or less. It includes additional written comments to contemplate. It’s specifically geared to health and wellness business owners looking to channel the right messaging and clients into their world. Yet suitable for all creatives.
Join the 40-Day Portal
Last year I did a 39-day yoga challenge ending on my 39th birthday. This year, starting July 28, you are invited to join me for a self-directed 40-day retreat of choice. Will it be 40 days of writing? 40 days of yoga? 40 days of rest? You decide, with community and accountability. Sign up to my waitlist for the 40-day portal. Free for paid subscribers. More details to come.
Write on Medium
I’m thinking Medium is the next frontier. Now that I’m writing for a living, I know I’m hungry for more and would read more and publish more if given the time and awareness to dedicate. If you want to join Medium’s micro-challenge in June to publish your first article in July, please let me know! June is almost over, but I would love co-motivation in publishing there.
Publish a website
I collaborate with a wonderful web design agency to help publish well-designed, strategic sites quickly and with ongoing community support. If you’re interested in publishing a site, I have openings in September. Sign up for my waitlist to express interest and find out more.
Schedule a reading
Last but not least, my new line of work includes personal development in the form of intuitive readings (think astrology or tarot). If you are questioning life’s big questions—who you are, why you’re here, what you’re meant to do for money and career, or questions on love and relationships… Express your interest here for a reading or for this content.
Read More
Want the TLDR version of the last 15 years of going from writing for pennies to writing for a living? Visit my blog.
Endlessly yours,
p.s. This newsletter is dedicated to the late Holly J. Wolcott, and to great writers past, present, and future.
