I could go on. The reasons are many, but the biggest mistake we make about writing for a living is that it is EASY.

Some advice, if you don’t mind. Make certain that you know how to write, from a publisher’s viewpoint. Examine submission requirements for publications in which you would like to publish.

Practice writing articles–short ones at first–and send them in. You have nothing to lose. Even if they decline that particular effort, you will have taken the step of bravery: risking rejection. Get used to it. It wears off after a while–maybe a long while–but, well you see what I’m saying. If people can get used to coal-mining, they can get used to anything.

How well did you do in school or at University–or, was it a grind and the deadlines unbearably short?

Many library systems offer free or modestly priced workshops where one can brush up their skills and perhaps pick up pointers.

Have a look at the Adult Education brochures from your local Community Colleges. Any kind of writing imaginable is available through that outlet, or on the Student side (requires enrollment, but tuitions are reasonable.)

Do you belong to Civic or Religious organizations? Suggest they bring in speakers (usually free to members) and make a point to attend and follow up.

I do not believe she intended to rain on our parade, as it were when the brilliant Flannery O’Connor described creativity as “… the art of applying the seat of the pants to the seat of the chair.” However, I yelled OUCH! at that one.