Freelance Writing has been an intriguing means of earning income and motivation for expanding my intellectual capabilities. I appreciate the higher tier area of the industry that continually provokes growth in my linguistic and business skills. I am fortunate to have access to premium clients whose insistence on the utmost level of standards aligns with my desire to maintain those same measures in my work.

I have also been privy to a more exploitative side of freelance writing which I feel should be phased out eventually. I am hoping that as more quality writers take a stand for what is ethical, these types of clients will have less power to engage in what is basically slave labor. I have also witnessed these sort of businesses in other fields in which I have done freelance work, such as the technology industry.

It is unfortunate that a brainwashing occurs, leaving many freelancers believing they need to accept this substandard treatment and pay. I hope freelance writers and other types of independent contractors will explore the entirety of a field, rather than accepting that their current experience is how their services will be valued and compensated elsewhere. Once you have seen the full range of possibilities, your outlook and hopefulness are greatly enhanced. The key is to remain persistent and have faith even when you have no tangible results.

I have undergone that same shift in my freelance writing career, in regard to having faith. I have seen the success of other writers and I am cognizant of how much money can be made writing. I am aware of both the lowest and highest freelance writing rates being offered currently per word and for various content formats. I also have a realistic perspective and take into consideration, a writer’s experience, educational level, and other pertinent criteria. However, I also know my worth and will not be convinced I need to work in servitude. Especially considering I live in the United States and must accommodate a high cost of living.

There are plenty of practices that take place in other arenas besides freelance writing that are immoral. Whether you accept them by convincing yourself they are not occurring is your choice. I feel it is best to face the harsh realities sooner than later and begin making provisions for alternative client dealings. Less time is wasted functioning in this manner and you will be closer to attaining your ultimate freelance writing career.
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​As freelance writers, particularly as ghostwriters, we are required to follow certain style guides and create content according to the stipulations of the client. I have no problem with that, considering I am being paid for work. The money is certainly appreciated. However, the issues transpire when new clients ask for writing samples and you are unable to reveal the pieces you have written for other companies due to non-disclosure agreements. It is ironic that so many buyers are stringent about reviewing writing samples before paying for writing services but they are reluctant to provide credit in the form of a byline.

I find it important to work on your own projects simultaneously so you can recall the freedom associated with the creative expression inherent in writing. It is also encouraging to have your name associated with the content you have written and the ability to use these works as samples. Setting up your own site or acquiring a freelance writing portfolio hosted elsewhere to display these is advisable.

I am looking forward to more opportunities to express my thoughts and add creative input. I am optimistic increasing respect will be shown for freelance writers and the revenue we generate for businesses. Hopefully, there will be a substantial merge in recognition for the contribution of writers via bylines and payment to develop sales maximizing material. Nonetheless, I value the clients who have treated me fairly, provided reasonable compensation, and conducted themselves professionally. I will continue to welcome this caliber of writing assignments. If you are also interested in obtaining my freelance writing services, please visit My Services (Contact) page.

​For many people, working from home is the ultimate dream. Yes, it’s definitely got its dreamlike components; but there’s another side to it that entails a lot of hard work and discipline. How awesome to wake up whenever you want, live according to your own schedule, be your own boss! However, all of that can get completely out of control, if you don’t add discipline and some sort of routine into the mix. You can’t for instance, just wake up whenever you want, if that means sleeping for so many hours that you don’t put in enough hours of actual work.
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There’s freedom in the sense of doing things the way you like, creating your own schedule; but many don’t realize the added pressures and responsibilities involved with being your own boss. Once you make that shift, everything rests on your shoulders. You’re the leader now. You can’t just sit waiting for someone to tell you what to do. Many people complain about someone bossing them around and hovering over them. However, once you realize that safety net is completely gone, it can take a bit of mental adjustment, a certain mind shift to cope with the realization. You now look around and realize, you just stepped into a whole new world!
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Working from home can be like a strange new planet, a really cool one, but a foreign realm most people don’t quite understand. You may find it harder to relate to people outside of the working from home lifestyle. They may not truly understand what you go through on a daily basis and how hard it can be sometimes to manage the ability to continue living the lifestyle. To me, working from home is a blessing. I feel lucky I get to enjoy many attributes associated with it; but I also know I work hard to cultivate and hold on to any opportunities I get. I certainly won’t allow anyone to drag me down or try to convince me to neglect my responsibilities.

When you’re working from home, I think it’s best to try to create some sort of routine. However, there are times you may find yourself working while others who have a traditional employment schedule are enjoying free time. They may not understand why you’re working from home on a weekend or holiday. As self-employed individuals, we have many perks, such as being in charge of our own schedules. However, we also have the responsibility of taking care of things an employer would usually take care of. For instance, ensuring we pay appropriate taxes on our income; and making our own accommodations for earning income during holidays, sick days or vacations. There are pros and cons. Overall, I think the pros outweigh the cons. I enjoy my freedom. I have no problem disciplining myself and doing what I need to do in order to continue enjoying the blessing of working from home.
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​Although working from home entails quite a bit of hard work, the fruits of your labor can be amazing. There are so many things I appreciate about the freedom that working from home provides. If I want to take a break from working, go take a drive, grab a coffee, go shopping, it’s perfectly fine. I’m working according to my own schedule so I can come and go as I please. If the weather conditions are miserable outside or I don’t feel well, I can work comfortably from home. Plus, there are so many things you can write off on your taxes, as someone who’s self-employed.

I’m truly enjoying my journey working from home. I’m looking forward to more opportunities coming my way, learning new skills; and continuing to build more relationships with companies who are assisting me with the ability to work in this sort of manner. I think each person in this lifestyle ultimately finds their own unique path. What I’ve learned, is that my particular skills and who I am as an individual are determining exactly the type of work I end up doing. I don’t think anyone can really tell someone exactly how to go about this working from home adventure. You kind of just need to find what suits you, figure out what you enjoy doing, what you’re good at and which type of companies are a fit for you to work with.

I’ve been working from home in a diverse range of capacities, based on my particular skills. There are companies I work with in a manner that does not necessitate promoting anything publicly. However, I also collaborate with brands, which does involve sharing products I enjoy. You’re always welcome to see what types of products I’ve been testing lately, and my feedback regarding my experience with them.

Currently I have some of my favorite products in the Shop My Faves section of my site. I occasionally update my site, so perhaps if you’re reading this in the future, I may have moved that page. For now, you can just click here to view that page. You can also opt in to my email list to keep updated with how I’m doing. Right now you’ll find that option via the blue Sign up! tab/Sign up for updates! pop up, by scrolling to the top of my site.

I wish you the best of luck in your own working from home journey. I hope you find a way to integrate all of your skills and special attributes that make you a unique individual; into a beneficial vehicle to facilitate the income and lifestyle of your dreams working from home.

*This post is sponsored by Sogni Di Cristallo. All opinions are my own. 

I have just been amazed by the beauty of the handcrafted artistry of Sogni Di Cristallo Murano glass. Watching the antique glass-making techniques of the Sogni Di Cristallo Glassmakers is quite a sight to see! The time, care and precision put into each intricate piece of blown glass makes owning these remarkable items a very special experience. It's absolutely mesmerizing watching the Glassmakers at work...such a calming, relaxing experience. Watch the amazing process!

The unique colors, details and elements of nature featured in Sogni Di Cristallo Murano glass are certainly dream-like. Sogni Di Cristallo pieces are a rare exquisite touch that add a special ambiance to the decor within one's home. Sogni Di Cristallo collections are also featured in high-end restaurants, stores and hotels. It makes sense that luxury, quality establishments would want only the best to make their guests and customers feel comfortable. The Sogni Di Cristallo Vintage Collection takes comfort and luxury to a whole new level!

Look at the amazing focal point the Sogni Di Cristallo Fiordaliso Chandelier creates in this room. The gorgeous pink tones pull the whole unique look together. It's wonderful Sogni Di Cristallo makes it so easy to conveniently tailor a room to your preferences, by choosing the specific number of lights and color based on the type of look you're going for. Their pieces range from classic to trendy so there is plenty of leeway for finding sophisticated Murano glass lighting to compliment your decor.  

Here is the Sogni Di Cristallo Fiordaliso Chandelier with a lesser number of lights and in a different color. How fabulous the same chandelier can look so different and create such variety with a few minor changes!

The Sogni Di Cristallo Fellini Chandelier looks absolutely stunning among this chic decor. Sogni Di Cristallo chandeliers truly create a magnificent centerpiece in a room. The golden color of this particular frame nicely accentuates the wood portion of the ceiling. The texture of the Murano glass balances the textures of the brick wall, decorative plants and furnishings.

The Sogni Di Cristallo Fellini Chandelier also looks impeccable with a chrome frame. The handcrafted Venetian glass sparkles brilliantly!

The elegant flair of the Sogni Di Cristallo Mastroianni Chandelier is reminiscent of a gorgeous spiraling staircase. The intricate inner details of gold and amber make it even more amazing!

The ​icy cool look of the Sogni Di Cristallo Crono Chandelier has a wintry feel. The handcrafted artistry creates a distinctive texture similar to icicles.

The natural elements in Sogni Di Cristallo Murano glass and the Vintage Collection are awe-inspiring. The lighting pieces create a mood of relaxation, wonderment and sophistication. They transform a room into an utterly enchanting environment, bring focus to a primary stunning feature, and cohesiveness to all decor components. Sogni Di Cristallo provides amazing craftsmanship, ancient Venetian glass-making techniques and an exceptional history. The knowledge and experience gained through years of tradition contribute to the superb expertise of the Sogni Di Cristallo Glassmakers and their stellar execution. To experience the luxury, beauty and elegance of fine Murano glass, visit the Sogni Di Cristallo site and view the Vintage Collection.