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Can I have a full time job and still have time to do creative writing as a side gig I am really interested in making a career out of creative writing but am unsure if I can support myself that way.?

I was thinking of going to school for psychology, but writing is what I really want to do. I was thinking of making that a minor.

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Ricardo’s Answer

Creative writing is truly a wonderful endeavor, and the best part is that you don't need a degree to excel in it! Plus, it can seamlessly blend into your life, whether you have a full-time job or need to balance multiple side gigs. The key is your passion for writing and the commitment to make time for it, no matter your circumstances.

Take, for example, the movie "Night Fangs" available on Tubi TV - a thrilling horror flick. The unique thing about this film is that the script was handwritten by the filmmaker in small notebooks inside his car while he worked at a valet parking job. After work, he'd go home and type it up on his PC. The movie was shot in 2004 and has been captivating audiences worldwide for 20 years. And guess what? I know all this because that guy inside the car was me.

So go ahead, plan for an alternative career, and never stop writing. Remember, we're all on this creative journey together, and if I could make it happen, so can you! Keep believing in yourself, and your stories will soar to unimaginable heights.
Thank you comment icon Your story is very inspirational, thank you for taking the time to respond. ☺️ Maria
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Briana’s Answer

Maria,

Minoring in creative writing and majoring in another field sounds like a great idea. I also do writing "on the side" while working in healthcare. Entertainment is often feast or famine, so it's practical to have another job to fall back on. With that in mind, try picking a career path that allows for flexibility in its hours and yearly schedule so that you can have a good amount of time set aside to write and attend workshops or meet ups. What's important is to write and have a finished product that you can either self publish or shop around to literary agencies, and that means you need to allow yourself the time and space to write even if you have other responsibilities.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Maria
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Tom’s Answer

Everyone that's given you advice so far is pretty much on the mark. But while creative writing as a side gig is a fun idea, keep in mind that if you're serious about it, this type of interest will take up A LOT of your time. Making sure that you're financially stable is important, since this will end up supporting your creative writing initially and perhaps even well beyond the start of your foray into the world of writing. This field isn't something you can jump into without the realization that yes, it will consume you if you let it, and no, it's not the sure thing that some might think it is. Some of us that have been writing for years had to make a lot of compromises along the way after realizing that unless we jump through the series of hoops that publishers and agents want, we won't get anywhere with the stories we want to push. But the fact is that creative writing is not a hobby, or career, that's for those who can't commit to it.
So really, my advice is this. Make sure your finances are in order and you're making enough to support this lifestyle, because that's what it is. Striking a balance between your primary source of income and a creative writing gig is tough, no ifs, ands, or buts about it.
It's worth it though, if you have a story to tell.
Thank you comment icon You’re very blunt about your perspective on this, I really appreciate that. Thank you.. 😊 Maria
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Lori’s Answer

I double majored in Psychology/English, worked in social services for a few years, and transitioned to graphic design after discovering my passion for it while designing a newsletter. It can be challenging to be a paid writer, so I decided to just write (mostly for fun) on the side. Then I went back to school and obtained an associate's degree in graphic design from a community and technical college.
Thank you comment icon I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question. Maria
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Ann’s Answer

Hi Maria. Most people have side gigs these days. I have been in Corporate America for decades, and I have almost always done other things in my spare time. It's a matter of planning, structure and discipline (and getting enough rest/not overdoing it). And you'll be surprised what you learn and who you meet at your "day job" who can help you with your writing endeavor. Best of luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for giving me advice. Maria
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