It is a strange way to make a living. But if you are lucky, it will be what you do as well as what you love. If you don't love it, don't try it. But if you'd love to write and find it incredibly difficult, painful and stressful, then learn how to do it. The more you study your craft, hang out with writers, and the more you write, the quicker you see your frustrations fade.

It is a strange way to make a living. But if you are lucky, it will be what you do as well as what you love. If you don't love it, don't try it. But if you'd love to write and find it incredibly difficult, painful and stressful, then learn how to do it. The more you study your craft, hang out with writers, and the more you write, the quicker you see your frustrations fade.

I can guarantee you periods of great frustration while your aspirations outreach your skill level. But you can count on them becoming fewer, less intense, and farther apart as you progress from apprentice to accomplished writer.

Why would you want to do this -- this writing thing?

It is a trade you can ply anywhere
Every single time you sit down to write, you get better at it
It requires almost no tools, inventory, apparatus or cash investment
You are completely responsible for the end product
You can take full credit for success
It is an occupation you can do even after your back goes out
Your words will be in print and available long after you are gone
And because it is a joy to end your day with something you can print out, read and enjoy

Advice on failure