The myth of "all in"
(Plus a free webinar on July 29)
When I first started writing fiction, I dreamed of the day I’d become a full-time novelist. It sounded so romantic! It also sounded non-negotiable. How else could a person write a book a year? (As I would soon discover, in regular one-hour increments.)
Fifteen years later, I’ve been incredibly fortunate: There have been stretches of time where I’ve made enough from my books to turn that old dream into a reality. But something funny happened along the way. When I had the entire workday to write, I’d end up writing less—not more. So ... I never gave up having a secondary businesses (first as a health journalist, then as a coach). If my royalties dipped, I didn’t panic and try to sell a manuscript that wasn’t ready; I knew my bills would still get paid. And it turns out, that is the ultimate creative freedom.
This isn’t to say having two careers is the only way to be a novelist. I have clients and colleagues who write full-time and love it. But if you’re not at a place where that’s possible—or you’re multi-passionate, as I am—I’m writing this to let you know that you can absolutely be “all in” on fiction without devoting the entire day to it. Personally, having another business is why I’ve been able to create a prolific, profitable fiction career.
Several dictionaries define “all in” as being completely committed to an endeavor. Note that complete commitment doesn’t require taking a vow of poverty. It also doesn’t mean setting your nervous system on fire because it’s taking longer than you planned to sell a book. It simply means you’re willing to keep showing up until you succeed.
As my clients will attest, I believe in talking frankly about money—because financial concerns keep too many writers from going for their fiction goals. If you want to go deeper on this topic, check out the latest episode of the Career Novelist podcast.
Then, consider registering for the free Be Your Own Benefactor webinar on July 29th. Among other things, I’ll discuss:
The surprising (research-backed) connection between cash and creativity
How to choose a side hustle or small business that benefits your fiction career
Proven strategies for juggling business and books—without working around the clock
Here’s the link for more information and to register. I’d love to see you there.
—Camille
I love this. I’ve consistently made mid six figures the past four years from lucrative “day job” work that has allowed me to sock away college tuition for all three of my kids. While also getting novel ready for submission, starting a free substack, and getting essays published in major publications. Prior to that, when my only focus was writing fiction, I couldn’t even finish a draft. Somehow fitting my creative work into the margins works better for me.
Love this! I recently started freelance writing for a magazine. It's helping me achieve my goal of having a profitable writing business while I'm querying my debut novel.