The Benefits of a Part Time Job

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I jumped into freelance writing full-time right after college, much to my mother’s dismay. It isn’t that she didn’t want me to be a successful writer, but she worried that I wouldn’t be able to afford my bills after my savings gave out in a few months. We talked about it, though, and I reassured her that I was more than willing to take on a part-time job, even doing something like working at a fast food restaurant, in order to pay the rent if I had to.

I’m happy to say that I’ve never had the need to do that. I make enough as a writer to support myself in the area where I live, though I do have to say that I’m in awe of writers living where rent and general cost of living isn’t as moderate as it is here. I know I wouldn’t make enough at this point to live in a large city like NYC or even Philly. I’m getting there, though. I think I’ve accomplished a lot in three years.

But that’s not the point. Last month, I did take on a part-time job, and rigth away, everyone right away assumed that I was having financial problems. Nope. I just liked the job and thought it would be nice to get out of my house. I work about 15 hours a week at a day care center now, and I’m so glad I made that decision.

If you need the money, get a part-time job. That’s what my mom would call a “no-brainer.” If you don’t need the money, though, you may still want to consider a part-time job. Here’s why:

• It’s nice to get out of your house without having to spend money at a coffee shop or restaurant.
• A part-time job is a great way to meet new people.
• You’re learning skills at a part-time job that may qualify you to write about a new topic (for example, I feel qualified to write about some childcare topics, where I haven’t in the past, since I’m not a mom).
• The money is reliable. You’re getting paid a fairly set amount every week or every two weeks, which makes budgeting much easier.
• You’re networking with people. You’ll be surprised to find out who’s looking for a writer. Your manager may want help starting a blog. Your co-worker may have a sister who needs a professional letter written. A customer who finds out that you’re a writer may hire you for some editing work.

My decision to take on a part-time job was right for me, and it may be a positive thing in your life as well. It isn’t for everyone, of course, but I find that working outside of writing for a few hours every week has actually made me a better writer.

Do you have a part-time job? Do you do it for the money or another reason?

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