Are you a hobby writer?

copyright Kim Smith 2008


Are you a hobby writer? What is that? Well, according to Merriam Webster, it is :
-- a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation--

I think I am a hobby writer to some extent. There is nothing more relaxing than sinking into a chair, pulling my laptop onto my lap, and tapping the keys for a few hours. The resulting work can be something funny, enlightening, freeing. No matter if I am writing about a young Elf looking for his identity, a woman from a different time looking for her missing husband, a mysterious man seeking revenge, or poetry, I am happy.

I remind myself as I work hard to promote my new "profession" as a published author, that the whole reason for doing what I do, and love to do, is because it is something relaxing. I believe the person who said "unpublished authors should enjoy their freedom, because once you are published it changes". Not in a bad way, just in a different way. No longer do you focus on story alone, but now must consider the audience who will read that story, and try to get it done under a deadline. Deadlines are anything BUT relaxing, but again, you just gotta love the process.

As summer really takes over my region of the world I realize how much I love the relaxation side of writing. My husband bought us a nice swing and we go out each evening and sit together and discuss our day and just relax. When he is otherwise occupied, I take the laptop there, and in the shade of my big tree, just let everything flow onto the page.

ahh! real relaxation. And to think, once I thought being a hobby writer meant you didn't get paid for it! ha! This is payment one could love for a lifetime.

So, if the world asks if you are a hobby writer, heartily tell them yes, you are. I know I will.