What does writing cost?  The first answer that pops into my head is “nothing.” But it does cost time and what is your time worth?  What am I not getting done because I’m writing?  (TV? Dusting? Reading? Walking the dog? Visiting w/friends?) We only have 24 hours in every day and most of us have to be at the day job working (at least 8 hours). Don’t forget to allow for sleeping and eating. So what is left? Not a lot.  You have to be choosy how you spend it.

Then there’s the whole cost of learning the craft.  Books. Writer’s groups. Workshops and conferences.  Computer or typewriter. Ink. Paper. Envelopes. Postage. (Although email contest entries and queries are becoming more popular and are free.) The first couple of years after I started the business of writing I found I had a lot to learn. Not only did I purchase books about writing and editing, I also researched the author’s I liked in the genre I wanted to write.  Hum. Again, a necessary time consumer. Attending at least one conference each year is a must to improving your craft.

What does it cost you personally?  Blood. Sweat. Tears. (All of that.) There’s the whole rejection thing, and it takes a few bites out of your confidence. You do learn patience and humility in abundance. And if you are very lucky you meet some fantastic people in the writing realm (other writers, editors, agents, teachers and the like).  These people are priceless and worth every minute spent getting to know them.

Keep in mind that publishing shouldn’t cost you anything (except wine to toast your victory), publishers pay you! Granted marketing your book will cost you time and gas money, but hey, it’s all a part of the business of writing. And the places you will go and the people you will see will make your life even richer.  It takes about six months before you will see a royalty check, that is if you earn back your advance. Is writing worth the cost? (Only you can answer this question.)

I love it, so I’ll keep my day job and do my writing, reading, researching, networking and marketing when I’m not working for the supplier of my paycheck. (Not only do they pay my bills, but I find good writing fodder working with people day in and day out.) So, you decide…what is the cost of writing and is it worth that cost to you?