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Maximizing Your Time

So, I'm sure many of you out there could use a little ego boost with your writing. What if there was a great way to do this, and maybe make a little money (really little money) from it at the same time? You can.

I just recently signed up to be a part of the Yahoo!Contributor Network. What this means is that I am able write about whatever I want, whenever I want and have it all (almost) published.

Some of you may think this is a waste of time, or maybe even beneath you. But, I don't look at it like that. In order to be a better writer, we have to actually write, as often as we can, when we can, and learn, learn, learn the craft -- from content to editing. And to be published during that journey? Wouldn't that be swell?

Well, here's an example. I reworked an article I wrote months ago about how just doing a few simple things to your house, can make it look new again. I called it Live in a New House (... without having to move). It was published almost immediately, and I got a couple dollars for it.

Then, they just accepted an article I wrote about thrift stores in the Sacramento area, because I not only live in Sacramento, but I love thrift stores. I combined what I know, with what I love, and an article was born! Here it is: Top Three Thrift Stores in Sacramento

When publications are few and (very) far between, or if perhaps you have yet to be published at all, having the opportunity to write what you want to write about -- and have it published -- is like finding a pot of gold.

Yes, you have to write. Yes, you have to edit. And yes, by all means, you have to make it look like professional journalism. But, through trial and error and through looking at other folks' writings, you can certainly find a few things to write about, in short quantities, and have fun with it all at the same time.

You'll not only learn how to write better, but think critically, perfect your editing, and have your name published on the World Wide Web. And if you're extra lucky, you might make a few dollars a month.

I highly recommend doing this, even if you only write one article. What's not to love about seeing a great article --with your name on it -- in print (er ... online. But, hey you can print it out, right?)

Happy writing!
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