About
I’d been in the nonprofit industry for over ten years when I left it (as well as a good, steady paycheck and amazing coworkers I loved) in October 2010 to strike out on my own to see what would happen. I really want to write, but because wanting to be a successful writer is like waking up one day and saying, “gee, I think I’ll just join the NFL,” I also spend time on Bark Pet Photography, the business I run with my girlfriend Kim, as well as keep my own lost dog logistics and recovery company, NinjaDog Concepts, moving along.
This blog documents my journey into the unknown. It’s the play-by-play of the mishaps and the triumphs of entrepreneurship and this budding writer’s life. They say “leap–and a net will appear.” I’m finding out if that’s true or if I’ve made the biggest mistake of my life.
I figure I should also probably note in this section that I am proud to say that I’m co-author of the book Dog Photography For Dummies, which came out in November 2011 through Wiley.
The other things you should probably know are that I’m originally from Chicago but live in SoCal now, I tend to not wear socks or shoes at home, I prefer animals to humans (although, I’m glad to see you), and my coworkers are five dogs who think they own the place.
For my more comprehensive/professional/non-illustrated web presence, visit www.sarahsypniewski.com
sarahsypniewski
Who knew doodles could be so inspiring!
True dat! Now that I know, I might be in trouble; those things are HARD!
AND congrats on the book!!
Thank you very much!
That’s awesome! I’m about to leave my current job for my dream career as a writer as well. It’s great to read about someone who’s already made the leap.
That’s what I’m here for…to pave the way a little for others. If anyone can learn something from my (mis)adventures, that’s AWESOME. Hopefully, you’ll come back and visit to take advantage of my “my life is an open blog” approach!
Hi Sarah,
I saw your blog in the Freshly Pressed section of WordPress and had a look. I really enjoyed reading through some of your posts and I was wondering if you’d be interested in helping me out with my site, http://flawlessfocus.com/.
Essentially, Flawless Focus is like an online magazine that’s designed to be used by bloggers and other writers. Anyone can sign up and submit articles to the website and get them published in the categories of their choosing (provided the posts don’t break any simple rules).
By getting posts published on Flawless Focus, you’d be contributing to a varied and interesting library of content, whilst simultaneously giving your works a greater chance of being discovered. With multiple contributors all doing the same, the site’s content will grow in size very quickly, improving its performance in search engine results and helping everyone benefit from better exposure.
The site is very new and so it’ll take a while for it to gain popularity. Right now, I’m looking for people like you to help get the site off the ground by sharing your posts on it. Any contribution you can offer would be highly appreciated.
If you don’t think the site’s for you, that’s fine. If you like the idea, however, it would be wonderful if you could help spread the word about it.
Thanks for your time,
Marc
Hey Sarah,
I was wondering about the freelance hustling. How are you getting work, actually? Do you use mediabistro or something similar, or go door to door, or did you discover an old-school rolodex full of potential freelance-friendly businesses? I’d love to hear how it all works.
Thanks,
Jessica
I look wherever I can. I’m sure I don’t even look in the standard places (cuz remember, I have no idea what I’m doing). Let’s see…in no particular order, here are some resources I’ve used or use regularly: MorningCoffee (it’s an email list that comes out every Tues), craigslist (of course), freelancewriting.com, facebook4freelancers.com, chronicle of philanthropy, and elance. I also have a Google alert up for “writer needed,” and that’s awesome. I send out customized resumes/cover letters to whatever positions/gigs I apply for. Recently, I interviewed with and was accepted into Creative Circle, a staffing agency for freelancers. Every now and then, I put something up on Facebook with a call for work, and that has actually netted me some really awesome leads. The best thing I do for myself is always ask for what I’m looking for/need. I get good work by word of mouth (ideal), but I never bank on that, so I try to actively and passively market myself however I can–whether that’s bringing up my latest project in conversation or talking up awards and recognition I receive. What resources and strategies do you use?
Sarah,
When I saw this video today I naturally thought of your blog site. Enjoy!!!!