I’m just beginning to break away from the need to be a professional writer. I feel like I’ve nearly sold my soul a thousand times over in applying to various writing jobs. I want to make money (I will make money) but I’m starting to think it needs to be from using my voice and my thoughts, not from meeting the list of “professional” things you mentioned.

Reading this confirmed what I have felt deep down. I’m far from implementing an email list or anything, but maybe someday. I’m assuming you dumped the professional methods and have made money because of it, so I’ll stick with it.