Commissions thinning; advertising nose-diving; publications reinventing themselves for a diminishing audience frequently less keen on paying.

It’s easy to feel disheartened, especially when lurking in a bubble with peers equally concerned about the industry’s future. But going ‘outside’ feeds new energy.

Recently, I was asked what I did for a living. I almost dismissed my work: “I write stuff.” “For what?” “Mostly magazines and the odd newspaper thing, such as…” Eyes lit up. Genuine excitement and interest.

A moment of feeling foolish before remembering the passion, the thrill of the chase, and remembering why I do what I do.

Craig Grannell | Freelancer writer (tech, games, design)