making a living, the alternative way

"deep" thoughts

Bloggers are making a living too

It’s only my first day writing Dahlight and The Wall Street Journal prints an article reporting that in the US today, there are nearly as many bloggers making a living online as there are lawyers.  Bartenders rank between the two professions.  While I come from a family of attorneys (my grandfather, father, uncle, and several cousins).  And, a few lawyers have found their place in my small circle of close friends.  And, I was a proud member of University of Arizona’s Phi Alpha Delta (the pre-law fraternity).  The little rebel in me can’t help but rejoice at this news.

I love that people are tapping into their entrepreneurial spirit and designing lives that are free, creative, expressive and fulfilling, by sharing their unique perspectives online.  I love that alternative professions are beginning to gain more respect.    Side Note – as a student I thrived on the feeling I had when declaring that I was going to law school.  It felt so grown up, so smart, so impressive.  Of course, the predictably positive reaction I got from the adult I was professing this to was like a drug.  Totally addictive.

Most of all, I love that the development of technology (and our absolute dependence on it) allows people to consider more independent fringe careers and still make their own mark.  Actually, probably make an even bigger mark.

In reality, bloggers and lawyers have a lot in common.  Both must be able to express themselves clearly and accurately.  They must care about the world around them and wonder what makes it work.  They must be somewhat insightful.  And, they both have to have dedicated personalities.  So, is it any surprise that some of the same students who, a few years ago, might have chosen the law (like I did for a while) are now passionately choosing self-publishing?

After recently reading a document I wrote defending my side of a dispute I had with a garment importer/exporter my father, the attorney, said to me.  “You are such a good writer, you should have gone into law.  Or maybe not.  (audible chuckle)”

At that moment, the young college student in me felt that familiar and addictive high from his implied complement that I have what it takes to be a lawyer.  But, the grown entrepreneur in me felt warm and gooey knowing that he has come to appreciate all it takes to pursue my sometimes strange, and almost always colorful, career choices.  At least for my dad’s sake, I never became a bartender.  At least, not yet.