The Pyjama Myth: The Freelance Writer's Survival Guide

by Sian Meades-Williams

Self-employment has never been a more popular career path, and for thousands of writers, freelancing is becoming an appealing – and sometimes necessary – option. But alongside the benefits of a freelance career come very real obstacles that are daunting for anyone going it alone. We all need some guidance. Sian Meades-Williams – freelance writer, editor and founder of the Freelance Writing Jobs newsletter – knows all too well that while freelancing doesn’t come with hard and fast rules, sometimes there is a wrong way to go about things. Drawing on her extensive experience and dozens of industry interviews, she pulls back the curtain with tips on how to get out of your pyjamas and: Inspiring, optimistic and – above all – real, The Pyjama Myth is an essential, practical survival guide for anyone embarking on their career, established freelance writers and everyone in between.

Genres: Nonfiction

246 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2022

Reviews

[Jake Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish this book existed when I was 21! It's motivational without being trite, and it's packed full of bitesize tips that I'll definitely come back to, especially when it comes to pitching and diversifying income. I devoured this in three days, which is great because i've had a bit of a mental slump lately. This has dragged me out of that, and made me think more analytically about what I want for my career in both the near and distant future.

My only tiny wish is that it had a bit more practical information on how to get into B2B and copywriting, but on the whole I loved this book - chatty, conversational and really accessible. Would definitely recommend to new freelancers in particular!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fellow freelance writer, I thoroughly enjoyed The Pyjama Myth. This book reads like an all-in-one handbook for freelance writers at any stage of their career – I’ve gone it alone for six years this year and I still found it eminently useful. From pitching to invoicing, self-confidence to motivation, Sian tackles every topic and offers brilliant advice. There’s areas that feel a little tacked-on or shorter than anticipated, but mostly this is a great guide for anyone wishing to successfully freelance and write.

[Clarissa Brincat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A treasure trove of good advice

Sian doesn't speak from a pedestal - she's really humble and shares all the mistakes she made so others can learn from them. I think this is what makes this book so fantastic. It's like having a long heart-to-heart with an experienced friend.

The part on setting up good systems was especially helpful to me - I won't give anything away here though.

I started reading this book months ago and picked it up in moments when I felt a bit lost. I've highlighted loads of helpful parts, which I'm sure I'll return to whenever I need guidance.

Once again, thank you Sian!

[Ruth Clemence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful and motivational read on all things freelance writing! I will be returning to it over the weeks/months/years ahead as there is so much valuable insight here from one who openly shares her mistakes, triumphs, and the ongoing realities of the freelance life.

The practical exercises peppered throughout will definitely be useful for those wanting to apply the information to their own work. Highly recommend.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent guide for anyone wanting to make the move into freelance writing. And as someone who works as a freelance writer already, I still found it had plenty of helpful tips and tricks, as well as encouragement on how to make a success of this career choice. Will definitely be recommending it to those looking to get started as journalists.

[Emma Marns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely one of the best freelance books out there! So helpful without being condescending, funny and well thought out, this book is an absolute bible to consult BEFORE going freelance. The advice is excellent and the section about tax is easily the best and most informative/ straightforward I’ve ever come across.
Thank you Sian!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely devoured this. Freelancers, get yourself a copy if you haven't already! It's a warm hug, confidence booster and kick up the arse all at the same time. Now I'm off to work on that pitch that I'm super excited about...

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new BIBLE! Finally a freelance guide from a writer with experience in the U.K. publishing industry!

[Katey Lovell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring, informative... changed my life!

[Lauren Hurrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book’s been my bible since going freelance, has everything there is to know about solo writing with useful tips on pay rates and motivation.