When I was just starting out, I had no idea how to become a successful freelance writer. I knew that I loved to write, wanted to make some money from home, and just jumped in with both feet. I found Elance, bid on my first project, won, and just kept at it. That was nearly nine years ago.

Although I haven't yet reached the six-figure mark, I am determined to do so in the next two years. My plan? To combine my freelance writing and internet marketing skills.

That said, I think that becoming a successful freelance writer isn't difficult at all.

As long as you have writing talent and a desire to succeed and are willing to "roll with the punches," you can and will succeed in this business.

Here are some additional tips for those of you just starting out.

1. Associate with other successful freelance writers. There are many successful freelance writers all over the 'net. Take Elance, for instance. There are literally hundreds of writers there making thousands of dollars a month for their writing talents. Make as many contacts as you can. Visit online forums. Visit freelance writing support groups. Do what it takes to make contacts.

2. Perfect your writing skills. Improve your writing skills by reading and applying your knowledge. Ask others to critique your work and continue to make improvements.

3. Don't give in to fear. It can be scary starting a freelance writing career. The income might not be steady and you may be scared to try something new. However, don't give in to fear. You may have some good times and some bad times but as long as you keep at it, you will succeed.

4. Write every single day. Make it a priority to perfect your writing skills by writing email messages, stories, articles, whatever. Just keep writing until your hands fall off. By writing you will improve your skills.

5. Seek a successful mentor. Pair up with a senior writer to teach you the ropes. You can pay them for their time or offer them your services in exchange for some help. This will help you get on the "fast track" to freelance success. They'll give you some valuable feedback, possibly some work, and great constructive criticism.

6. Work diligently to please your clients - every single time. There are a lot of b.s. writers out there. Those that promise the world and deliver nothing but crap. Remember the cream rises to the top. Be the cream that rises and you'll never have to worry about projects because clients will continuously seek you out.

7. Set realistic financial goals. For instance, if you know that you need $1,000 a month, figure out a specific plan on how you will make that happen. For instance, will you write two ebooks, five short reports, or 50 articles?

8. Don't sacrifice your talents for low pay. Freelance writing can be cutthroat. There are some writers willing to work for pennies. Don't be like that. Although you should charge less when you're just starting off, as you haven't yet built a name for yourself, know your value and raise your prices as soon as you can.

9. Combine freelance writing with internet marketing. I am a firm believer that all writers should learn how to market their writing skills. So take the time to learn internet marketing.

10. Enjoy yourself. Take time out to enjoy yourself. Don't get so caught up working to become a successful freelance writer that you don't take time for the smaller things in life. Small pleasures like a walk on the beach, enjoying a cup of ice cream with your kids, or even soaking your feet in a tub, should be done frequently. This will keep your creative mind flowing and your spirit replenished.