When to take a risk in your writing career

Taking a risk can pay off handsomely, but how do you know when it's the right time?

Writer's Digest talked to several writers who had made big changes — and reaped the rewards — and shared their insights on the following questions:

• How did you know that it was time to pursue freelance full time?

• What was the first step you took in preparing to support yourself?

• What gave you the courage to make the leap?

• What aspects of being a full-time writer surprised you the most?

• What advice would you offer writers considering a fresh start?

Head to Writer's Digest to see their answers. (You can also see what C.J. Lyons, a doctor-turned-author, told us a few years ago about her own huge leap here.)