The Family Factor – Explained

A few years ago, while visiting with George Webb (GW) and John O’Loughlin on Mystery Island, GW explained the Citizen Journalist funding conundrum perfectly.

In short, when a Citizen Journalist spends a lot of time researching and writing, the wife starts to wonder what you are doing all the time in the basement office, or other quiet space away from people. GW called it the “Wife Factor.”

I have expanded “Wife Factor” to include the kids, and use the more inclusive “Family Factor.”

The “Family Factor” means that if I can show the wife and kids that I am not just goofing off on the computer but actually earning a few bucks, than I do not have to justify my time spent researching and writing.

Example: When readers do not donate.

Family – “We will be in the car waiting for you to drive us to your niece’s four hour dance recital two hours away. Here is a box of raisins because we won’t have time to eat for another seven hours.”

Me (out-loud) – “I can’t wait.”

Me (quietly) – “Shoot me.”

Example: When readers donate.

Family – “We are going to your niece’s four hour dance recital two hours away, do you want us to pick up dinner on the way back since you are busy?”

Me (out-loud) – “That would be great, have fun.”