Brand strategist and blogger extraordinaire Valeria Maltoni writes in this blog post:
Usually people ask me: what is the next Facebook? That’s entirely the wrong question. Moving forward is the best way to look forward.
Great advice for freelance writers, I think.
So many of us are lamenting the demise of what were once deemed the choicest writing gigs: bylines in national magazines, big-name clients, retainer fees and hard-copy book sales.
While I’m a huge proponent of planning, often we writers don’t make enough (or any) allowances for being nimble. What Valeria says means this to me: To take your freelance business in the direction you want it to go, get moving.
When I started diversified freelancing five years ago, my intent was to write part-time for a few former employers, exercise everyday and tend the home fires in ways that were personal and meaningful for hubby and me.
What I got was something altogether different.
Better, in fact.
But had I not moved forward (yes, in blissful ignorance) in my freelance career, I would never be where I am now (a good place).
Moving forward without knowing is not always a bad thing. Author Ray Bradbury says, “Sometimes you just have to jump off the cliff and build your wings on the way down.”
Five years ago, I jumped. Without a client list. Without a gig. Without a clue.
Along the way I learned some things about the craft, the profession, other writers, life and, certainly, myself.
Of course, you don’t know what you don’t know. But, trust me, you’ll learn as you go. And if you’re fortunate, you’ll encounter some friendly, giving bloggers, colleagues and mere strangers who will help along the way.
Ready? Jump!
2 CommentsFollow responses via the comment RSS feed. Trackbacks are not allowed.
I have to agree with you – on so many levels! Our experience is similar, in that 8 years ago, when I left my failing marriage to become a professional freelance writer and startlingly independent woman, I had no idea how it was going to happen. Indeed, I was really scared – after all, I was “towing” two teenagers behind me (three cats and a dog, too).
But, here I sit all those years later, and consider my life to be 95% “perfect.” Granted, I’ve got some clients I’d like to strangle the life out of (a momentary desire), but most of them are wonderfully supportive, and pay their tabs on time. Some even give me more than I’ve asked for, as a way of expressing appreciation.
Then, there’s moving forward on client projects when you have no idea the direction they will lead you – the words become the driving force, and the writer (me) is swept away – when I’m able to let go, and know “all will be well.”
So, yes, I agree with your comment: “Moving forward without knowing is not always a bad thing.” In fact, I advise doing so – where else is the adventure in living?
In the predictable? I don’t think so!
Thanks for your comment. I suspect many friends and colleagues thought you were crazy to take such a leap during a crisis moment. :) But, as you’ve seen, it seems to have been the best decision for you. Sometimes we need to go with our “gut” and do what seems illogical. Again, I’m all for planning and having an idea of where to go but being open to the adventure, to take a leap of faith and to move forward without knowing often nets us results we could not have dreamed of. Plan, certainly. Move, definitely.