Most copywriters and content marketers—even well-established ones—err on the side of over-preparation.
We tend to be overly cautious. And we won’t go after something big unless we feel completely prepared or fully qualified to do so. Our level of confidence is disproportionately low when compared with our level of competence.
So, what can we do to grow our confidence to better align these two? Here’s a two-part thought exercise you can try:
Part 1: Think of a point in your life where you held back on taking action because you were afraid
Maybe you didn’t ask that special someone out on a date, go after that advanced degree, or apply for that job. Maybe you decided not to go after a certain client, or took on a new project without asking for more money.
You held back in all these situations because you were afraid.
Now, ask yourself: “If I knew then what I know now, would I have gone for it?” Sit on that for a bit. Maybe even journal on it. It’s powerful stuff.
Now, here’s the second part of the exercise . . .
Part 2: Think of a situation where you were bold and took a big risk. You stepped outside your comfort zone and went for it—with positive results.
When you think of that situation now, do you regret taking that bold action? Or are you glad you went for it?
In part one of this exercise, you probably felt regret about not going for it. In part two, you probably felt glad that you took a chance.
Interesting, isn’t it? Knowing what you now know, you’re glad you took the chances you did. You also wish you’d taken more chances on important things.
Here’s the lesson: ten years from today, you’re going to look back and wonder why you didn’t take more chances. You’ll be sorry you didn’t go for it, even if you didn’t feel 100% ready at the time.
If you know you’re going to feel that way in 10 years . . . why not change it now? Why not act more boldly today, even when you’re scared? You’ll never be fully ready for everything in this business. And if you wait until you feel 100% ready, you’ll flounder.
Of course, you don’t need to take bold action every single time. But try leaning into your fear occasionally. Take baby steps in that direction.
Your confidence will grow little by little. You’ll get better results. And you’ll have fewer regrets—now, and ten years from now.
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If you’re a 6-figure writer who’s trying to earn more in less time, with less stress, I might be able to help you get there faster than you think. Just email me at [email protected] and put “Breakthrough” in the subject line, and I’ll get back to you with more details.
