Take a moment to think about your typical workday.
How much control do you have over what you have to do — and when you get to do it?
And when you think about each day, do you feel energized, excited, happy and anxious to get to it?
Or do you feel drained, stressed, unhappy, worried or depressed?
This assessment is important. Because in working with hundreds of solo creative professionals, I’ve found that two of the biggest sources of happiness are having:
- Control over our schedule .
- Work that’s interesting, challenging and engaging.
It’s Not All About Income
Given the choice, many of us would gladly trade some of our income for the ability to have more control over our schedules and do work we truly enjoy.
Yet when I talk with writers, most of them feel constantly under the gun to meet deadlines and take meetings.
Their weeks are stressful and filled with work they dislike.
In fact, many have less freedom and flexibility than they did when traditionally employed!
They feel like they’ve created a horrible “job” for themselves, and it sits heavy on them.
I know what that’s like. Over the years, I’ve built a business that (in theory) should give me a ton of freedom and flexibility.
But even so, I still have to work hard to create days and weeks that bring joy rather than bondage.
Know What Your Ideal Day Looks Like
One trick that helps me with this problem is to start with the end in mind.
I get crystal clear on what my ideal day looks like by writing out an hour-by-hour description of that day.
I write down what I’ll do first, what I’ll do after that and so on. I include how I’ll feel and what I’ll be thinking at each moment.
I allow myself to dream big and have fun with this exercise. Nothing’s too unrealistic.
I imagine and create what I want to be real. And I get emotionally involved in the process.
In fact, I create three different versions of this “perfect day.” I write one for a typical “production” day… then one for a typical “buffer” day… and one for a typical “free” day.
I also review and update these descriptions at least once a quarter.
This practice has worked remarkably well for me. It helps me make sure that each day brings joy and freedom instead of drudgery.
So here’s my challenge for you: Set a timer for 10 minutes and write up a description of your ideal production day.
Allow your imagination to run free. Have fun with it!
And see what your ideal day actually looks like.
By the way… whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you grow your freelance business:
1. Grab a copy of my book for ESTABLISHED writers.
You’ll discover a different way to think about your challenges during this crisis. Plus you’ll get clear recommendations to get you through the storm safely … and to come out the other side stronger than ever. — Click Here
2. Download a free copy of my book for writers who are NEW TO FREELANCING.
I’ll show you the 3 things you need to do to get your business off the ground safely and land your first paying client faster. — Click Here
3. Join my implementation program and be a case study.
I’m putting together a new implementation group this month. If you’d like to work with me to grow your income quickly with better clients (and become one of my new success stories) … just hit reply and put “Case Study” in the subject line.
4. Work with me privately.
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 hit reply, put “Breakthrough” in the subject line, and I’ll back to you with more details.
