Free Business Cards by Vistaprint
I’m determined to dream big this year. Most people won’t notice a change in my left side bar, but I removed my Scentsy button today. While selling Scentsy brought some extra income to my family for a time and gave me some small business experience, I’m not passionate enough about it. So, I decided to close my Scentsy business to dedicate more time in 2012 to two things I am passionate about: My family and writing. I’m also learning more about fair trade, a new interest I discovered in 2011.
While doing my taxes, I realized that the amount of time and energy I put into my business didn’t justify the small amount I earned. If I wanted to be truly successful, I needed to invest myself more fully. I recognized that I preferred writing stories about fundraisers or prize winning pigs to ordering product or making cold calls. Every job has less glamorous aspects. The trick is finding one where the things you love make the dull parts worth it. For me, this is the case with writing. Every story can’t be big or exciting, but the challenge and reward of bringing a topic alive is always there.
I had the opportunity to help some emerging entrepreneurs build website content recently. They invited me to help tell their story and write a product description. The project included all of the elements I love about writing; The opportunity to engage with people, learn about new and interesting things, brainstorm ideas, and play with words to convey a message that engages readers. This small project at Puro Spring Water inspired me to push beyond my complacency and ask myself some important questions about my career goals.
Inspired, I updated my resume, uploaded it to LinkedIn, and changed the footer on my emails.Then I ordered business cards with the title “Freelance Writer” and I a small thrill went through me when they arrived. This year, I will continue writing here on my blog and for the local newspaper, but I’m seeking new opportunities as well. The challenges of writing for a variety of forums interests me – from web content, to social media management, to guest articles, to newspaper writing, and even advertising. The trick will be pursuing my goals with confidence, finding balance, and pushing myself to be proactive.
What are your dreams for 2012? Are you thinking big? Share it here and let’s check in with each other and provide support and encouragement for the year to come!
Good for you, for deciding on what you want and going after it, and not wasting your time doing something you dislike.
From the beginning I have only written what has interested me for my blog and will only do so in the future, money or no money. My hopes for 2012 is that my blog grows.
I’m proud of you!! I made one of my goals to get some kind of writing job but I think what holds me back is doubt in myself. I need to get over that! Maybe you will help inspire me to do so!
I am so happy for you! I think it’s awesome that you have kept up your dream. I am also pursuing more writing this year though a different kind. I’m working on my book(s) and loving it! My goal is to have a good outline finished in the next couple months. Then I will be able to start writing. 🙂 Good luck with all your pursuits! You can do it!
Good for you! Very cool, Mindy. I predict lots of success for you!