Hey [first name],

After years of being a freelance writer, I would say that I've learned many content strategy lessons the hard and painful way. It was tough when they happened but I am grateful for these lessons now, as they have made me so much stronger!

If you want to build a sustainable freelance writing career, you will need to learn these lessons at some point in your journey, so let me save you some time, heartache, and money!

After all, I want my hindsight to be your path forward.

Here are some of the hardest lessons I had to learn:

Diversifying Your Client Base is Crucial

I realized that putting all my eggs in one basket was a huge mistake. When my main client could no longer pay me the agreed amount, I was left scrambling for income.

The truth was that diversifying my client base is crucial for financial stability in freelancing. Now, I typically work with 4-5 clients a month, all on project-based assignments. They don't care if I work the whole day on their tasks, but what matters is that I complete the work before the deadline.

Is it hard? Absolutely. But this approach allows me to diversify my income sources and remain independent from a single client. It's challenging, but it provides much-needed stability and flexibility in my career.

Starting Small Can Build Strong Foundations

I realized that sometimes you need to take a step back to move forward. After losing my main client, I had to start with $5 writing gigs on platforms like oDesk and Fiverr.

While it's possible to leapfrog this step and jumpstart your career with all guns blazing, there's nothing wrong if you're more comfortable starting by building your career's foundations.

This is a place to start, and it can teach you valuable lessons about client management, time management, and the importance of delivering quality work, regardless of the pay.

Networking is Essential, Even for Introverts

I realized that as a writer, it's easy to become isolated, but networking is crucial for career growth.

As someone who identifies as reserved and prefers being alone, I've learned that networking doesn't mean changing who you are. Instead, it's about strategically putting yourself out there.

I make it a point to attend at least one networking event or conference every year. This allows me to not only connect with like-minded people but also get referrals from them or even have them hire me as part of their business!

It's about quality connections, not quantity. These events have led to some of my most valuable professional relationships and opportunities.

Can you relate to any of the above lessons?

I don't want you to waste too much time trying to establish yourself as a freelance writer, so I really do hope that this email has helped you to understand the crazy journey it takes to build a successful freelance writing career.

What are some 3 hard lessons that you have learned in your writing career?

Hit reply and let me know!

Have a great week ahead. Stay amazing, friend.

Keep writing,
Chris