A big break?
A small miracle?
Are you waiting for that one person to tell you you’re the best, and you should really do this?
It’s the daily drama of the wannabe freelancer. Lots of good intentions. Hopes and dreams galore. Always looking for the key that magically opens all doors.
And when those doors remain closed, be ready for the surprise, the indignation, and the excuses:
“They told me I had talent!”
“They said there would be lots of opportunities.”
“I’m just a beginner. You can’t expect me to know all these things.”
Every new job has a learning curve. That’s a given. But advertising yourself as a pro elicits expectations. Clients expect you to have professional equipment. Clients trust that you have the basic skills to do the job you just bid on. Is that too much to ask?
Yes, there are lots of opportunities, and lots of people are going after those opportunities. People with more experience, better gear, and a better understanding of how things work in this business. They are your competition. Can you compete on more than price?
I have no doubt that you are talented. But talent is nothing but potential. A diamond in the rough looks quite ugly, and needs serious cutting and polishing before it can be sold. Do you have the time, the means, and the patience to listen, learn, and improve?
Do you have enough drive, or do you like to be driven?
You see, this is not a superficial thing. To get to most diamonds, you need to dig deep. Diamonds don’t polish themselves, and doors don’t magically open. Only saints can claim small miracles, and that big break is highly overrated. Some wannabe’s go broke, waiting for that break.
Intentions, hopes, and dreams are figments of the imagination. Clearly defined goals, a solid education, and a willingness to work harder than anyone else, are not.
Here’s the real rub.
If you are waiting for someone or something, you’re doing it wrong.
The key to being successfully self-employed lies in taking massive, positive action. Not because someone told you to. Not because you felt forced.
You get out of bed because you have this burning desire to accomplish something meaningful, whatever it may be.
Step by step.
Day by day.
So, stop whining.
Stop waiting.
Start creating.
Your life.
Now.
Paul Strikwerda ©nethervoice
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