Running your own copywriting business or working as a freelance writer can be hard work. Unlike being employed by a company, a copywriting entrepreneur has to take care of all the different business tasks yourself. That includes everything from finding work in the first place to doing your taxes correctly after you’ve been paid. In addition to the fact that entrepreneurs tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves to be as productive as possible all the time, freelance work isn’t always easy. Although this can help you to achieve your goals, in the long run, it raises the risk of issues such as anxiety, depression, and burnout. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to make the most of your time and energy rather than simply work longer hours. Here are some top tips to help you boost your productivity so that you can do exactly that.
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Know yourself as a copywriting entrepreneur
Your first step as a copywriting entrepreneur should be to gain a better understanding of how you work best. That way, when you sit down to write, you can produce the maximum quality results. For example, do you write best with silence or background music? What kind of music? Consider some other factors such as what time of day you are at your most productive and whether you write best on your own or with the hustle and bustle of other people around you in a coffee shop or similar location. Try experimenting with a few different options and see what works best for you. Once you know what your ideal work environment is, try to recreate it every day and watch the words flow!
Take advantage of technology
Technology is often criticized as a distraction; however, in the right circumstances, it can actually be a huge boost to our productivity. Firstly there’s software specific to writing which can improve the quality of your work. For example, by looking for repetition in the words you use or checking your grammar, you can keep improving your work. Then there are apps that help to make you more productive in general. These include those that block you from accessing certain websites (or the entire internet) for a specific period so that you can focus on deep work. You can also utilize digital organization tools to ensure that you always stay on top of your deadlines and know exactly what you need to work on each day.
Outsource where appropriate
For those who run a copywriting company rather than working solo, outsourcing can be an effective option. Whether it’s partnering with a recruitment agency that uses ATS Software when hiring new writers or bringing in an IT company to handle your computing needs, outsourcing can free up your schedule to work on pitching and writing. Even as an individual freelancer, hiring an accountant to deal with your finances can take a weight off your shoulders. Not to mention, it can help you to avoid making costly errors.
Embrace lifelong learning
Continuous learning is crucial for everyone these days and a copywriting entrepreneur is no different. Your skills need to be sharp and knowledge up-to-date in order to keep successfully getting work. Luckily, there are lots of ways you can do this. You can join a writers group, read books on relevant topics, take online or in-person courses, and attend conferences. Many of these techniques can also be a great chance for you to network, so be sure to make the most of every single opportunity. It’s also important to learn from your past mistakes, however small they are, and avoid any repeats.
Be more mindful
It might sound counterintuitive, but slowing down can actually assist you in being more productive. Download a meditation app or practice breathing exercises when you’re feeling overwhelmed, and ensure you take regular breaks. Simple actions such as enjoying a hot bath, a walk in the countryside, or reading a good book can clear your mind and improve your concentration. It’s also fantastic for your overall mental health and well-being. Not only is this important in itself, but it is also necessary for creativity – which is essential for a writer. Other tactics include; coloring books, jigsaw puzzles, or taking up a new hobby.
Attend a writing retreat
For those times when you truly need to knuckle down and concentrate, a writing retreat could be ideal. You can join an official one near to where you live or in a peaceful location that you can easily reach, and see how much more quickly the words come to you without all those everyday distractions around! Retreats can also be a good opportunity to meet fellow writers, enabling you to make friends and exchange tips. Alternatively, you could set up your own writing retreat by booking a hotel room for a few days and getting out of town. You will be amazed at how much difference a change of environment can make to your productivity, and, very often, that change persists long after you return home.
Work with a business coach
If you’re hoping to get some personalized assistance growing your copywriting business – even as a solo freelancer, then hiring a business coach might be worth considering. This allows you to benefit from one-to-one guidance from an expert, working on the precise issues that you are struggling with. It could be anything from how to kickstart your business, how to expand it, or how to be more productive with your writing. This can be an absolutely fantastic way to get some clarity on your goals and future plans. Not to mention, it gives your confidence a boost. It’s also a chance to learn how to be more effective at achieving your personal dreams. Take some time to find a coach whose personality suits yours and whose values align with your own in order to ensure a successful working relationship.
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