Transforming Office Hours into a $1500 Freelance Opportunity
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Chapter 1: The Turning Point
This is the story of how I secured my very first freelance client, which ultimately inspired me to leave my job and embrace a full-time writing career.
In December 2020, I signed a year-long contract worth $1500, requiring me to dedicate 20 hours each week. The articles I was tasked with writing were not only enjoyable, but they also posed a stimulating challenge. Watching my work gain traction on Google was incredibly rewarding, motivating me to further enhance my skills and put in more effort.
However, the focus of this article is not just that contract; it revolves around how I managed to turn a routine office hours call into a pivotal job interview.
Section 1.1: The Background Work
In October 2020, I enrolled in weekly office hours with a coach I greatly respected. For just $5 a month, I had the opportunity to participate in calls with my coach and a diverse group of individuals from around the globe. Each session lasted approximately 30 minutes, during which we addressed one question from every participant, collaboratively brainstorming solutions.
During one of these calls, I expressed my desire to leave my job but struggled to establish a consistent income. My coach, who became a mentor, inquired about the amount I needed to comfortably quit my job. When I revealed that I required $1500, I was astounded to have a contract for that very amount in my hands the following week!
Subsection 1.1.1: Building the Foundation
So, was this transformation just a stroke of luck? Not at all. Here are some crucial elements that contributed to this outcome:
- Prior to that life-altering call, I had published 10 articles in my coach's publication, each earning me $500. This demonstrated my potential and the quality of my work.
- I consistently showed up to every call prepared with notes and insights, adding value to our discussions.
- I actively participated in office hours, making it a priority to connect with new people each week, showcasing my commitment to learning and networking.
- I cultivated an audience of around 5,000 readers on Medium, indicating that my writing resonated with a significant English-speaking demographic.
It’s clear that there’s no such thing as mere "luck." Success is built on hard work, strategic planning, and unwavering consistency.
Section 1.2: The Road Ahead
As we wrap up, do you want to learn how to develop these habits and invite the magic of "happy consequences" into your freelance writing journey?
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Feel free to share this story with fellow writers aspiring to earn a full-time income doing what they love.