Hello, friend.
While taking a walk the other day, it hit me: “Whoa. I’ve been self-employed for 12 years.”
When I decided to quit my job and go into business for myself, I never imagined where the journey would lead.
At the beginning, my goals were very modest. I was hoping to earn enough money to pay my mortgage, keep gas in the
car, and maybe buy a fancy latte once in a while. Back then, when I hosted a writing workshop, I was ecstatic if two people attended—even if they were primarily interested in the free donuts. Hey, at least somebody showed up! 12 years later, my world looks very different.
My goals have become significantly more
ambitious. Today, I have a team that includes one assistant, three part-time contractors, two full-time employees, a business partner, and invaluable support around the household (laundry, cleaning, errands), because I’ve realized it takes a village to get big things done—and nobody does it alone.
I’ve written
six books and have a seventh on the way. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with incredible clients and top book publishers as an author, editor, and writing coach. I get to do exciting writing projects (write newsletters, articles, keynote speeches, podcast scripts, and more) with fast-growing companies that are changing millions of lives. I’m in a financial position where I can take care of myself and give to the causes I care about. I’m not saying this to be boastful, but rather to
illustrate what is possible. A lot can change in 12 years—or 12 months, for that matter.
I know there is someone out there who needs to hear this, because I certainly needed to hear these words 12 years ago:
Take your goals seriously, give your absolute all, keep marching, and don’t give up too quickly.
Today I am celebrating 12 years of mistakes, lessons, growth, and ambition. I am celebrating the unfinished
journey, and everything that’s still ahead.
What are you celebrating today?
Celebrate the goals you have
achieved. But also, celebrate your effort and tenacity—all those moments when you could have given up but didn’t.
Here are a few more things I am celebrating today…
- I’ve been working with a client, Dr. Sasha Heinz, on several writing projects. She has a new program called Mind Your Mind: the Mental Fitness Club for Women. If you notice frustrating patterns in your life that you want to change—and you’d like
to learn from Dr. Sasha, a top developmental psychologist with multiple Ivy League degrees—go check it out. She’s brilliant.
- I sold my house—and moved into a new place! I’m still living in Hawaii, but now I’m on the other side of the Big Island. My new place is located in a macadamia nut orchard, and it’s so quiet and peaceful. I feel hugely
blessed.
- I rented an office! I’ve always had a home-office, but recently I decided, “I want a workspace that’s not inside my house.” I found a charming space inside a 120-year-old historic building. The best part: my dad is going to rent the office right across the hall, so we can be neighbors! The world headquarters of Franzen &
Franzen. Next time you see me on Zoom, you can catch a glimpse of my new office.
- Last but not least—this one isn’t a celebration but rather, a question. Are you an excellent copywriter? Can you deliver fantastic content on a tight deadline? Do you have 3 years of experience or more? Would you be interested in a full-time position with benefits? If YES, please reply and send (1) One sentence to describe yourself (2) A
link to one piece that represents your strongest writing: webpage, blog post, anything you want to share (3) Your name and (4) Your email address. I have a client who is hiring several new writers ASAP. I will pass your info along to this client. If they'd like to speak with you, they will contact you to share more info about the position and see if it's something that interests you. I can’t promise they will reach out to you, but hey, it never hurts to submit your info and see! Thank you.
Wishing you a beautiful weekend. Take good care of yourself. Do things that make you feel powerful. Most of all: don’t give up.
-Alex
PS. Peaceful music for work-time, writing, walking, stretching, lounging, or staring out the window and contemplating the immensity and mystery of the universe.