I am my own worst critic - which can have it’s advantages. I’ll double check my work like a manic, re-write near perfect sentences, etc. I think this behavior has served me well. But at the same time, I can go overboard. There’s always this little voice in my head saying, “this can be better,” or “the original statement was more powerful.” And as a result, I’ll take more time than necessary to complete a project.

Telling that voice in my head to “shut up” can definitely shave time off my work day. But nowadays, it seems like everyone wants to try their hand at freelance writing. And once people discovered that they could make extra money writing web copy from home, the competition when through the roof. Which is okay. However, I’m no longer competing with full-time writers for positions.

Added to the pool is any and everyone who wants to stay home with their kids and those who need to supplement their income. Web copy isn’t rocket science. If you can write a coherent sentence, you can get a job. To standout, I have to make sure my stuff is together. If a client doesn’t like (or want) what I bring to the table, they can easily find another hopeful to take my place.

Knowing this, my inner critic has been in overdrive. But I think it’s time to silence this voice - or at least lower the volume. No matter what we do, there’s always going to be someone who can do it better. I believe in hard work and turning in your best - but not if it means driving yourself crazy.