Three months ago, I embarked on a journey that has been nothing short of transformativeโlaunching Literary Inspired. Today, I’m thrilled to share that I have 10 full-time authors as monthly clients, each with their unique genres ranging from romance and sci-fi to childrenโs books and dystopian horror. My role varies with each author. For some, I’m the digital strategist who helps them establish an online presence, while for others, I’m the part-time PA managing day-to-day admin tasks. My background in digital strategy, web design, SEO, and social media marketing has not only helped my clients but has also propelled my business growth faster than I anticipated. Here are some key lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Don’t Be Scared to Invest in Yourself
Investing in yourself is crucial, whether it’s upskilling through courses or investing in tools that streamline your business. After a recent house fire, I had to make a choice: wait for a new charger for my work laptop or invest in a dedicated laptop for Literary Inspired. I chose the latter, and it has been a game-changer. It’s given me the security and efficiency to take on more clients and grow my business. But remember, be smart about your investments. Keep track of all expenses, no matter how small, and take advantage of free courses offered by platforms like Facebook, Mailerlite, Google, and Moz.
Treat Yourself as Your Most Important Customer
My current employer often says, “Treat yourself as your most important customer,” and it couldn’t be more accurate. If you don’t invest time in your own business, who will? For me, this means daily networking, content creation, blog writing, and outreach. It’s not just about maintaining the business I have now; it’s about growing it. Your next big break could be just a tweet or a blog post away.
Take Time to Relax
While I’m a self-confessed workaholic, I also understand the importance of avoiding burnout. Taking short breaks, whether it’s an early night or a Saturday morning with the family, helps me recharge. These moments away from the screen allow me to breathe, be creative, and remind myself why I started this journey in the first place.
At the core of Literary Inspired is a desire to be creative and to give back to a community that has given me so much. It’s not just about financial stability; it’s about giving voices to authors and bringing order to the chaotic world of book promotion. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me and excited for the milestones and lessons that lie ahead.