Are You Writing For Your Business or Trapped Writing In It?

I had a fascinating coaching call this week with a talented writer who was wrestling with something I see often—getting trapped writing IN your business instead of FOR it. The conversation really highlighted a pattern I've noticed among writers trying to build sustainable businesses.

"I keep taking these lower-paying projects," she told me, "because they're there and I know I can do them quickly." Sound familiar? When I asked about her ideal projects and clients, she lit up describing work that was completely different from what was filling her calendar.

Here's what I told her: When you're writing IN your business, you're heads-down in client work, churning out content, and maybe feeling a bit like a content-producing machine. But writing FOR your business? That's when you step back and think strategically about your services, rates, and ideal clients.

What really shifted things was when we looked at her client list. Her highest-paying clients were also the ones who trusted her expertise most and required fewer revisions. Yet she was spending most of her energy on lower-paying clients who demanded more attention and often questioned her work.

Here's a quick reality check I shared with her (and now you):

• Are you regularly accepting rates below what your best clients pay?
• Do you find yourself apologizing or softening your pricing discussions?
• Have you clearly defined what types of work you actually enjoy doing?

If you answered yes to any of these, you might be too caught up writing IN your business rather than FOR it.

The solution isn't just raising your rates (though that's part of it). It's about getting clear on your ideal clients, packaging your services thoughtfully, and being confident in your business policies. As I reminded my client, "Niching down doesn't mean you can't do other things. It means you're marketing for one thing specifically." That's writing FOR your business. Being strategic about how you present yourself and what you offer, even if you occasionally take on different types of work.

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The Big Leap

Ever feel like you’re this close to leveling up your freelance business—but something keeps getting in the way? The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks (affiliate link) focuses on the hidden barriers that stop us from reaching our full potential (hello, imposter syndrome and self-sabotage). That’s why we’re reading it this month in the Boss Responses Book Club—because mastering your mindset is just as important as mastering your craft. If you’re ready to break through your limits and step into your zone of genius, this book is a must-read.

A Good Cup of Tea

One of my coaching clients introduced me to Smith Teamaker and I'm in love. I've been drinking their Black Lavender tea for the last couple of weeks, and it just makes my day better. My go-to everyday tea is Twinings Decaf English Breakfast (affiliate link), but I'm enjoying the change.

Wrap Up

The shift from writing in your business to writing for it doesn't happen overnight. It starts with small, intentional steps. Maybe that's reviewing your client list and identifying your true five-star clients, or drafting new service packages that align with work you genuinely enjoy. Perhaps it's finally raising your rates with that one client who's been getting a "legacy" discount, or spending an hour this week engaging with your ideal clients on LinkedIn.

Whatever step you choose to take, remember that building a sustainable writing business means being strategic about your time and energy. Your expertise is valuable, and it's worth positioning yourself to attract clients who recognize that value. Start with one small change this week, and watch how it shifts your perspective from service provider to business owner.

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