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The Motivating Power of Five Simple Words
by Steve Slaunwhite
In 1992 a 30-year old salesman needed a change. He wanted to do something else with his life. And thought copywriting might just be his ticket.
Like many aspiring freelance writers in those days, he had read Secrets Of A Freelance Writer (the first edition) by Bob Bly and felt inspired. "Can I really make a go of this?" He thought.
The odds were against him.
After all, he had no previous experience as a copywriter. No formal training. No mentor to guide him. No prospective clients. And an amateurish portfolio with just a few spec samples in it.
The sum of his credentials? Pretty close to zero.
No wonder he had so many doubts and fears!
Now, if this guy had called me for advice all those years ago, I might have cautioned him. "You need to think about this carefully," I might have warned. "Perhaps you better take some time to gain more experience, writing samples, and credentials before you pin all your hopes on a freelance copywriting career."
But, thank goodness, he didn't call me for advice. He called someone else. And that someone said five simple words that would change that person's outlook forever: "There is nothing stopping you."
Of course, he would have to work hard, make some smart decisions, get help when needed, learn the craft, learn the business, and so forth. It wasn't going to be easy. In fact, it was going to be damn hard at times.
The point is, there was nothing really stopping him. Just obstacles to overcome.
"There is nothing stopping you."
So what's the lesson here?
Whether you're an aspiring copywriter just starting out, or an established pro struggling to take your business to the next level, you're going to have doubts and fears. It comes with the territory. But whatever roadblock you imagine is in your way, ask yourself: Is it really stopping you? Or is it just an obstacle that can eventually be overcome?
Chances are, it's the latter.
So here's what I want you to do. (This is going to sound corny, but stay with me.) Get on your word processor, or get out a notepad, and write: "There is nothing stopping you". Then pin that piece of paper to the wall in front of your desk. That will help to remind you that an obstacle, no matter how daunting, is just that: an obstacle. If you don't let it discourage you, you will find a way over it, under it, around it, or through it.
"There is nothing stopping you." Yes, I know it sounds like motivational trite. But, in most cases, it's true.
Wondering what ever happened to that former salesman? I'm happy to report that, today, he is a successful copywriter. And very thankful of that "someone" who gave him those five encouraging words all those years ago.
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