106: From Depressed Writer to Successful Entrepreneur (Self-Care Tips)

106: From Depressed Writer to Successful Entrepreneur (Self-Care Tips)

Author: Michael Leonard: Copywriter & Freelance Writing Coach July 6, 2020 Duration: 29:32

I'm passionate about this because last year I went through the darkest times of my life.

From January to April I struggled… a lot. I went through so much doubt and fear that it led to a deep dark depression. 

I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy… it was that bad. Looking back, the reason it happened was that I didn't have much self-care.

For most of 2017 and all of 2018 I hustled… non-stop — I prided myself on the hustle. 

Early morning, late nights, and little rest eventually lead to a meltdown.  

By the start of 2019, my mind and body shut down. I overworked myself and found myself in an awful place. 

It wasn't until a coach by the name of Jim Fortin and hypnotherapy did I get out of it.

So why am I telling you this?

First off, I want to be 100% transparent with you. While I'm happy to give out endless freelancing and writing advice, none of it works if YOU aren't okay.

Remember, YOU are a reflection of your business.

So if you're struggling, your business will struggle as well. 

Second, one of the reasons I struggled is because I hid this depression from everyone (including you).

I didn't tell my friends, family or anyone.

I suffered in silence. 

So I want to shine a light on this subject as it affects a lot more people that you probably realize.

Plus, I recorded a new podcast episode and just released it today to shine some light on the subject.

The topic… self-care as an entrepreneur.

In reality, the same tips will apply whether you're a 9-5 employee or an entrepreneur.

But I stress the importance of it as an entrepreneur because being your own boss is stressful. 

It's 100X harder than working in a 9-5 (but it's worth it).

That's why you need to take care of YOU. 

And as I said before, your business is a reflection of YOU.

When you listen to the episode, you will:

  • The #1 strategy I used to beat depression
  • How I used my struggles to become a better writer 
  • 5 self-care tips I recommend to all of my students inside Freelance to 5

Self-Care for Entrepreneurs

Here's a preview of what you'll learn when you tune into episode #106

  • How to journal for clarity 
  • What is hypnotherapy and how it can reprogram your mind
  • Why you need quiet time to be successful
  • 3 self-care rituals
  • Why you need to exercise as an entrepreneur 

Start or Scale Your Freelance Writing Business 

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>>Work with me 1-1 (Extremely Limited)

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We'll work together 1:1 each week to build your writing business with weekly calls, email support, access to my signature writing course Freelance to 5K, and accountability to reach your income goals. 

I'll personally help you overcome any limiting beliefs, attract high-paying clients, build your brand online, review your pitches, and show you how to scale your business. 

Fill out an application today.


Michael Leonard was a professional copywriter earning a solid salary before he walked away from that career in 2017. With no safety net, he built a thriving online writing business from the ground up. In his Inspire Your Success podcast, he gets into the real work behind that transition, moving beyond simple inspiration to offer a practical roadmap. Each conversation is grounded in his experience as a freelance writing coach, focusing on the actionable steps needed to build a sustainable independent career. You’ll hear honest discussions about the mental shifts required to leave a traditional job, the systems that actually generate income, and how to navigate the common pitfalls of entrepreneurship. This isn't about vague motivational talk; it's a detailed look at creating a business that affords more freedom, whether that means paying off debt, traveling, or simply designing a life with more flexibility. Tune in for a blend of strategic business advice and personal development insights, all drawn from Michael’s own journey from a structured 9-5 to successful self-employment. The podcast serves as a direct mentorship for anyone feeling stuck, providing the tangible tools and mindset needed to turn professional aspirations into a working reality.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Inspire Your Success
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