43: Why I Quit My $120,000 Job to Blog

43: Why I Quit My $120,000 Job to Blog

Author: Michael Leonard: Copywriter & Freelance Writing Coach January 6, 2020 Duration: 18:29

In this episode, I take listeners back to the beginning and share my journey from being an unhappy 9-5 employee to becoming a part-time blogger and then finally now a full-time freelance writer. 

I felt like it was important to share this journey as often when you see people online making money, it appears easy and that success happens overnight. Most people, though, don't make money right out of the gate! For me, it was discovering first that I wanted to help people learn about finances. That developed into writing a blog part-time, but that came with its own set of challenges due to lack of commitment and time. I discovered though that where there is a will there is a way.

After I left my 9 to 5 job to pursue what I thought would be blogging full time, I discovered that actually freelance writing about topics I was interested in and then getting paid for them was actually more of my niche. I have learned so many lessons since then about writing, about growing a business and becoming an entrepreneur. 

All along the way though, I have never lost my firstmost desire to help others learn, apply and then experience success in life. I truly believe everyone has something unique to offer, and if you are stuck in a 9 to 5 job that despite the great pay or benefits, leaves you unfulfilled, then it might be time to explore a new career path in freelance writing. 

I am really excited to share more of my journey with listeners during Monday's with Michael and then dive even more into the details of freelancing on Writing Wednesdays.


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
Podcast Episodes
118: 5 Ways to Land Writing Clients in 2022 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:29
​All you need is one person to say yes and give you a chance as a freelance writer. Today, I want to share you with the five most common ways to land your first freelance writing client so that you can find success as we…
117: The #1 Tip to Start Writing in 2022 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:06
Quit dabbling and start taking action. This is your time to start landing clients and making money as a freelance writer. To learn more about working with Michael, check out: inspireyoursuccess.com/coaching
115: How I Got My First Freelance Writing Client [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:53
On this Writer's Wednesday podcast, I take a trip down memory lane to tell you how I landed my first freelance writing client. Landing that client was a game-changer as it gave me the confidence to go pitch more clients…
114: 9 Lessons from Leaving My $100K 9-5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:47
Do you want to quit your job and learn how to make money online? Before you give your notice at work, make sure you listen to this episode a few times. Because in 2017, I did just that. I left my corporate job and 6-figu…
113: How Kathrine Became a Top Writer & Quit Her 9-5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:44
Learn how one of my Freelance to 5K students became a top writer on Medium.com and quit her 9-5 (in only 5 months)! Kathrine is a writer and mindset coach. She helps people with insecure attachment, in life and relations…
112: 7 Lessons From My Failed Blog [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:46
I quit my $120,000 career after making $200 in affiliate sales from my blog. Most people thought I was crazy. But I was determined to prove everyone wrong and show that you could make money blogging. After reading endles…
111: How to Beat Overwhelm As a Freelancer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:33
In this Monday with Michael episode, we talk about overwhelm versus busyness and go over five tangible action steps to keep your freelance business moving forward. The Difference Between Being Overwhelmed and Being Busy…
109: 5 Ways to Upgrade Your Life During This Pandemic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:33
When the world nearly ended 12 years ago, I was an immature 20-year old drifting through life. As I had nothing invested (as I had pretty much no money) and my job was delivering pizzas, the recession didn't affect me mu…