Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in writing and editing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mackenzie Godard, based in Victoria, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Writer. Editor. Thinker. Storyteller. As a professional writer, I bring thoughts, people, brands, and ideas to life through the written word. I specialize in thought leadership, copywriting, editorial content, and digital marketing. In the past ten-plus years, I've worked in all sorts of industries, from health and wellness to tech to entrepreneurship and beyond.
Tell us about yourself
When I was in third grade, my teacher gave each student a book at the end of the year. All of my classmates received the same chapter book — but I got a thesaurus. At first, I didn't get why she singled me out. But then I found a note inside that said, "Remember me when you're a famous writer."
I now have over seven years of experience in creating content that gets noticed. I've worked in-house for internationally recognized brands, and for award-winning agencies, with my work appearing in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Globe & Mail, Inc. Magazine, Huffington Post, and more. But something about working in an office, within the confines of the strict 9-to-5, never sat right with me. I couldn't do my best creative work while staring at the same wall every day.
So, just over three years ago, I took the plunge into solopreneur ship and left the stability of a full-time job behind. Now, I have the freedom to work when, where, and how I want with companies who understand that creativity doesn't always strike within set hours. I've never looked back. While "famous" might be a bit of a stretch, I'm proud of how far I've come in a relatively short time. Whatever Ms. Bruno saw in my eight-year-old self, looks like she was on to something.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I had a beautiful baby girl in January 2021, and I've been learning how to balance motherhood with business ownership. Being in charge of my own schedule has allowed me to take some much-needed time off with my daughter and to slowly ease back into work at my own pace. The ability to be a present mother while also providing for my child is by far my biggest accomplishment as a business owner.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It can be really hard, in the beginning, to keep believing in yourself and trust your own potential. When you just need to make money, it's tempting to say "yes" to every single opportunity that comes down the pipe. But two of the biggest lessons I've learned are not to work for brands that aren't aligned with your own values and, more importantly, not to undervalue yourself. If you do, you won't end up doing your best work which only hurts your reputation. But when you believe in the words you're putting to paper, and you're getting paid what you're worth, you'll always be willing to put your best work forward.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Number one, like I've already said, don't undervalue yourself. When you're starting out, it can feel really weird to charge a high rate (hello, imposter syndrome!), but I've found that good clients are always willing to pay appropriately for good work. Second, get out of the house. Sure, home offices are great, but I've always done my best thinking in bustling, vibrant atmospheres. Change up your scenery, and you'll change up your perspective. Lastly, take breaks. This is one of the best things about being in charge of my own schedule. I can pause in the middle of the day to do a quick yoga class or take my dog for a walk. It allows me to clear my head and come back to my computer refreshed.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you're thinking about going solo and starting your own business, the best thing you can do is stop thinking. Just do it. The time is going to pass anyway, so why not use it to build something for yourself? All it takes is one step forward, and then the next and the next. And before you know it, you will have created the life you've always imagined.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mackenziegodardcontent.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mackenziegodard_/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.