How Michelle started her own freelance copywriting business

I met Michelle at the end of 2016, when she was settling into her new apartment in Paris. Michelle had read one of my posts about multi-passionate creative women and could see herself in what I was describing. What followed were some powerful months where Michelle got clear on what she wanted, and finally admitted her secret dreams to herself. Today – through Michelle’s hard work and dedication – those dreams are becoming reality. Here’s how she did it.

What was your big dream, and what inspired you to go after it?

To be honest, for a long time I felt sort of lost. I didn’t have just one dream. Instead, I had a thousand thoughts consisting of… “It would be awesome if…”. But one of the biggest ‘thoughts’ was to be able to travel the world and try new experiences. To be able to document these wonderful places forever, and sharing them with the world. That’s why I decided to move from North America to Paris with my husband. It was a dream we both shared so it made sense.

Did you always have this dream?

I always had many things I loved to do. I never thought there was a position that could encompass them all! Let alone creating a writing/copywriting business. It was never on my list. And then I read about this thing about “multi-passionate woman”. That’s how I met you. Through one of your blog posts. What caught my attention was your multi-passionate coaching series. I didn’t realize it till I read your blog. Wanting to be and do many things… was normal!

What was one of the first thing you did to get you started?

It seems so long ago. The first thing to get me started? Opening up to you. Trusting you and becoming more aware of myself. That freedom to become completely honest with myself opened so many doors for us… allowing us to dissect and explore.

What were the biggest challenges you faced in working toward achieving your dream?

There were a few. The biggest? The challenge of putting yourself out there, being vulnerable to failure or defeat. Those “villains” in the back of your head questioning your motives and moves. The 2nd biggest, starting your career over and having to learn new things. At my age, most people think, ” You’re too old.” or “It’s too late.” Let me tell you, I feel so young right now. Everything is fresh and new. Sometimes I feel like I’m turning “ageless”. It’s quite exhilarating.

What do you wish you would have done differently? What would you warn others about?

To not have been so stubborn to learn things on my own. I would suggest to save time and sanity, look at the areas you need improvement in or struggle with. Look into a mentor or get help from a person specialized in that area. With their expertise you’ll be able to weave your way to your goals a lot faster, and perhaps be introduced to other people or tools to help you with your goal.

Would you say you’ve achieved your big dream yet?

Yes and no. I’ve actually turned this dream into a step in order to achieve a final goal… much grander in scale. So yes, I’ve hit my milestones – creating a business, obtaining new experiences and sharing them. But as you develop, so do your dreams. This business has become the first step to a vision I imagined only a few years ago! A vision I never thought could be possible. Today I see it. The final destination. With all the lovely little branches of goals (soon to be turned into milestones)… that include all the things I’ve ever wanted to do.

What do you think helped you achieve it?

Your and your coaching series was the supporting force to this grand plan. Previous to working with you, I never believed I had a big dream. I just wanted to be happy. I felt lost on where to go or what to do to get to that place. But through your contagiously amazing aura, I broke free from a life with no direction.

What’s the best advice you have for others who want to follow their big dreams?

As Nike says, “Just do it”.

More about Michelle – michellemedia.ca

Michelle is a Canadian writer, explorer, believer and inspirer, design thinker, design lover, and designer of her life. She currently lives in Paris but who knows where her big dream will take her next?

If you’re looking for a writer/copywriter you can contact Michelle at michellemedia.ca or I can put you in touch directly.

You can follow Michelle’s new adventures on instagram @michellenouvelle and on her blog michellenouvelle.com.

Michelle’s favourite quote:

Don’t be afraid of your fears. They’re not there to scare you. They’re there to let you know that something is worth it.
– C. Joybell C.

Michelle’s big dream for the world:

To have the courage to go after their dreams. Every single one of them.

If you want more inspiring stories, I’ve got great news for you! This story is part of an interview series, you can find all entries here.