Read This If You’re Great at What You Do.

When I started my own freelance business in 2012, my goals were simple.

Help people.
Be less broke.

I started with a janky computer in a studio apartment that was definitely too small for two cats. My friends helped me put together a cheap desk, and I had a desktop computer from 2004 that came to life if I gave it five minutes.

Like many of the entrepreneurs I talk to, I had no idea what I was doing. I didn’t have any help, because I didn’t think I needed any. I was paying my bills. I was enjoying my work. 

But then the referrals started to come less often, and I started to feel . . . forgotten. And bored. 

I also felt a calling to do something . . . else. 

Inspired by the entrepreneurs I worked with, I realized my goals had shifted. I wanted MORE.

But I had no idea how to get there. I needed help.

I found an intensive that promised to help me grow my business. I remember the day that I maxed out my credit card on the initial payment. I crossed my fingers and even though I’m not a religious person, I said a little prayer. 

That was four years ago. And I have to say — the results have been epic. 

My business grew — by nearly 300% — but the best part wasn’t the money. 

It was how I grew.

You see, I used to be a hardcore people pleaser. 

I would literally settle for less. Friends who only showed up when they needed something. Clothes that didn’t fit. That beloved-but-janky desk, which rocked every time I wrote in a notebook. (I’m a writer; I do that a lot). 

I would let clients walk all over me, text me at night and while I was on vacation . . . 

And I definitely undercharged. 

All because I didn’t value myself. I was a best-kept secret for a reason — I was hiding.

When I look back at my business now, there is a clear before and after. My success isn’t due to the initial program I signed up for, or even the pressure of that maxed-out credit card.

Instead, it was how I felt inside. I knew that I wanted more than what I had at the time. Deep down, I knew I was settling for less. Underneath my surface smile, I felt used and angry and annoyed — at the people who treated me that way, but mostly at myself. 

Looking back, today I am so grateful.

First, for my own experience because I know how being a best-kept secret feels, as well as how challenging it can be to break free.

Second, for trusting myself enough to invest in my own change and development. While the business coaching I invested in wasn’t perfect — because nothing is — I did get the support and the tough love I needed. 

Third, I feel grateful for everyone reading this email because helping people has always been my goal. I want you to know that when I see your replies and open rates, I feel excited because I know I’m contributing to someone else’s dream.

Deciding to stop hiding, to stop being a best-kept secret was the best decision I made in my life — after saying yes to my future husband and moving to New York to start my career in publishing.

As a result of believing in myself — even just a teeny tiny bit — I was able to help more people. I got way less broke. I was able to grow and scale my business.

But even more than that — I was able to grow and scale how I see myself.

All because I decided to trust that voice inside of me that said . . . I WANT MORE.

I know that I’m not alone. There are probably thousands of best-kept-secrets out there who want to be known, who want to be heard, and who want to make a difference.

Who want to help people, be less broke, and — write a book.

I hope that this week, you give credit to yourself for how much you’ve been able to accomplish.

And maybe, just maybe, trust yourself to want more and take action on your dream so you have even more to feel grateful for next year.