Comments on: Writing Tool #2: Flexibility

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:49:21 +0000

There's nothing wrong with finding out something doesn't work and dropping it or changing it; however, too many people aren't willing to give it a reasonable shot. The minute anything is hard or takes actual work, they won't do it. They say "can't", they mean "won't", but they refuse to take responsibility for it.

Trying new things, learning new things IS hard and takes work. Stopping the minute you're challenged is just as counterproductive as sticking with something long after it no longer works.

By: Lori

Lori — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:13:15 +0000

Cathy, we learn that lesson the tough way, but we sure do learn it! I took on bad projects all too often in the beginning. Learning how to walk away did so much good for my business.

Jake, I can't say it without thinking it. :) Great point about adapting to the client's preferred process. I've had to use bulleted lists, daily notes, weekly updates, etc. based on what they've wanted. Happy to do it as it keeps us both on track and eliminates the guessing. I think what's missing is the spring in my step -- thanks for the reminder. ;)

Paula, we are chameleons!

By: Paula

Paula — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:34:16 +0000

Flexibility applies to many things: Time, fees, assignments, subjects, project types, office location and as Jake noted, in dealing with people.

Freelancers are the chameleons of the business world.

By: Jake P

Jake P — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 14:37:36 +0000

Clearly I'm a GenXer, based on hearing "what the hell" and immediately thinking of the saltier phrase used in "Risky Business."

I'd like to think I'm pretty flexible with managing client workstyles, though I prefer some to others. Like the example I used yesterday, I'm *personally* a person for whom constant updates seem like busywork; by if that's what the payer prefers, I'll adapt with a smile on my face and a spring in my step.

By: Cathy Miller

Cathy Miller — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:58:24 +0000

Love this attitude as well. Hey, if you don't take care of business, who will? :-)

I particularly like the abandon what you thought would be good ideas if they don't strengthen your business. When I first started my business, I fell into old corporate habits and took on projects for my former employer that really didn't fit my new business and were not even something I enjoyed. It was the insecurity of moving into untried territory that had me falling back on what was safe.

Once I committed to the risks of my new business, I was able to move on and was much happier for it.