Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christina DeBusk, a health writer and editor; certified personal trainer, nutrition specialist & DNA-based fitness coach based in North Fort Myers, FL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I'm a freelance writer, and a majority of my clients are in the health and fitness industries. In my business, I've supplied research-based content for industry professionals, educational institutions, certifying agencies, professional magazines, and more. I also penned a column for Business Magazine called "The Successful Solopreneur."

Tell us about yourself

I originally started my career in criminal justice, working full-time in the courthouse and part-time at the local jail. But when my then-boyfriend, now-husband, was offered a job out of state, I decided to go with him. Since he had a position that required a fair amount of travel, I wanted a job that allowed me to travel with him. I'd always pictured myself writing for a living, so I figured it was a good time to make the switch. That was around 12 years ago, and I still feel incredibly grateful for the business I've built and grown. I now have the ability to earn a living while also creating a life that I love.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I don't know if there's any one "biggest accomplishment" that I've had as a business owner. Instead, it is more a series of small accomplishments that have added up to a satisfying career. For instance, I've become a better communicator, negotiator, and problem-solver as a business owner. I've also accomplished my goal of writing and publishing more than half a dozen books, along with several others that I've ghostwritten for people who have an important message or information to share with the world but don't have the time, desire, or capacity to write a book themselves.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

I'd say that one of my biggest challenges as a business owner is knowing when enough is enough. For instance, I have a tendency to say yes to new projects, even when my plate is already full. I also struggle to walk away from my computer at the end of the day (even if I've put in 14-16 hours) because there's always more work that can be done.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Don't compare your journey with anyone else's. When I started out, I felt discouraged because I didn't see success as quickly as others. I have since realized that no two people experience the same journey, whether in business or life. So now, instead of focusing on what others are doing, I concentrate on myself. This enables me to progress at my own pace and in my own way. And I'm much happier and content because of it.
  2. Trust your gut. When I first began freelance writing, I'd take any job that came my way. I convinced myself that it was the right thing to do, even if I didn't feel like it was a good fit. Every time I went against my gut, it turned into a negative experience. Now, I pay attention to how I feel when presented with a new project or client. If it doesn't feel right, I pass. I may lose some income, but I've also likely avoided a lot of frustration and stress as well.
  3. Deliver on your promises and then some. Do what you say you will do for your clients, then find small ways to do more. For me, this often involves turning work in earlier than anticipated, writing a few more words without charging for them, or simply responding to a client's correspondence within an hour or two versus waiting until the end of the day. You can stand out in your industry solely by providing good customer service. Find ways to make your clients want to come back to you, and that's what they'll do!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.christinamdebusk.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinamdebusk
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ChristinaDeBusk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinadebusk/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.