Set the bar a notch higher

During the first few months of my new copywriting career, I did quite a bit of piddling. I'd finish one project then play around before starting the next one.

For the first time in my life, I'm learning how to multi-task. I think women are better at it...something to do with keeping up with 3 different children doing 3 different things, perhaps.

A month ago I would have told you that multitasking is genetic, so if you can't do it, don't worry about it. I've since changed my mind, and I'll tell you why...

My wife and I have just made an offer on a house, and we've committed to putting a significant chunk of the money down. We have 30 days to come up with it. Although most of the money is already in the bank or I've at least invoiced a client for it...there are a few thousand dollars missing.

This has made me set my bar a little higher (or lower -- depending on if we're talking about the high jump or dancing the limbo). I have the projects to cover the money, but can I get them done in time...?

I'm astounded to hear myself say this, but I'm finding ways to knock out two projects at once. Basically what it boils down to is this: While I'm waiting for more information or edits on one project, I work on the second one and start collecting information about a third. This keeps my work staggered, so that by the time one project is completely out the door, the next one is halfway there, and any down time can be spent on a third project.

I made over $10,000 before taxes in October. For November I'm shooting for $15,000. Remember, I've only been back in the copywriting vein since April of this year. I'll let you know how it goes...and you let us know, too.

I'm looking forward to reading some comments. I put a counter on this page to see if I'm the only person reading it, and I am happy to see I'm not. So tell us what you're up to...