As a freelance writer it is both exciting and nerve wracking to look back at my own work. Still, it's still important to looking back on what I’ve written and consider what I did well and what I could improve.
My three favorite projects from 2021
1. How to start a home garden
How to start a home garden feels like a natural choice for my first pick since I did it fairly early in the year. Plus, I love all things gardening and still remember how much I enjoyed writing this article. This is also particularly memorable because it was my third or fourth article for Best Reviews and, in turn, the Chicago Tribune so I was still very nervous.
Looking at it now, I appreciate how practical and beginner friendly it is. I wish I had written it tighter and there seems to be some fluff, but it’s a good article overall.
2. Here’s how successful support dogs are trained
Here's how successful support dogs are trained was one of my favorite articles of 2021 because it covered a subject I am passionate about but don’t often write on.
I trained my dog, Stone, and took the exam to get him certified as a therapy dog. Additionally, when I was a kid my family was puppy raisers for Guide Dogs For The Blind. Through those experiences I saw first hand the problem with people not knowing the difference between emotional support animals, therapy dogs and support dogs.
The article is a bit fluffy and a few of the affiliate links seem awkward; but, I still appreciate how valuable the information is and how fun this was to write.
3. 6 Must-Read Books To Kickstart The New Year
While it wasn’t published until 2022, 6 Must-Read Books To Kickstart The New Year was written in 2021. I loved this piece because I hadn’t written for a magazine in over a year and was ecstatic to have this opportunity. I read around 40 books over the course of 2021 so having the opportunity to write a compilation of useful books was also exciting.
I plan to continue this trend in 2022 and have a goal to read 55 books over the course of the year. I’ve read 12 books so far so I’m a bit behind schedule but am confident I can complete this goal and learn in the process.
Growing as a freelance writer
I want to improve my craft and constantly grow as a freelance writer and editor. One way I do that is by going back and looking at my mistakes.
I’ve been freelancing as a side-hustle since 2014, but 2021 was my first year writing full-time. Of course, there was a major learning curve and I made plenty of mistakes. I’m excited to be able to learn from those mistakes and be a better freelance writer in 2022.
I love writing tight, high-quality content so in 2022 I foresee writing more magazine articles, press releases and copy. Still, it’s fun to reflect on past experiences and remind myself how important it is to keep growing.
I have been a freelance content writer since 2014. I create SEO articles with clarity, quality and authenticity. If you are looking for a writer who delivers results, contact me.