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On Owning Your Personal Economy


Five years ago, I got fired by the President…

(…of the small company I worked for in Orlando :-))

It’s a long story you can check out later if you want, but just know that it was not pretty. I left with no reference, and the people at the top actually tried to make things worse for me in some kind of sick vengeance game.

For the three weeks following, I was depressed. I felt like the world had its thumb on me and that external forces were impeding me from making progress. How would I ever recover from this mess, this humiliation? What if that was my last chance at success?

Bouncing Back

Somewhere around Year Two of the last five years, I figured out that my brain still had the ability to learn new things. I figured out that just because I’d finished college and gotten my degree didn’t mean I was done learning or adding skills.

I had also figured out that it was possible to create my own income, and I had already been proofreading on the side with a few clients… but I hadn’t figured out the full-on freelancing thing yet.

Until I did and, when I did, everything changed.

I’m not going to get into the mechanics of my proofreading business in this post — there are plenty of other posts on the blog about that. Instead what I want to focus on is the mindset shift that occurred.

It’s a mindset shift that must occur for anyone who wants to succeed in anything, whether that’s earning more income, losing weight, getting out of a bad relationship… anything.

Owning Your Personal Economy

So what’s my point here? The point is that we create our own opportunities. We’re in control of our personal economy. We have the biggest say over what happens in our lives — and what doesn’t.

The hard part is owning that.

When I got fired, I thought someone else was in control; I thought there was some invisible authority out there who was going to knock me down every time I tried to step out and recover from that experience.

Back when I had only two clients, I thought that I couldn’t take on any more than that. I had boxed myself in with false beliefs.

I was the one standing in my way.

I eventually realized if I wanted to earn more money, I’d have to figure out how to streamline my processes to do that. Once I did that, more opportunities arose which led to me creating this blog and my course. Even crazier opportunities have come from that.

It’s a snowball effect. Skills lead to more skills, and more skills lead to more income.

Three things I want to hammer into your head… and into mine (because I need constant reminders):

  1. Your brain is not at capacity.
  2. Skills are the only thing you need to generate income (as much income as you want — seriously!)
  3. You’re not stuck with what you’ve got unless you refuse to take steps to change it.

Why depend on someone else to change our lives? Imagine if we spent that time — or even just an equal amount of time — investing in the skills we needed to change.

Make yourself responsible for what happens or what doesn’t… and take some crazy action on that responsibility.

(Feel free to comment below :-))


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  1. Would like eventually to continue course. My life is in limbo now. I’ve lost my house, etc because of Hurricane Matthew. Until my life becomes more stable, I can’t continue.
    Thanks,
    Cindy

    1. No worries, Cindy. The course isn’t going anywhere. You do your thing. The important part is to keep going in general 🙂 Never give up.

  2. Inspiring words, Caitlin!
    Who’s in the oval office, though there is some influence there, ultimately it is up to us to decide what to do with our lives. Hence, as insane as it sounds, I’m working through a ghostwriting certification course, because in the next four years I plan on making that my career and honing those skills so that I end up doing something meaningful.
    Thanks again, and best of luck in your endeavors!

    1. Preach it!! Ghostwriting is huge. ‘Cause there are lots of folks who NEED to write but can’t… Kyle to the rescue!!

    2. Hi Kyle,
      I’m interesed in Ghostwriting as well. Wouldn’the mind finding out more about the certification process.

        1. Kyle, I’m interested also. I’ll shoot you an em also, if you don’t mind?! Thank you!

  3. Hey Caitlin,
    Nice to see you in ny inbox. I love your thoughts and further information. I have some health issues to resolve before I can further my career search and probably will never have money to invest in your course but love the idea of proofreading as a career.
    Bethe Avery

  4. This was an excellent post. We are the only ones who can make change in our lives Before enrolling in your course I had one off and on client and even though I have not completed the course I have one reporter who is a regular, but I am not discouraged because I have begun to work on a PhD, so my focus has shifted slightly. I wasn’t fired like you experienced, but I was an office manager for a court reporter and due to the differences in personalities after 3 years, it was the best decision, to start a proofreading business. I love to proofread and I love to write. My point the worse thing at the time can happen to make you shift your goals for the better.

    1. That is so awesome, Kristi! I actually love hearing from working proofreaders who have not taken my course! I previously thought they all hated me for spilling the beans about the gig 🙂 Lol. But what you said here is so true — I was fired from a court reporting office, and it turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened!!

      1. Even though I was already proofreading, I wanted something to improve my skills and so your course has helped tremendously

  5. This article is amazing and inspiring. I couldn’t even tell you the amount of jobs I passed up because I didn’t think I was able to perform the duties that was required of me. The amount of applications I just scrolled through because I would read the headline and be like nope, I can’t do that. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this.

    1. Right!! I can absolutely relate. I went to personal training school back in 2011, right after I got fired, and would you believe it — I almost didn’t start because I didn’t know how to be a personal trainer. LOL. The school was meant to TEACH me that, though! Silly me. We so underestimate ourselves.

  6. Hi Caitlyn,
    Great post. People, in general, seem to rely on the Government WAY too much for their “salavation.”

    This is probably going to sound cliche, but one positive thing in my life right now is the Proofread Anywhere course. Although it has challenged me and knocked me to my knees a couple of times, it has restored my belief in myself. It has helped to change my mindset to believing that I was worthless and unable to contribute to our family’s finances to believing that I am still that smart, determined, hard worker that I was when I graduated from Veterinary School in 1999.

    I’m working on finishing the course and beginning WORK and I’m helping my husband start a blog about what we do as cattle producers. I see a light out there now where there was non before PA.

    1. I am so glad to hear that, Jennifer!! It has surprised me as well over the last two years that learning proofreading, for many, becomes about so much more than proofreading 🙂

  7. Caitlin — you’re always spot on my friend!

    Thank you for the great post and encouragement.

      1. Thanks for your posts Caitlin. I’m still trying to find the funds to take your course, as I’m determined to chart my own way to success. Proofreading is one of my goals.

  8. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! I refuse to believe that there is nothing to be done but watch someone else call all of the shots. We have more power than we give ourselves credit (and yes, responsibility) for. If there was ever a time to take some control, now would be it! Thank you for your positivity. ?

    PS: I am finishing Module 8 as we speak. I am so exicted for what the future holds for me! Thank you for a great course!

    1. WOO! Awesome, Megan!! Getting close to the end 🙂 Now is always the best time to take control. Of something. ANYTHING. The worst thing we can think is that there’s nothing we can do to improve anything. There is ALWAYS something 🙂

  9. Was so depressed yesterday when my daughter woke me from SA with the Trump news that my husband had to take me out for both lunch and dinner!
    Today the spirit is renewed and I’m painting my pantry quickly before art class. Amazing how quickly we can bounce back if we set our minds to it.

    1. Exactly!! We need more news barking and blaring about how powerful our minds are. Not all this mud-slinging! When we focus inward, things change. Focusing outward just gets us spinning our wheels and wasting our precious time.

  10. This is such an encouragement for the time, Caitlin!! Great way of looking at any situation! Thank you!!

  11. Thank you so much for this reminder!! I know I am my own worst enemy and need to be my own hero! I have been not doing my part with this course and letting things interfere. I need to cut that out and get on with it and change my life on my own! Thanks for the inspiration!

    1. Now THAT was a battle cry! You go, Shauna! Discipline has been really key for me and realizing that it’s not motivation that makes people successful… it’s showing up and doing something. Making even the smallest amount of progress every day regardless of whether they feel like it or not.

  12. Great reminder! As the old saying goes, I am the captain of my life. I thik we sometimes forget that. After all, the majority of messages “out there” tell us to blame others for our circumstances. When in reality we alone are responsible for our circumstances. Thanks for the reminder.

    1. So true. The media is all about pointing fingers, aren’t they?! Nobody gets on TV to talk about self improvement. Haha 🙂

  13. I proofread deposition transcripts from home. I would like to continue doing that. (I’m a court reporting student that didn’t finish, and I’m paying back student loans.)

    I am a fiction-writer-in-training who finished drafting a novel. It’s now in the hands of some secondary readers and I’m expecting feedback in a few weeks.

    I’m also the mom of a teenager with autism who will soon be 18. My husband and I are applying to get legal guardianship of him, mostly for his protection. I don’t like using the word “incompetent” but there are some decisions he just doesn’t have the capacity to make at this point in his life.

    1. Fantastic, Tina! Thanks for sharing. You definitely sound like the kind of parent your son needs — and you’re an action taker!!

  14. hi my name is Cheri and I’m currently taking the transcription course with Janet. I am loving it although it’s hard work eventually i want to get into proofreading and start working from home. Truly the currently job i have as a nanny takes it toll on me. I have been a teacher for 11 years!!!! it’s time for a change and i would love to work from home.

  15. Very well said! I think I really needed to hear this actually because I have been wanting to get into proofreading but I have no idea how to get clients. I actually gave up because after contacting many places and people that may need a proofreader, I have gotten 0 responses. I tried putting my name out there and even offered free work just to get myself going but I haven’t had any luck. I have the skills I just really started to feel like creating my own income just isn’t for me. This makes me really sad because it is all I want to do. I know I could be so great at it… but I haven’t gotten my chance yet and I don’t know how to get that chance. All I want is to be able to work from home and make enough money that I don’t have to look for jobs, I can just stay at home and work my butt off from home. I have been told numerous times by my Dr. that I have to take it easy and I have to find a job that isn’t physical because of a health problem I have. I have been desperately trying to find a way to make an income from home, that would stop my husband from being so stressed.. a way to provide my half of income to help build the life we want. I have just had no luck and I hope I am able to change that. Thank you very much for the motivation!

    1. Hey, Amber!! Perhaps specializing would be key for you. A lot of my students had proofreading skills but were experiencing the same problem you are currently facing before seeking structured training. Focusing and expanding their skills (and learning proactive marketing) have been the secret ingredients that took them from frustrated to financially stable.

  16. Could not have said it better….we are the only ones who hold ourselves back from success. Complacency and comfort can be our worst enemies at times.

    1. Yes. My MOOD, too, has been SO BAD the last week. Hormone related, but emotions and moods are so powerful and can control us if we aren’t aware of them.

  17. I definitely needed this today. Changes have to be made in my life for me to stay sane and I’m the only one who can make those changes. I’m fired up!!!

  18. Great, positive post! Since over half the country’s voters are disappointed in the election results (and that’s been true of most elections), we all need to take charge of our own lives. Some things are beyond our control, but all is not lost.

    1. Totally. There is so much that directly affects us that IS in our control, and if we focus on that — focus inward — incredible things can happen.

  19. I love this! I’ve had very similar thoughts myself. I am trying to take control of my finances by starting my own businesses. I think it’s the best way to protect yourself from economic conditions. I just walked away from a job because things were getting nasty. Thank you for writing this!

  20. Hello there,

    Thanks for sharing your personal story . You won’t possibly know how much your article spoke to my situation which happens to be where you were a while ago . I got fired just over three years ago , I tried to get a new job this year and lost the two great job opportunities because someone from my past organisation said something that resulted in a defamatory write up by a reporter . One thing led to another and I am in a situation where it feels like there is a conspiracy to make me lose my identity after building my career and rising to the position of a middle manager and executive . I feel like my world has caved in and I can’t figure out what to do . However , your write up is so spot on and I promise I will read through it again and again until I internalize some of the key points you have made . Once again , thanks for sharing this inspiring article .

    1. I understand feeling like you’re under siege, but I absolutely believe you CAN take control. You’ve got this!

  21. One thing that’s good in my life right now? Only ONE?? 🙂 Can’t do it; you’ll have to hear a bunch!

    I have completed the proofreading course and just got my certificate. I’m working on setting up my website and other aspects of a full-blown virtual agency (proofreading plus bookkeeping plus maybe travel coordination).

    My other business (making quilts and other hand-crafted items) just picked up two new good-sized orders!

    I have the most fantastic husband and kids ever!

    It’s November in Chicagoland, the sun is shining, and it’s relatively warm outside!

    Life isn’t just good. It’s AMAZING!!

    Krista

  22. Always love your positivity, Caitlin! I admit I’ve been in a funk lately — election, major life-altering decision to make, everyday stress and life — and I’m forcing myself to maintain a positive outlook. I’m due with our third child in a few weeks and that has me run-down, cranky, achy, and overall just not feeling like myself. I hate not being able to keep up with my life like I’m used to, but I’m shifting my focus to preparing for a new little joy and some rest at home afterwards. And then finally cranking away at the course! Being grumpy never solved any problems!

  23. The first person I talked to (text) at 1 am on election night was my friend who voted for Trump. We decided to have lunch together on Wednesday, and we did. I told her I love her “no matter what”. Friendship trumps politics. 🙂

  24. Agree to what you stated. That we can limit ourselves in our mindset.

  25. I actually feel really good about the outcome of the Presidential election. I am currently working on getting my own bookkeeping business going and have a really great opportunity at this time. I also have a couple of other things (that are on the back burner now) planned for my future. One of those is this proofreading course as well as Janet’s transcription course. My ultimate goal is to complete both and add virtual services to my virtual bookkeeping business. Within the next five years (waiting on my toddler to get a little bit older) I plan to go back to technical school and get my accounting degree. With that, I want to add CPA to my name and bookkeeping business. I love to learn if you can’t already tell. I’m so ambitious that I have had to make myself slow down. If I am being truthful, I’ve made myself slow down due to a couple of breakdowns…ha ha.

    I forgot to add that I purchased the Ultimate Bloggers Bundle last week. I do not want to make blogging a full-time career but an addition to the services I am going to offer in my business.

    Sometimes I wonder if I am crazy. I am juggling all this with three kids and a husband. I keep telling myself that I am doing all this for them, too. I want a flexible schedule so that I can be there for them while providing an income. How awesome is it that I can work but that work is really a hobby?

  26. My family is devastated with the results! My aunt is from Jamaica, and she thinks Trump wants to make life hard for all non-American born citizens, illegal or not! It’s reassuring to know that Hillary can still have a say in what goes on in the domestic policies, though!

    On a side note, one positive thing I’m doing is learning how to cook and eat healthy. Being both 21 and an ectomorph, it’s easy for me get away with eating fast food all the time. But as a result I experience a lot of brain fog and often feel sluggish. There’s no way that I can catch all the errors in transcripts without first having a sharp brain!

  27. Thanks for this timely post and for your inspiring words, Caitlin.

    I initially signed up for the course about 11 months ago but had to (temporarily) quit because of some major health issues (hypertension, blindness in both eyes, prostate cancer, chronic anemia, and more). I also lost my job working as an academic writing tutor for a local college. At the time, my future—including life itself—was uncertain, and I lapsed into some despair.

    However, thanks to our stellar medical system, I am now on the mend, and my prognosis is good:
    – My vision is at about 80% and improving
    – I’ve had two eye surgeries with one to go
    – I am undergoing monthly injections in both eyes to correct some swelling issues
    – I’ll begin radiation treatments in about 3 weeks to take care of the prostate cancer
    – Still working on the anemia

    Btw, major kudos to the MD Anderson Cancer Centers/Baptist Health System professionals who are taking care of me. I could not ask for better treatment. Also, Dr. Levinson, who is taking care of my vision, is the absolute bomb!

    Now that I can see again, I have enrolled in your full (Basic) course and am excitedly going through it. Although I had already progressed as far as Module 5, Unit 2, I have opted to start over, just to make sure.

    No more despair! I am optimistically looking forward to a brighter future because I will be able to be productive again doing something that I love (thanks to you).

    I hope/plan to finish the course by the end of the year or early next year. Thanks for putting this course together and for all of the assistance you make available to your students. It means a lot to us all.

    Joshua

    1. Your story really made me feel good. Your fighting for what you want and not letting anything hold you back. Very inspiring. I just started the course on election day and I’m very excited to be apart of it. I send you many blessings of success on your journey to good health and beyond.

  28. Hi Caitlin,

    Since finding ProofreadingAnywhere and completing the Beginners Basecamp I have had some sleepless nights. Mostly due to many ‘Make Money at Home” scams out there and not really trusting that this is on the up and up. I currently have a job where I travel extensively, but work from home when I am not at a client. I’ve been doing it for nine years and it has worn on me. I love working at home as the dynamics of my family life have changed with my husband having severe RA, so I’ve been looking for something close to home. Well nothing can pay me what I make now in the area that I live, so either I need to find my own way, or I take a huge pay cut.

    This blog is my deciding factor. I can relate to everything you have pointed out and told me about yourself. I too was fire from a job I really didn’t like but gave my 200% to. I too felt humiliated, depressed, and lost. But I recovered because my Mother always taught me that I am in control of my own destiny. I went back to school and completed my bachelor and Masters degree in Business Administration, worked in Finance and Accounting, and now am consulting for a company that deals in software for Higher Education. I was happy with my current employer because it was challenging and fun, and make pretty good money. But in recent years the company dynamics have changed, my personal life has changed, and neither seem to fit into each others worlds. It’s time for a change.

    I am investing into this course because; 1) I can work on it anywhere. 2) When I feel comfortable with the new skills I will be learning I can start out small and still work at my current job until I feel I can safety quit. And 3) I’ve seen the support and the endless opportunities that face me when I begin this journey.

    Thank you so much for creating such a structure that allows a person with doubts as to whether this is a serious “be in control and make money from anywhere” situation. I know by the materials just in the Beginners BaseCamp that this is going to be a challenge. And that’s ok. Nothing is easy in life and it takes time and dedication to be successful in anything we do.

  29. I voted for Donald Trump and am so pleased he won! Shocking for an environmentalist from the San Fransisco Bay Area, right? He has an excellent track record with creating jobs, whereas Hillary has virtually none. My husband is a small-business owner, and I can finally breathe easy knowing that our new leadership will mend our economic disaster (rather than make empty promises) and give small business the support it needs. On another positive note, I am thrilled to be well on my way in this incredible course! It has been fulfilling in so many ways. Thank you, Caitlyn, for providing a means by which so many people can follow their dreams. I can’t tell you how excited I am to be able to stay at home with my three children while doing my part to provide financially!

    1. I am so sorry for the misspelling, Caitlin! I know the frustration, as I get two Ls all the time! ?

    2. Agreed, I see I may be in the minority here, but that is okay. I will also be brave and say our family was relieved Trump won. We, as small business owners have suffered directly and greatly last 7 years under O’s crushing regulations and ACA, which was not ‘A’ at all and almost bankrupted us. I am cautiously but very optimistic about our country’s new direction. I am hoping many here find goodness and improvement for their own situations and their families, you might be pleasantly surprised!

      And I agree with Caitlin 100 %, YOU are your own President! Let them duke it out in DC, let us work on each of our own personal journeys and continue to inspire each other here! We are all much more alike than different.

      Good luck everyone! Go for it!
      Peace and Prosperity for all!

      1. I think you’re right. I find so much common ground in my students even though they are diverse in so many ways. We can all cheer each other on and focus on our own success. 🙂

  30. Hey Caitlin – great parallel with the election hang-over!

    We do have so much more power (and potential) than we realize. If nothing else, this election was a wake-up call for many. I’ve been surprised by the number of friends who have said to me, “it’s been a lesson learned to understand things more and stay CURRENT with things, not just every four years.” But, each in his own time.

    As for me, I am an Artist and will continue make work that lifts people up, helps them think and moves society forward. Great post!

  31. Thank you Caitlin! I needed this motivation and information. I certainly appreciate your message. I’m almost there. A few more things to do on my end and I’ll be enrolling. I literally hate my job and looking forward to your course.

  32. Yesterday I was profoundly upset and disappointed. Today, I’m still not back to normal, but if I want something to change for the better, I have to make it happen. I can’t sit back and cry about it.

    Due to many things, my life is pretty much upside down right now. But the upside is that I’m lucky enough to be healthy, so I appreciate that very much.

  33. When the election results came in I was struck with a deep sense of despair and sadness. But instead of wallowing on Facebook I was inspired to dig that much deeper into bettering myself and succeeding at this course. All these results have done is make me that much more determined to change my life for the better. Caitlyn, your post was dead on. WE are the captains of our ship. There can only be one captain and whether the ship sails into the sunset or crashes into the rocks is entirely up to us. Personal responsibility is a major factor in growth and success.

    1. That’s a great response! Wouldn’t it be great if we ALWAYS responded to disappointment by seeing how we can make ourselves better?

  34. Thanks, Caitlin! I was/am in a similar situation. I had to take a leave of absence from my job last year to care for both of my parents who were diagnosed with terminal cancer. After 6 weeks the company I worked for had to fill my position and I had to resign. There was always the sentiment of “we are sorry about what you are going through and would love to have you back” Unfortunately, both my parents passed away this year and after months of grieving I was ready to go back to work. Little did I know that I would not be welcomed back. Several jobs came up that I was more than qualified for and I was told they “were going a different way” but come to find out a person I worked with had badmouthed me to supervisors and management. She was known for talking about people behind their back and then smiling to their face. She convinced my previous supervisor, as well as the executive director of her opinions of me. Some of my co-workers fought for me to come back but were informed to “let it go” by management. I have always been a hard worker I didn’t have any bad reviews and my yearly reviews were excellent. This whole situation has hurt me immensely since I received so much sympathy for my family loss. Anyway, I have been searching for a job in my previous industry and out for over 3 months and I have not
    received a call. I took your seven day course and I enjoyed it but finding something on my own has been difficult due to feeling apprehensive and somewhat down on myself. After that treatment my confidence is in the can. Your post has given me a little hope and I thank you. Judy

    1. It’s always hard when we are hurt by those we thought were friends, but we don’t have to let them have power or influence our future. We can take the lessons they taught us and move forward wiser and stronger. You’ve got this!

  35. Thank you for the encouraging words, Caitlin! I couldn’t help but think of one of my favorite quotes while reading your post. I’m sure you’ve heard it before…

    “The longer I love, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company…a church….a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past…we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude…I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you…we are in charge of our attitudes.”
    ― Charles R. Swindoll

    Life has been a little crazy for me lately. My husband and I recently decided to move back to my home town, which is very exciting! I only have the final exam to do before I can say I’ve completed the Jumpstart Course. I’ll be studying up for that over the next few days. Once we get moved and settled, I’ll be diving in to the rest of the course. Super stoked for the challenge!

    1. SUCH a great quote! Thank you for sharing. Some days it may seem like the ONLY thing we’re in charge of, but we are ALWAYS in charge of our attitudes.

      1. Love that quote too! The book Man’s Search for Meaning (a short read) by Victor Frankl is SO inspiring too. He was a holocaust survivor who said that no matter what is done to us, we can still control our attitude. It’s a great book and not depressing as you might expect given the subject matter.

        Thanks Caitlin for this post! I was disappointed by the election results and had a good cry (ok a few) over it, but I’m feeling more hopeful now. And I’m glad we didn’t have to see how bad the protests/backlash would have been if Hillary had won. We can’t control the big things sometimes, but we can control how we treat ourselves and others. Every day and in every way, we can make the world around us more peaceful and healthy.

        1. Hey Beth, we have that book in our collection. : )
          It is amazing!!

  36. THANK YOU for this post! I have been hemming and hawing and telling myself that I’ll restart this course and this time I’ll DO it. . .
    My life has been going GREAT and I’m looking forward to the future, even if the election didn’t quite go as planned….why not start now, instead of waiting for (tomorrow, next month, the first of the year, etc).

    Thanks again!!

  37. Yesterday I was very sad about the outcome of the election; so I took our puppy out for several long walks to think things over. Just being out with him and his infectious good mood, endless curiosity (who knew there were so many things that need to be sniffed?) reminded me that even though things didn’t go the way I wanted them to, there’s a lot of good around. There are kind people, happy animals and the area where I live is truly beautiful – these things won’t change no matter who is sitting in the Oval Office. I think the thing is to concentrate on whatever you believe it is that is for good in the world, and strive towards that. My energy doesn’t have to be affected by fear and doom. My energy can be positive and hopefully that will have a positive impact on whatever the future may bring. Right this minute now, things haven’t changed too much. I don’t want my outlook to be fearful. If something real comes along that is scary, I’ll be scared then, but I don’t want to be worried now when things are relatively the same today as they were on Monday. We don’t know what’s going to happen and I don’t want to get caught in the trap of feeling anxious when we don’t know what may or may not happen. It’s the worst use of my imagination. And the puppy? He’s had a lot of walks – he’s knackered!

  38. Thank you for your post. Right now I’m working on writing a couple of books. Exciting stuff! Have a great day!

  39. Caitlin,

    So good to see a post from you in my inbox. Currently, after 16 years in a job I enjoy, I find myself needing to create a change (and a challenge) in my life. Something that I can build and expand on in the future . That’s why I’m so excited about the opportunity to learn new skills in PA and I can’t wait to get started. The possibilities are endless….

  40. The biggest positive thing in my life right now is the education of my kids. I homeschool them, so their academic progress along with their development into responsible, well-adjusted, productive members of society is a huge part of my life right now.

    In addition, I feel as though I’ve made great strides in the past couple of years in learning to protect my mental and emotional health. In the past, I’ve felt very overwhelmed by fears of the current circumstances and fear of the future. My faith is a huge part of my life, and I have found peace in strengthening it and in putting more importance on my physical health (good nutrition and exercise). It has made a huge difference for me, and I find myself much less unsettled during this election cycle then in years past.

    Thanks for the encouraging words today!

  41. Since I became a mother 16 years ag, of course my life has been devoted to others. When our special needs daughter was born 13 years ago, that intensified exponentially. The past five years placed me in the sandwich generation in caring for my mother, especially in 2015 when she was on hospice, plus the first third of 2016 cleaning out her home of 55 years. Then an intensive five months with my special needs daughter winning a pageant – which literally became a part-time job for me.

    For the first time in all these years, I’m facing nothing on my plate but my immediate family (whose needs are still considerable, but significantly less than they were). For the first time in almost two decades, I can focus on me. Getting me healthy, because all that stress has taken a *serious* toll. Getting my house under control, because the clutter has nearly swallowed me. Getting our difficult-to-maintain property under control.

    It may sound selfish, but I’m excited about being able to focus on just me and my concerns without feeling guilty for taking the time to take care of myself. I am indeed president of my life, and I’m thankful!

  42. This is beautiful and hits home with me! I also was fired from a job, which turned out to be the best thing for me (though I didn’t realize it at the time!). Losing my job was the push I needed to start my own freelance business. And now your course is giving me the tools and opportunity to expand my business…and my profits! Thank you, Caitlin, for your encouraging words and the affirmation that we really can do anything we set our minds to do!

  43. There are some things that I cannot control. HOWEVER, taking control of the things I can is a good and valid point. Thank you for the reminder!

  44. Thanks for this convicting and uplifting post, Caitlin. I’m hoping to enroll in your proofreading course in the very near future–that’s the positive thing I’m working toward!

  45. Thanks, Caitlin. That was very well said. I completely agree that our lives are what we make of them. I know this is not exactly what your post was calling for, but I wanted to do what I could to assuage the fears of those who have heard the horror stories about Trump. I have studied him closely and even been somewhat involved in his campaign, and I truly believe that he and his supporters want nothing more than to make America a better place for everyone. I am saddened when I see young people protesting (sometimes violently) in the streets. It almost seems like they have given up on themselves and on America, and that is a terrible place to be. Again, my purpose here is not to convert anyone, but to do my best to encourage the wonderful people who are part of this program, who have already taken steps to improve their lives, to be optimistic about the future. However, please feel free to delete my post if you feel it is too political.
    Abby

    1. I just wanted to add that I am a non-religious, well-educated, Hispanic woman living in Los Angeles, not exactly what the media would call the ‘Trump demographic.’

    2. “he and his supporters want nothing more than to make America a better place for everyone”

      You may have seen something privately to support that, but publicly he sure has said and done a lot to contradict that, for many people in this country of another race, sex, religion, etc. And his supporters? I see a lot of Trump stickers and confederate flags together wishing for the good old days. That’s not better for everyone. He appealed to those folks and didn’t discourage their words or actions one bit. I believe the protests are mild compared to how some of his supporters would have reacted.

      People haven’t given up on America; they don’t want to go backwards after getting this far, which is still short of equal to the privileged folk. I hope he will be a good President, and I pray for him every day for the humility, decency, and wisdom he so sorely needs.

      I too am ok if you don’t post my response. But if so, please consider taking down the original one because it’s inflammatory too.

      1. I’m very sorry that you feel that way. I was just trying to encourage others, not start a political debate. The election is over; it’s time to be positive and work together to make our country better.

  46. Great post, Caitlin! I can relate to what you’re saying. Hoping to get that extra push to do what I want.

    Thanks

    Clementina

  47. I really enjoyed reading this very relevant blog. It was very encouraging to me!

    I am currently working on the things you spoke of – undergoing a mindset shift, taking action, believing that I have the capacity left to learn and grow much more, and taking charge and responsibility for my own life. It can be a hard lesson, but I am willing to learn it.

  48. I too am happy that Trump won. I think in time more people will realize it’s a great thing for our country, just my opinion.

    I am excited about getting started proofreading! I recently graduated and I’m working on my website. LinkedIn will be next.

    Thank you Caitlin for all you do to inspire and encourage us!!

    1. Yikes! I just caught some typos in my post. I am typing on my phone and in a hurry while babysitting two little ones (they are asleep). Sorry for the mistakes!!!

  49. Thank you for your experience and encouragement, Caitlin!
    I just walked out on my job in June because the oppression was unbearable. I was a good employee. I had never called in for over 10 years. I went above and beyond my job description. I supported many. My supervisor and a coworker were friends and persecuted others that were not in there click, including me. I was witness to ethical violations. I left. Doing so, I left all my friends, my sparkling reputation, my reference. I felt, and still feel, helpless. I have nightmares about my job. I don’t want to start the new job hunt. Then I saw your ad. I read your books. I enrolled in your course. I am currently on a roller coaster ride of “I can do it!” and tears of “I can’t do this.” Your emails, posts, and comments always seem to come at a time when I am low and need to be picked up again. You have returned email responses to me almost immediately. Your support, your experience, your outlook is invaluable.
    I am working on becoming president of my own life. Until I get there, Caitlin for President!

    1. I know that was an awful situation, but now that you’re out of that toxic situation, you can soar! Caitlin for president of my life and Mickey for president of yours!

  50. Hi Caitin!
    Thank you for your post and e-mail. I am currently reviewing the 7 day and videos. Would love to keep going!

  51. Thank you Caitlin for these words of wisdom. I am currently working through your course and I’m stuck thinking that I will not be able to pass the Module 5 quiz. But this post just shows me that only I can control what is going to happen in my future. Thanks for your empowering words.

  52. I enjoyed reading this post; it’s very inspiring! In fact, I’ve bookmarked it for future reference. 🙂 The most positive thing going on right now for me is decorating my new house. Between that and working my daily jobs, I’m making time for the course, as well. My days are quite busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

  53. Hey Caitlyn,

    I have not started proofreading, but I knew I had to read this blog. And I agree with it. I challenged myself to write 50 haikus, and write about each of them in a stream of consciousness, and publish it into a book. I want to do just that.

    I haven’t gotten to 50 (pretty close), but I think I have enough. 🙂 This is definitely something I want.

  54. Hi Caitlin,

    I’ve already responded but would like to share my own personal motto with the group. Whenever I am feeling as though there is nothing more I can do to improve a situation, thinking about these words helps me to refocus and continue moving forward:

    “No matter how well it is currently being done, it can almost always be done better, faster, or more efficiently.”

    Because I absolutely believe this to be true, I am encouraged to LOOK for the “better, faster, or more efficient” approach.

    Joshua

    1. Yes! We can ALWAYS be improving. We’ll never reach perfection, but that’s no reason not to try to get there anyway!

  55. Thank you for your words of encouragement, Caitlin. I started this course over a year ago as I was in a place I didn’t want to be and I knew I could do better. Since then, I did get a better job which is basically proofreading. What I did learn from the course so far is that I absolutely love proofreading the transcripts. I will finish it just don’t know when. I want to read the Bad Grammar / Good Punctuation book first…it’s a really wonderful read. I love the facebook group. It’s so positive and uplifting. I enjoy seeing the different people graduating and the words of encouragement.

  56. I have promised myself to do something everyday to get me closer to my goal of being able to work from home. I have to admit that nothing happened on Tuesday. I was in tears and couldn’t think straight.
    I am back at it again, though. I do want to take Module 1 when I have a bit more money in my savings account.
    Our dream is to buy a small plot of land and build a Tiny House and this will help us get there sooner.
    Thank you for doing this and sharing it!

  57. Thank you for those words! I live in Puerto Rico, we had elections for our governor the same day and people are equally shocked with our elected governor as with Mr. Trump in the states. But I have decided that none of those events (or anything else) will decide my future and my emotions. Thank you for your encouragement girl!

  58. Hi Caitlin,

    It is always great to have encouragement from others. I would like everyone to remember the quote from Buddha, “What you think, you become.” Everything is basically up to you.

  59. I seldom take the time or money to invest in ME. I have always dreamed of having a business, but due to life circumstances, was unable to pursue it. Now is my time. I Even with the health issues going on in my family, I am pursuing this new journey.

    I have also worked hard and lost over 100 pounds. I recently slipped back out of my health routines of Journaling my food and missing my work outs. Reading your blog post has inspired me to get back on track and take the time I need to take care of myself. After my workouts, I am clearer, more hopeful and have more energy.

    I can do this! We can do this!

  60. Loved your post. The motivation was very nice and timely. I am learning about my limiting beliefs. If you fail, do something new and see if it works. If it works, repeat for more success and if not do something new. I am completing a copywriting course. Have aspirations to start a blog and use the copywriting skills developing the blog.. Purchased your work at home survival guide using as a resource guide to piece together an income provider for myself. Thanks for the wonderful post. Much success for both of us in the upcoming years.

  61. Hello Caitlin,

    I found your post very inspiring and it is a post that you can take use for anything in your life. Honestly, the American people, who are rioting, really need to learn the very message that you said. It seems like a lot of people want to complain but don’t want to take charge of their own life. They are wanting handouts and don’t want to work towards what they are needing to work for.

    I think if everyone would take the time to read this post and at least keep it in mind that this country would be better off but it seems like everyone wants to blame someone else for their action and not take blame.

    I can not wait to start your course but I’m needing to wait for the funds in order to get started.

    Thank you for the inspirational words and the boost enough to finally decide to take the leap of faith.

    1. I think it’s very human to let disappointment overwhelm us — I know I’ve experienced that. But the truth is EVERYONE in EVERY circumstance can take choose to take control of their thinking and build their future. I look forward to having you in the course!

  62. We all have a larger degree of control over our own lives than we think sometimes. My husband and I have some changes going on in our business and we have decided to make those changes into an opportunity.

  63. Very timely post. I’m freaking out, too. This was like the biggest blindside on Survivor ever, but with much, much, MUCH more serious consequences. Thanks for the great post, Caitlin, and thanks to everyone for their comments on the post. It’s comforting to know I’m not alone in my feelings. And it was a wonderful reminder that my success is up to me. Take care, y’all.

  64. When you feel the need to write, and then you just DO IT, something awesome happens! Your post is a great example of that. I enjoyed your personal story and your suggestions for taking control. Really great words and easy-to-read format. Thanks for the inspiration!

    I’m working on sharing with other busy, distracted grandmas like me, ideas to “Cut the Crazy Out of Christmas.” I’m posting on a blog and Instagram page. It’s fun work that helps women plan and organize for the holidays ahead.

  65. Caitlin,

    What your post reminded me of is that I AM the president or head of my own company (well, my LLC,) and that I can do anything I set my mind to! 🙂

    I’ve been moving through your PA course since about January, with many distractions and additional obligations. However, I’m SO excited to finish it that I seriously wish (and may do it) I could hole up for a couple weeks and binge for 14+ hours straight until I’m done. I so enjoy the work that I get frustrated when I can’t get to it, or when I’m working in it and feel I make mistakes simply because I’m not absorbing as much as if I was more immersed. This realization led me to deciding I need to remove myself from distractions!

    My significant other actually recently lost his job, and has been idle for about six weeks, and working sporadically for the four months before that. He’s very work-oriented; it’s literally his identity. Which leads to extreme depression, the like of which I’ve never known existed. The real thing.

    The positive things that I’ve realized from my recent experiences is that I have a better understanding of depression and am better able to empathize.

    Most importantly, the person I’ve always been, the one that makes s#!$ happen, is the one I need to focus on. That I have strengths I didn’t realize were strengths; I thought everyone dealt with difficulties in the same way. Nope.

    My goal is to complete this course and have one new client before the end of December. My next goal is to travel to Italy the end of February and first part of March with my three adult children, my sister, and her daughter. My next goal is to be debt-free by the middle of 2017, both personally and my existing LLC. Finally, in the second half of 2017 I will buy or build a house; either on our existing property or a new property.

    My positive thing is KNOWING I can do these things, if I focus on the results and dedicate myself to the everyday tasks.

    Happy Day!

  66. Excellent and inspiring article! I’ve been out of work for close to six months now and it’s not easy at all to find a job these days. BUT, I never give up and know that when one door closes, another one always opens. Things may not happen as fast as we would like but they do happen. This article has inspired me to push myself harder and keep my head up. Thanks Caitlin!!!

  67. Great post Caitlin! Life is unpredictable, and I’ve learned that for the most part, just go with the flow! You asked for 1 good thing going on in our lives, I can give 3! My son in law got a great promotion and is now the store manager of the property that he has been working at! My daughter is pregnant! And my dad is being inducted into his high school’s hall of fame for his baseball career!

  68. Absolutely wonderful post. We all need to stop blaming others for the state of our lives. If we don’t like it, WE need to change it. Thank you for this message.

  69. Hi Caitlin,

    Thank you for this article. I feel it’s a must read right now.

    Currently, I am freelance transcriptionist. I looked into proofing as a way of expanding my skill set to improve my marketability. While right now might not be the time to make the financial commitment for me, you are certainly a valuable resource, and something to save for the future.

    Jen

  70. Hi! Have not forgotten about your course. I have been working on preparing for a holiday craft fair at my son’s school next month. I am a crocheter and this is the perfect opportunity for me to sell my items. Very busy and very excited! Want to get this done before starting the proofreading course. Thanks for all of your encouraging emails!

  71. Thank you, Caitlin! I’ve been in a funk since the election. Part of it that’s still hard to take is family and friends still bashing those who are upset and sharing that. Alos, too many posts where there is a lack of respect and consideration on both sides. I am avoiding spending time on FB until things calm down, hoping they do soon.

    A couple of bright spots for me- one being is the re-election of the current governor in my state. He is supportive of the state employees who work so hard for the public.
    The other is the PA course. I’ve had some delays in making progress, but I am certain I can make it through. Thanks again.

    1. A little less time on Facebook and a little more time focusing on accomplishing our goals is probably a good idea for everyone. 🙂

  72. I needed this too today, thanks.

    Proof reading is not going to be for me. I was working on web development but got disheartened by just how hard it seemed. Proof reading seemed easier, the money would come faster. I signed up to the course. But it’s not what I want to do – I want to make websites. I’m having a rough time learning and also balancing trying to slowly move my life to another country and keep hold of a wonderful relationship that is being eaten away by the stress of us both trying to build up online businesses. This morning was rough. I needed that motivation. Thanks.

  73. Thanks for your post. The main thing I am working on is my discipline to get the course done. I had set a schedule to get up an hour earlier each day to do the course (Jumpstart) and also spend an hour before bed on it. However, things seem to get in the way at times and I get discouraged that I can’t put as much time into it as I need to, especially to complete the course before my end date is set. I actually woke up last night and was having an anxiety attack that I wasn’t going to finish in time and get it all done, as there is so much reading to do, and also brushing up on my grammar, etc. Well, I have the weekend blocked out to just dive in and get lots done. With Thanksgiving coming up and guests arriving, I will be busy with preparations, but I will be digging in to get this course done which I am excited about. The changes my husband and I will be making in the future will be depending on me passing this course and getting my business going. Getting back to studying again after over 40 years is a challenge for me, but I know that with a vision, planning my work, working my plan, and with God’s help I can do it! Thanks for all the encouragement from you and everyone!!

    1. Especially at this time of year, it’s so easy to get distracted. Self-discipline is critical, but you’ve got this! Go work your plan!

  74. No specific thoughts on the election except to wish that Romney had run again but that’s another story. I’ve just recently accepted the challenge of training to be a “super-user” to help in the transition of our division to a new electronic medical records program. Am I nuts? Probably. After all, I’ve been working in this department for 30 years but the new challenges that pop periodically are what have kept me here.
    I’m really going to focus on this new assignment as well as getting the money together to take the initial phase of the proofreading course during the next year to start working on the next phase of my life…a side job to do when I retire. After all, my husband quilts and I need to keep busy too.

  75. Caitlin,
    Thank you for a fantastic post! You are an inspiration for me. It took me a lot longer to learn the things that you already have and I, like you, can always use a reminder!

    Thank you for everything you’ve done for all of us!
    Jan

  76. Caitlin, you nailed it with this blog post. If we sit and do nothing for ourselves, we will never see the changes we want or need to continue. Your course opened my eyes, to a whole new market I never knew existed. You have inspired me to join the proofreading market. Thank you, Baile

  77. ” YOU ARE NOT STUCK WITH WHAT YOU’VE GOT UNLESS YOU REFUSE TO TAKE STEPS TO CHANGE IT!”

    That’s going on the wall of inspiration in my office. Thanks for an awesome post Caitlin.

  78. This was great! And just what I needed to hear right now. After the travesty (also pronounced Donald Trump being elected President) the other night, I sad, scared and even a bit hopeless. “What are we gonna do now”, I kept asking myself. Well, there’s plenty we can do. There’s plenty I can do! This post was right on time and I, for one, appreciate it.
    Thanks.
    Alicia

  79. I have a story that I really want ghostwritten. Its about my 3 years on the website Ashley Madison. I learned so much! It was fascinating.

    1. This is amazing advice, priceless content. Am still Gathering financial momentum to buy the course.

  80. “A lot of people spent a lot of time agonizing and ranting over the presidential election and the difference the winner would make in our lives.

    Why depend on someone else to change our lives? Imagine if we spent that time — or even just an equal amount of time — investing in the skills we needed to change.”

    Amen and Amen! Focus on oneself instead of everything going on “out there”–if more people did that the world would likely be a much better place.

  81. Thanks! That is real advice and real encouragement. I like your philosophy and well it reminded me of something I already knew. Thats great teaching.
    Theres is a great quote from a book by Jonathon Livingston Seagull, Illusions, " learning is remembering what you already know. Doing is demonstrating to others that you know it. Teaching is reminding others they know it as well. We are all learners, doers, and teachers.
    Only negative is this is quite old as Donald got the same fate as Hilary and OMG could be more frightening. 😉

  82. Thank you Caitlin!
    I have invested in the course, but honestly I am afraid to start it. I'm afraid to fail, to make mistakes and to disappoint myself.
    But I find myself starting over again. I will start even if it means risking failure.
    Thank you for following your dream!

  83. Thank you, Caitlin. Yet another story that has lifted my spirit.

    Warmest regards,
    Arek

  84. Thank you, Caitlin. Great post and your story is inspiring so much. It really boosts my morale since I'm currently on the stage of my life similar to yours when they dismissed you (I nearly lost my job + there are some less than pleasant individuals which make my life difficult in my workplace). Therefore, I find your post highly uplifting and motivating. ????

    Warmest regards,
    Arek

  85. Thank you, Caitlin. Great post and your story is inspiring so much. It really boosts my morale since I'm currently on the stage of my life similar to yours when they dismissed you (I nearly lost my job + there are some less than pleasant individuals which make my life difficult in my workplace). Therefore, I find your post highly uplifting and motivating. ????

    Warmest regards,
    Arek

  86. I retired from nursing after 35 years of service. I consciously decided to learn something new to keep my brain active. I also discovered that I had not planned well financially for retirement. The search was on to find something a senior citizen could do to supplement her income, then Proofread Anywhere appeared. So here I am and loving it.
    I'm looking forward to becoming a Freelance Proofreader. Bless you, Caitlin Pyle.

  87. I signed up and have access to your program I believe. I just haven’t been able to start. What I purchased does not expire does it? When I am ready to begin will I be able to just go online and get into the program that I paid for? Right now my family is in a medical crisis and I am not able to begin but I do plan to do that as soon as possible. I hope someone actually reads this and lets me know what my options are regarding the program that I purchased. Thank you

    1. You have lifetime access to your course, there are no time limits in place. Please email [email protected] if you need your login information.

  88. Thank you! I decided to look to see what demand there is for proofreaders with a simple search, and there they were! Granted there will be many applicants for each position, but they are there.

    1. Hi Karen, our course teaches you about freelance proofreading. Starting a website and using social media to market yourself and build your business.

  89. How ironic, Caitlyn!! I was fired too! I had been a medical transcriptionist at a medical facility in New Orleans. Not to boast, but for the previous 28 years, I had a stellar reputation with a strong work ethic. My first reaction was total shock and humiliation (since the Security guard escorted me to my car). I then went to my bank to withdraw my money, at which time I actually felt suicidal, since I'd loved that job so much. It was at that point that I retired. A couple of years thereafter, I wrote and edited a memoir that I ultimately became quite pleased with. This new project resulted in my forgetting about the fact that I had previously been terminated, since I was feeling stronger. The only thing (temporarily) holding me back from proofreading is the fact that (NOW!!!), since I have recently been selling my book, I almost have enough to take advantage of your wonderful program!!! It's a given that I feel stronger and more self-confident than ever.

    1. Congratulations on your book, Kathryn! We love to hear stories like yours! Keep your eyes open for our next big sale! We’ll email you to let you know when!

  90. Okay, I have been thinking of doing this proofreading thing for a while, like over a year. I ignored your emails for a bit. Since I am financially struggling and believe I would be good at proofreading with a BS in Jouranalism, I opened this email and hit the button for more info. When I read the section about who didn't win the election and your praise of Bill Gates, I need to let you know that sent up a red flag for me. It was political and slanted. What was holding me back was the financial investment of your program. Now I feel you need to update this email as this had to be about 6 years ago when it was written. A lot has been discovered in the last 5 years about the corrupt Clintons and Gates being successful in depopulating the world.
    Signed, Bewildered

    1. So much has changed over the years, hasn’t it? Thank you for pointing this little article out because we are in the process of updating the older blog articles that still have useful information and removing some that are no longer relevant. I will get my content manager to take a look at this article and take care of the update. Thanks, again! 😉

  91. I have been out of work now for about two months. I want a remote position and reading your article makes me realize that anything is possible. I am in the process of changing my mindset. Thank you!

    1. That’s great, Paula! We’re so glad this could help you. Sometimes all it takes is a little nudge of encouragement to realize what you’re capable of. You’ve got this! 🙂

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