“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Prov 16:3)

This month, I celebrate my three-year anniversary as a full-time professional writer and editor. Each year of this journey, I’ve looked back on the lessons I’d learned the year before. In year three, I learned the following:

1. My health is a priority.

In 2019, I set several health goals. To reach them, I realized I needed to make some changes to my work environment. I purchased glasses with Neurolenses, which contain a contoured prism that brings my eyes into alignment. These glasses reduce the eye strain and the number of migraines I get from working on the computer all day. I sit up straighter because I’m not leaning in to see the screen, and this has reduced my neck and shoulder pain. I also added a laptop stand and a wireless keyboard to my office so that the laptop and keyboard are at the proper height.

2. Find a comfortable place to work.

When I first began working from home, I set up in my recliner in front of the TV. It wasn’t a comfortable position from which to type, so I converted an extra room into a dedicated office space. When I need to work, I go into the office.

Sometimes, I’ll visit a nearby Panera or coffee shop for a change of scenery. Getting out of the house for a few hours and into a different environment sparks my creativity.

3. Connect with others.

Working from home can be isolating. To combat the loneliness, I’ve taken steps to create and maintain a strong network of writers and Christian women to whom I can reach out when I need encouragement. We meet up to write, drink coffee, share the things happening in our lives, pray for each other, and build up each other.

4. Pray about everything.

In Philippians 4:6, Paul tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Every business has its slow times, which can cause anxiety. When this happens, I work to shift my perspective to praise and thanksgiving. Slow times can be a blessing because I can focus on parts of my business that I neglect during other times of the year. I create marketing plans, network, and write on my own projects. Each time things slow down, it’s scary, and I wonder if my time as an entrepreneur is over. So far, business has picked back up each time, and I dig back into the work.

With the lessons I’ve learned over the last three years, I can move forward into the future the Lord has planned for me. I’ll continue to do the writing and editing work he provides. Above all, I’ll give him the glory for the jobs that come my way, the abilities he’s given me, and the people who encourage me along the way.

Dear Jesus, thank you for allowing me to pursue my dream of writing and all the family and friends who continue to provide encouragement and support. Thank you for three successful years. I pray that I will always honor you with the business decisions I make. Amen.