Sometimes there are things in your work that simply have to be done. They’re part of it. You do them because you’re a professional — but they don’t exactly spark joy. For me, there are two of those things: bookkeeping… and writing proposals.
Don’t get me wrong — I’m genuinely happy when a client reaches out with a new project. When I can think along, adapt, and draw inspiration from their wishes. That gives me energy. Ideas start flowing automatically. But then… comes the moment where I have to put everything on paper.
- What exactly is needed?
- What’s realistic in terms of time and budget?
- What does the client actually expect?
- What should I include — and what not — in the proposal?
I want to be clear. Not too complicated, not too vague. No small print. But also no chaos. It’s a balancing act. Too much detail can be overwhelming. Too little can lead to questions and confusion later on.
And then there’s that little voice: “Did I estimate this right? Am I charging too much? Or will I end up doing too much for too little?”
Even after 25 years, it’s still a puzzle. Writing proposals is a necessary part of the job for me. Just like sorting through receipts at the end of the month — it comes with running your own business.
But you know… maybe that’s just fine. Not every part of your work needs to be your favourite. As long as you do the core — your creativity, your collaboration with the client, building something beautiful — with heart and soul.
And I keep learning, little by little.
About my value. About clear communication. And about the trust clients place in knowing exactly where they stand.