The biggest fear holding copywriters back from going clientless isn’t ability—it’s cash flow. “How can I risk my steady client income to build products that might not sell?” This all-or-nothing thinking keeps talented writers stuck in the traditional model far longer than necessary.
The smart approach is a gradual transition—what I call the “80/20 Shift”:
First, reduce client work to 80% of your time while dedicating 20% to building your first product. This could be a small but valuable offering like a $97 template pack or mini-course. Use your existing client work to fund and inform this development—you’re already solving problems for clients; now package those solutions for a wider audience.
As your product begins generating income (even just a few hundred dollars a month), adjust the ratio to 60/40. Then 40/60. Eventually, you’ll reach the tipping point where your products generate enough to replace—and surpass—your client income. Learn more at Clientless Copy
This method eliminates the feast-or-famine risk while giving you a clear path to freedom. The key is starting small with a “minimum viable product” rather than trying to create the perfect comprehensive course right away. Your first offering doesn’t need to be revolutionary—it just needs to provide real value to a specific audience.
Remember: Every client project you complete is market research for your future products. Every skill you hone makes your offerings more valuable. The transition isn’t a leap—it’s a strategic pivot using the assets you already have.
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