Ashley Chow

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21 Jul 2018
All the Feelings

Why I’m ditching the life plan

I hate uncertainty.

I hate it so much that I Wikipedia the ending of TV shows halfway through to find out who is going to die. I don’t like not knowing the fate of the characters before I invest in their life. Honestly, I just don’t see the point if they’re just going to get killed off in the end (RIP Derek Shepherd).

Unfortunately, I can’t do the same thing for the plot of my life. There isn’t a Wiki Page that will tell me what job I’ll get, who I’ll marry or if I ever win the lottery.

So I chose the most predictable path and did everything right. I finished High School, picked a versatile degree, and got myself into Law school. Next up is to get a grad job, marry a hunk, and achieve world domination by the time I’m 25. Not a bad plan hey?

But turns out, plot twists do exist in real life. Depression sneaks up on you. The people you thought would be by your side forever, leave. You spend sleepless night staring at the ceiling wondering if this is all there is. Suddenly the career you’ve spent a decade working towards no longer drives you. So you decide maybe you want to explore something new.

Turns out, there is this whole other creative side of myself that I’d spent a lifetime neglecting. An idea knocked on my door and asked me to embark on an adventure to bring it to life. I could either close the door in its face, pretend we’d never met, and continue on my predictable, safe plan. Or, I could rip up the map I had for my life and follow the idea onto a new path.

My fear of uncertainty taunted me with visions of failure and told me to stay insignificant. I nearly gave in. I think we expect the massive turning points in our life to come with a flashing sign saying: ‘This is It- Everything changes after this!’ I’ve learnt it’s the small choices you make in the face of anxiety that shape the rest of your life.

People would have been understanding if I didn’t follow through. They would have pat me on the back and told me my current trajectory was good enough. The thing is, no one will ever care as much about your calling as you do. Other people won’t have to live with the consequences if you smother your dream out of fear. You’ll be the one with the broken heart if you never even try.

                                                                         ****

I spent my Winter break investing in writing courses and digital marketing workshops that were full of people double my age and experience. I sat in rooms full of movers and shakers who already owned their own creative enterprises, while I only owned pink stationary and half a degree. The first time I had to introduce myself, I mustered up my confidence to explain that I was a law student who loved stories and just wanted to do something different.

One guy gave me a pity smile.

I felt completely out of my depth but I loved rubbing shoulders with the people who were going to create the next big thing. Our teacher worked in one of the top marketing companies and was a wild spirit who used words like ‘shit,’ and ‘f*%k yea’ as she taught us how to be masters in copywriting. She wore a black sweatshirt with the words ‘NINETEEN’ emblazoned on the sleeves in white, and had a chain with her name in plastic letters dangling around her neck. She was confident in all her kookiness, was clearly an expert in her craft, and I was drawn to her eccentricity.

I approached her at the end to ask her advice on what a 20 something-year-old who wanted to break into the creative industry should do.

“No one is going to take a chance on someone with no experience,’ I declared to her.

“That’s not true,” she scoffed, “I had drawn a picture of a bong on my website, right, and my now-boss approached me and was like ‘Whoa that’s so cool, do you want to work for me?’ And I was like Sick yea! So that’s how I got my job.”

She paused to adjust her clear-framed, hipster glasses. “If you want writing to be your thing, you need to start showcasing your work. Start writing and put it up somewhere.”

“But who would read it?”

She scoffed again. “Forget the numbers. I moved to another country, right, and started making the most random YouTube videos and my first one only had like 4 views or something. Now- it’s completely blown up! Just go. Make the website. Set up your brand. Go home and do it right now.”

                                                                        ****

In line with my endless self-doubt, it’s taken me weeks-no, months- to implement her advice. But now here we are. This is it. Welcome.

I’m slowly getting better with uncertainty. I don’t reach out to Wikipedia as much at the start of a Netflix series, and I try to enjoy the highs and lows with the characters- even if they do end up dying in random car crashes.

Because honestly, the best moments of my life have been the unplanned ones. The people who have rocked up unannounced have turned out to be the greatest friends. The times when I have chosen to turn off my GPS and just drive, have led me to the most exciting destinations.

Don’t get me wrong, if you have a carefully curated life plan that is working completely for you, then you’re kinda my hero. But for now, I think I’m going to try letting spontaneity take the wheel and see where it takes me.

Oh, and by the way, I’m still fully set on achieving world domination.

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Hi, I’m Ash

Hi, I’m Ash

I put words to emotions, tell stories for brands, and spend more time in my feelings than Drake does. I also send love letters every Wednesday because let's be honest - nothing exciting ever happens on a Wednesday,

Is it Me You’re Looking For?

My Life in Squares

The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
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The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
2 weeks ago
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While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
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•
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While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
1 month ago
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Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
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Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
1 month ago
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Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
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Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
2 months ago
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    August 7, 2023

Ash In The Wild

The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
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The truth about impact 💥 My first step to writing for the internet (and eventually starting this business) was starting my blog in 2018. It felt very "ew cringe" at the time. But every week, I'd write personal essays about alll the feelings and wanting to be a Creative. The whole time, it felt like I was writing into a void with no one reading and no one taking me seriously. (And some weeks, I'd even let the self-doubt and lack of "views" stop me from publishing anything.) But I continued writing and building my body of work. Eventually, my first blog post landed me my first client... And sparked a chain of events that led to me starting my copywriting business full-time in 2020. Sharing this because when we first start creating or pivoting into something new... And it feels like we're gaining no views. No comments. No validation. And even losing parts of an existing audience... It's tempting to believe that what we're creating doesn't matter and we should give up. But earlier this year, I got an email from someone who stumbled on an old blog post then binge-read the rest. (Swipe to see*). The posts that I believed were reaching "no one" were actually finding their way to the screens of the people who needed to read them the most. If I'd let the self-doubt (and imaginary nay-sayers) stop me, I wouldn't have the business I have today. More importantly, my words would never have found their way to the people it was supposed to. I've said it before and I'll say it again (mostly to remind myself): 1) Your creations have impact - even if you can't always see it. 2) If you want to be a creative for the long-haul, you have to create. Even when the numbers fluctuate. Even when it feels like you're speaking into a void. Even when all the mud you're throwing at the wall just isn't sticking. Because you never know who will end up reading and passing your creations on to the next person who needs them. *shared with consent #freelancewriter #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #freelancingfemales #coursecreator #creativehobby #smallbusinessowner #entreprenuership #creatives #writersofig #onwriting #contentcreator
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
1/5
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
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While it looks like I've got my snorkelling sh*t together -- not pictured is the literal sink-or-swim situation I found myself in 10 mins beforehand. On our first snorkelling stop - I found myself battered by the choppy waves, choking on mouthfuls of salt water, and forcing my cramping arms to paddle like my life depended on it (because it did). And I was ready to retreat to the safety of our hotel’s paddle pool.  But afterward, we went to a more serene snorkelling spot where the fish practically pose for selfies with you. There, I could rest. I had time to appreciate the coral and remember why I loved snorkelling so much. And I could even practice my duck dives! This wild snorkelling adventure got me thinking about what it's really like to be a business owner. I've spent the majority of my self-employed era diving into more sink-or-swim situations than I can count. From my first project, to my first launch, all the way to trying to find the right contractors to hire — I've had to dive head-first outta my comfort zone and into the deep-end, and then paddle vigorously to stay afloat. And I bet you have, too. Most of the time, it can feel like the tide is working against us. And when there’s no immediate lifeboat in sight, it can be tempting to throw up our arms and give up. But while getting out of our comfort zones is crucial for becoming a better business owner (after all, smooth seas don’t make skilled sailors) — I’m realising it’s ok to slink back to calmer waters every so often. To rest. To find the joy and remember what we love about business and why we got into it in the first place. So if you’ve been battling rough seas where it feels like the tide is always against you — don’t abandon ship just yet. Take it as a sign to drop anchor for a while, float on serene waters, an and rediscover why you started in the first place. Remember, every ebb has its flow. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #bali #snorkelling #onlinebusinessowner #businessadvice #freelancingadvice
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
itsashchow
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Celebrating 6 months of married life with my partner in crime ❤ When people ask me what married life is like, I say: "It feels both utterly surreal and completely normal all at the same time." Surreal because I'm amazed at all the events that led us here. And normal because it feels like Ben has always been by my side. The past 6 months have been filled with new discoveries about each other's quirks. Escaping on many holidays. Binge watching tv shows in one night. Arguments over dishes, laundry, and who hogs the blanket the most. (PS. Our solution is to have 2 blankets). And while it's only a teeny, tiny toe dip into the pond of married life -- I can't wait to experience more surreal and normal moments life throws at us.
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
3/5
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
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Bliss in Bali 🐠🌴 Spent a surreal week chasing waterfalls, visiting countless infinity pools, and making every hour happy hour.
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
4/5
When I first started my business, I used to be so scared of selling. Which is kinda ironic because as a launch copywriter who's really good at helping others sell their courses, you'd think I'd be good at this too. But for a long time, I would curl up into a ball and hide. I didn't want to be annoying or alienate my audience. So I'd try to do it as subtly as possible and hoping that *one* caption would somehow convince someone to buy from me. But because I wasn't marketing or selling... I wasn't getting as many clients… Which meant I didn't get the revenue I wanted… Which meant I spent more time worrying about how to make money instead of focusing on what I *really* wanted to do - which was to make an impact. But then I heard this mindset shift that really helped me: Selling, when done ethically, isn’t bad. Selling is just a conversation between you and your prospect. It's all about empathising with the challenges they're facing and laying out the reasons why your course or product will help them. Because think about it: If you knew you had an amazing product that you *know* is going to transform someone's life for the better - why would you hoard it and keep it all to yourself? So if you've been scared to sell your courses or services, remember that selling isn't bad. It's about having empathy-driven conversations and getting your solution in front of more of the right people so you can change their life for the better. And if you've been wondering how to translate those conversations^ into your launch assets and sell in a way that doesn't give you the ick... My launch packages are all about pinpointing exactly what your audience needs to hear, identifying the best stories you should share, and creating empathy-driven sales assets that make your audience understand why you're worth buying from. Now booking for August. Link in bio. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #creativepreneur #evergreenlaunch #livelaunch #launchemails #businesschicks #salespage #launchcopywriter #womanownedbusiness #freelancingfemales
itsashchow
itsashchow
•
Follow
When I first started my business, I used to be so scared of selling. Which is kinda ironic because as a launch copywriter who's really good at helping others sell their courses, you'd think I'd be good at this too. But for a long time, I would curl up into a ball and hide. I didn't want to be annoying or alienate my audience. So I'd try to do it as subtly as possible and hoping that *one* caption would somehow convince someone to buy from me. But because I wasn't marketing or selling... I wasn't getting as many clients… Which meant I didn't get the revenue I wanted… Which meant I spent more time worrying about how to make money instead of focusing on what I *really* wanted to do - which was to make an impact. But then I heard this mindset shift that really helped me: Selling, when done ethically, isn’t bad. Selling is just a conversation between you and your prospect. It's all about empathising with the challenges they're facing and laying out the reasons why your course or product will help them. Because think about it: If you knew you had an amazing product that you *know* is going to transform someone's life for the better - why would you hoard it and keep it all to yourself? So if you've been scared to sell your courses or services, remember that selling isn't bad. It's about having empathy-driven conversations and getting your solution in front of more of the right people so you can change their life for the better. And if you've been wondering how to translate those conversations^ into your launch assets and sell in a way that doesn't give you the ick... My launch packages are all about pinpointing exactly what your audience needs to hear, identifying the best stories you should share, and creating empathy-driven sales assets that make your audience understand why you're worth buying from. Now booking for August. Link in bio. . . . . . . #freelancewriter #creativecopywriter #launchcopy #digitalproductlaunch #coursecreators #creativeentrepreneur #launchcopywriter #creativepreneur #evergreenlaunch #livelaunch #launchemails #businesschicks #salespage #launchcopywriter #womanownedbusiness #freelancingfemales
3 months ago
View on Instagram |
5/5
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