I recently re-watched Breaking Bad.
In case you don’t know, this show charts the rise and fall of meth baron Walter White.
It’s said to be one of the best shows ever created and I’m inclined to agree.
Believe it or not it can also teach you a great deal about the copywriting business.
For example:
1. Be the absolute best at what you do
The secret behind Walters success is simple: throughout the show he works to be the best and refuses to sell an “inferior product.”
2. Raise prices and ask for more money
Walter always wants more and it’s never enough. He pushes his buyers to make bigger orders and always asks for more money.
3. Work for yourself
Walter refuses to be under the thumb of anyone else. This is critical if you’re going to make big bucks as a copywriter. Don’t waste your time working for other people. Starting your own business is the way to go if you’re going to reach the top.
4. Defend your territory
One of the best scenes in this show is where Walter confronts a pair of rival meth cooks. The point is that success relies on ruthlessly defending yourself against the competition.
5. Avoid hubris
The reason why Walter eventually gets caught is mostly due to his ego. After getting to the top he develops massive hubris and this leads to his downfall. You need do avoid this. Always assume you’re the underdog and have more to learn. Search for weaknesses in yourself and finds ways to improve.
(BTW, if you haven’t watched this show do yourself a favor…it really is excellent).
Bye for now.
Alastair Walton
P.S. One more point: realize that you’re never too old. At the start of the show Walter is a burnt out 50 year old with a cancer diagnosis. Despite this he manages to go toe to toe with the big dogs. If he can do it so can you…