How can you create a successful business plan as a self-employed professional?

I would say, make an effort to live the life or immerse yourself into the situation of the target customer for whom you are solving the problem. As simple as this sounds, many founders assume on behalf of the target customers without a clue as to what they really would find useful. Once you understand the reality of the target audience, you can begin to type out your business plan

Think like a Chief Storytelling Officer. Large pitch decks are rarely looked at it and the most funded pitch decks tell at story with Act I, II and III. I'd recommend using templates from famous storytellers like Elon Musk. The story is concise, compelling and contagious. You just can't forget about it after it's over.

You want to "ring the bell", at the beginning, of what you are trying to convey. Treat your audience, as though they have zero patience. Have them engaged, from the beginning to the end. Keep your story compelling, build it as you go and bring them in for the close .

A great value, is having a market that will be receptive to your product or service. Don't waste time trying to create a market.

Developing a marketing plan is most pertinent in successful businesses as this stage precedes reaching sales targets or sales goals. Marketing plan is often misunderstood for sales plan whereas it is far more deep and wider concept. A successful marketing plan gives a clear cut marketing objective and ways and means for execution of a plan as well. Marketing plan is prepared considering the target audience, demographics, competition, etc. Moreover, it should be compiled considering the strategy to go online, offline, multiple or single products, local market or international market, etc

As a self-employed individual, developing a marketing plan means thinking outside the box, embracing unconventional strategies that not only highlight your unique strengths but also connect with your audience in a more authentic and innovative way.

Create something, which sets you apart, from what everyone else is doing. Make it "stand out". If you don't make yourself stand out, you will have an up hill battle.

I believe this is the basis for what will be needed. However, sometimes less is better, at the beginning, leaving you room/time to make adjustments, to your benefit, after seeing what your market is looking for. Diversification and flexibility is key.

Test your assumptions. In this case you have the benefit of agility and total control. Beta test everything and find what works.

To craft a successful business plan as a self-employed professional, outline your services, target market, and competitive advantage. Define financial goals, marketing strategies, and operational plans. Regularly review and adapt the plan to align with evolving business needs and market dynamics.

Be on point. In a few sentences, always be able to articulate, in writing and verbally what you do. If you don't capture attention within a few seconds or minutes, you are at at loss.