Freelancing is an exciting journey, full of possibilities, freedom, and the thrill of being your own boss.
But let’s be real – starting out as a freelancer can also be overwhelming.
It’s like jumping into the deep end of a pool, and if you’re not careful, you might find yourself struggling to stay afloat.
Here are five common mistakes that new freelancers often make, and more importantly, how you can avoid them.
Trust me, steering clear of these pitfalls can make the difference between thriving and just surviving.
1. Launching Your Business Without Enough Savings
I get it – you’re eager to dive in, to start building your dream career. But freelancing isn’t all rainbows and sunshine.
The truth is, it can take time to find your footing and start earning consistently.
If you don’t have at least 3-6 months of living expenses saved up, you could find yourself in a tight spot pretty quickly.
How to Avoid It
Take the time to build a financial cushion before you launch. This isn’t just about money, it’s about peace of mind.
Knowing you have savings to fall back on allows you to focus on doing your best work, rather than stressing over paying bills.
The world is full of opportunities. Step outside your comfort zone and grab them.
2. Not Having a Written Contract
This might sound formal, but skipping a written contract is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute.
It’s risky and can lead to all sorts of complications.
A contract isn’t just a piece of paper – it’s your safety net, protecting your rights and ensuring you get paid for the work you do.
How to Avoid It
Always use a written contract, even if it feels awkward at first.
It sets clear expectations for both you and your client, and it can save you from a lot of headaches down the line.
Think of it as a foundation of trust and professionalism.
3. Choosing to Work with Anyone and Everyone
When you’re starting out, it’s tempting to say “yes” to every opportunity that comes your way.
But not all clients are created equal.
Some can be a dream to work with, while others might make you question why you ever started freelancing in the first place.
How to Avoid It
Be selective about who you work with. It’s okay to turn down projects that don’t feel like a good fit. Trust your gut, and remember that the wrong client can drain your time, energy, and passion.
Focus on building relationships with clients who value your work and respect your process.
4. Setting Your Prices Too High or Too Low
Pricing is one of the trickiest parts of freelancing.
Charge too much, and you might scare away potential clients. Charge too little, and you might end up feeling undervalued and overworked.
How to Avoid It
Do your research. Understand the market rates in your industry, and don’t be afraid to adjust your prices as you gain experience and confidence.
It’s a balancing act, but with time, you’ll find the sweet spot where your prices reflect the true value of your work.
5. Not Managing Your Time Well
Time is your most valuable asset as a freelancer, and if you’re not careful, it can slip through your fingers.
Poor time management can lead to stress, burnout, and missed deadlines – none of which are good for your business or your sanity.
How to Avoid It
Develop a time management system that works for you.
Whether it’s using a planner, setting strict work hours, or taking regular breaks, find a routine that helps you stay productive and balanced.
Remember, freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint.
I personally use below tools for many years now to manage most of my freelance business.
Clients and projects management: Notion
Finance: Wave Accounting
In Conclusion
Freelancing can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success. Keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself.
The journey might be tough, but it’s one worth taking.
Your future self is cheering you on. Keep pushing forward, one step at a time.
If you found this helpful, I’d love to hear your thoughts or connect on LinkedIn. We’re all in this together, and I’m here to support you on your freelancing journey.
