Hey there, fellow freelancers and aspiring solopreneurs! Remember that day you decided to take the plunge into the world of freelancing? The excitement, the dreams of freedom, and maybe a tiny bit of panic?
Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of what freelancing really looks like – and trust me, it’s one wild ride!
When I first started my freelance journey, I thought I had it all figured out. After years of good and tough experiences, I’ve learned some hard-earned lessons that I wish someone had shared with me right from the get-go.
So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s unpack the realities of a freelance career – the good, the challenging, and the downright surprising.
1. Clients come and go
Remember that feeling when you landed your first big client? It’s like being on top of the world! But here’s the kicker – projects end, and clients move on. It’s not personal; it’s just business.
I once had a client I thought would be with me forever. We had a great rapport, the work was flowing, and then… poof! They restructured, and suddenly, I was out. It stung, but it taught me a valuable lesson: relationships matter more than contracts.
Actionable Tip: Start building a diverse client base from day one. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Nurture relationships even when you’re not actively working together. A simple check-in email or sharing an interesting article can keep you on their radar.
2. Motivation isn’t a constant
There will be days when you wake up pumped to conquer the world, and others where Netflix seems like the only viable option. Welcome to the reality of being your own boss!
I’ve had my fair share of “I don’t wanna” days. The project deadlines don’t care about your motivation levels, though. That’s where discipline kicks in.
Actionable Tip: Create a routine and stick to it. Set specific work hours, even if you’re working from home. Use tools like the Pomodoro Technique to break your day into manageable chunks. Remember, motivation gets you started, but discipline keeps you going.
3. Pricing isn’t about hours
Oh, the pricing conundrum! When I started, I thought hourly rates were the way to go. Big mistake. I soon realized I was essentially punishing myself for getting faster and more efficient.
According to a study by the Freelancers Union, 63% of freelancers who set their rates based on value rather than hours reported an increase in their income.
Actionable Tip: Start thinking in terms of project value. How much impact will your work have on the client’s business? Price accordingly. Don’t be afraid to have value-based conversations with your clients.
4. Burnout is real
In the early days, I was a work machine. Weekends? What are those? I thought I was being productive, but I was actually heading straight for burnout city.
A survey by Fiverr found that 77% of freelancers have experienced burnout at some point in their careers. It’s not just you!
Actionable Tip: Schedule downtime like you schedule work. Use tools like RescueTime to track your work hours and ensure you’re not overdoing it. Remember, your creativity needs time to recharge.
5. You’re more than just a freelancer
This was a game-changer for me. The moment I started thinking of myself as a business owner rather than “just a freelancer,” everything shifted.
Actionable Tip: Set up proper business structures from day one. This includes creating a business plan, setting up separate bank accounts, and considering things like taxes and insurance. Act like the CEO you are!
6. Rejection happens often
I used to take every “NO” personally until I realized it’s just part of the game.
Fun fact: Even J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter was rejected 12 times before it was published. Imagine if she had given up!
Actionable Tip: Keep a “rejection journal.” Note down every rejection, but also what you learned from it. Over time, you’ll see patterns and opportunities for growth.
7. Networking isn’t optional
I used to think my work would speak for itself. While quality work is crucial, networking is what opens doors.
According to LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. The same principle applies to freelance gigs.
Actionable Tip: Set a goal to attend at least one networking event (virtual or in-person) each month. Follow up with new connections within 48 hours. Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just collecting business cards.
8. Tools change, skills evolve
Remember when we thought MySpace would be around forever? The freelance world moves fast, and staying relevant means staying curious.
Actionable Tip: Dedicate a few hours each week to learning new skills or exploring new tools. Platforms like Coursera or Udemy are great for this. Stay ahead of the curve, and you’ll stay in demand.
9. Boundaries are your superpower
When I started, I was available 24/7. Big mistake. I quickly learned that without boundaries, you’ll burn out fast.
Actionable Tip: Clearly communicate your working hours to clients. Use auto-responders outside of these hours. Remember, “No” is a complete sentence. Protect your energy – it’s your most valuable asset.
10. Embrace the twists and turns
Finally, remember that your freelance journey is uniquely yours. It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, but that road leads nowhere good.
I’ve had incredible highs and some pretty low lows. Each experience has shaped me into the freelancer – and person – I am today.
Actionable Tip: Keep a “win journal.” Note down your achievements, big and small. On tough days, revisit it to remind yourself how far you’ve come.
What’s next?
As we look ahead, the freelance landscape continues to evolve. With the rise of AI and automation, some worry about the future of freelance work. But I see it differently.
These tools will free us up to focus on what humans do best – creativity, strategy, and building meaningful connections.
The future of freelancing is bright for those who stay adaptable, continue learning, and focus on delivering value. It’s not just about the skills you have, but how you apply them to solve real problems for your clients.
Ready to level up your freelance game?
If you’re feeling inspired (or maybe a little overwhelmed) by these insights, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Navigating the freelance world can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your freelance career to the next level, let’s connect and make it happen. Drop me a message, and let’s schedule your free 30-minute strategy session.
Remember, every freelance superstar started exactly where you are now. The only difference? They took that next step. Will you?
