What if a job gave you freedom of choice, a healthy work-life balance, and enough time to pursue interests outside of work? Sounds like a dream job. Or not?
Have you ever considered "freelancing" as a career option?
The freelance world is a wonderful place. Let us guide you through it. As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to choose your time, place, type of work, and employer. You are free from all the constraints of a strict corporate life. Your productive hours are no longer monitored. And more importantly, no one will deduct money from your income just because you missed a day or two of work. It was a luxury to imagine such a situation a few years ago, but after the pandemic, the world of work has changed 360 degrees. Whether working remotely or freelancing, everything has become the norm. According to the company's data, the global freelance market is expected to grow 15.3% annually from 2021 to 2026.
According to global industry reports, the total size of the freelance market is $1.5 trillion and continues to grow. This is important. Isn't that, right? If you are wondering if freelancing can be a full-time career option, here is a simple guide to help you make a plan to make freelancing your career option.
Choose your clients and costs:
Freelancing as a career path can be pursued by anyone, regardless of your field of expertise. You take on the substantial responsibility of running your own business and it is up to you to decide which new clients you will work with and what your hourly rate will be. So, when choosing a client, look for a combination of excellent work, working style, work-life balance and salary. Generally, startups sign contracts when they offer ample learning opportunities. Established companies offer work-life balance, while startups offer good salaries. Setting a price list can be a difficult task. However, remember that you change your customers for the value that you and your work provide to the company. This will vary from industry to industry and will depend on the complexity of your work. Freelancers often calculate the time it takes to complete a task.
Set your own working hours:
You often force yourself to go to work even though you would rather be in a warm bed with a steaming cup of coffee. Freelancing can make your dream come true. As a freelancer, you can do this and no one will ever ask you about it, as long as the work you agreed to do for your client is completed by the agreed deadline. The main advantage of freelancing is the autonomy to set your work schedule. So, choose the most convenient working hours and ensure your work is delivered on time. Don't forget to take breaks from time to time to give your busy brain a well-deserved rest.
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Design your workplace:
Needless to say, freelancers are not limited to working within the confines of an office. They can work from the comfort of their home or a local coffee shop. You also get the added benefit of cutting down on your commute time. Plus, you can work in your pajamas at any time of the day. Plus, no one will question your preferences, so that's a plus. You're free to choose the workspace that works best for you, but it's better to have a fixed place to work. Want a reason? Believe it or not, this will help you stay focused and serious about your work.
Sharpen your talents:
As a freelancer, you can set your own working hours, which allows you to invest time in expanding your skills and developing your career. You can take online certification courses in your field that will help you stay on top of the market. Also, try your hand at freelance work that will help you hone your newly acquired skills. But make sure your rates are set accordingly and let your clients know that you are still in the learning phase. And this benefit is not limited to developing your talents. As a freelancer, you should also invest time in pursuing your interests.
Break out of the monotonous routine:
If you've ever worked in a typical office job, you know that it can get monotonous. Many of us get bored doing the same thing five days a week. Freelancing gives you a break from the monotony of daily life. Since you're not tied to one organization, you can work in any field that suits your skills. For example, you can be a copywriter, a dancer, or a painter and earn equally in each field. So, make the most of freelancing as a career option.
Manage multiple revenue streams:
So, when we talk about having multiple clients or working in different fields, it also means that there can be multiple income streams. Freelancing as a career option not only ensures you a steady source of income but also gives you job security as you get the opportunity to get multiple clients and offers. However, to do this, you need to set strict guidelines for your customers regarding payment and billing methods. Keep track of all your invoices in a well-documented sheet and make sure to provide all the terms and conditions in your price list before accepting any work.
Promote your work:
You may be very good at what you do, but what's the point if people can't find you digitally? It goes without saying that in the world of social media, it's essential to stand out. And this doesn't just apply to you; your work needs to be recognized too. So don't be afraid to promote yourself and your work online. Doing so will build credibility and earn you the trust of your customers.
To sum up, we can say:
Freelancing as a career option can be a blessing for those looking for work-life balance. It offers you the opportunity to build your own business and be your own boss. Plan your day so that you spend time at work but also have time to work on your personal goals. This means that even though you work full-time, you need to have time to go to the gym or sit down with your kids and do their homework. So, what are you waiting for? Design a good career plan and immerse yourself in the world of freelancing, this can be a game changer for you.
