Ten Things I’ve Learned After Freelancing For One Year
I cannot even begin to tell you how many times I put a Bluehost plan in my cart just to chicken out and close the browser instead of clicking to confirm my purchase. I toyed with the idea of launching a freelance writing business for an exceptionally long period of time, but I had no confidence in my abilities to succeed in recouping the costs for the website, much less making a livable wage. Until finally, one year ago, something changed.
I don’t remember what triggered me to make the purchase exactly, but I remember sitting at my desk at work staring at the checkout screen on Bluehost until I closed my eyes and clicked confirm. It was over. The domain elizabethmjoneswrites.com was mine. Now all I had left to do was everything.
One month later, I quit my government job to freelance full-time. It’s been an interesting year, and not without its challenges, but I’ve never been more satisfied with my career path. The flexibility freelance writing offers lets me be there for my kids, prioritize my health more than I ever could before, and make money while doing what I loved and helping others find more time and grow their businesses.
This isn’t a guide to freelance writing. It’s simply a compilation of the 10 most important things I’ve learned since setting off on my freelance adventure.
1. There is no one right way to do things
Okay, sure, there are wrong ways to do things, but there’s not necessarily one singular right way to do things when it comes to freelance writing. So if you’re looking for a template to copy or a path to follow, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. You can try to mimic what others do, but eventually you’ll find elements of their journey that aren’t compatible with yours. Sooner or later (and sooner is always better, in this case), you’re going to have to branch out on your own and trust that the ground underneath you is sturdy enough to hold you up. You’re going to make mistakes (we all have and we all will again), but that’s a critical element of learning, so be brave and take those first steps out onto your own turf.
2. You’ve got to trust your gut
While making mistakes in general is unavoidable, there are some ways to avoid making unnecessary mistakes. Not listening to my gut has caused me a few heartaches that could have been avoided if I’d only taken heed of what my instincts said instead of what I’d rationalized. Slow down and give yourself time to feel about the situation before proceeding. Maybe you’re excited by the opportunity of a new prospect and want to get started right away, but you ignore red flags that indicate the two of you may not make an ideal match. Or maybe you’re not sure about an investment in your business — stop and feel. Does it feel like something that will add value to your organization? Are you feeling excited, nervous, apprehensive, or enthusiastic? Are these feelings clouding your judgment? Try to get into a clear headspace and really contemplate big decisions before making them, with your head and your gut.
3. Make friends with fellow freelancers
To some people, a world without coworkers is an ideal place. Until you get there. The very nature of freelancing is solitary, which can be isolating and demoralizing to some people. Seek out other freelancers in whatever way works best for you. With the current state of global health, it’s probably better to stick to digital communications right now instead of looking for coworking spaces to find like-minded folk to commiserate with.
I’ve had [the best luck with Twitter] when it comes to finding freelance friends. I’ve networked, taken classes and met fellow students, and participated in Twitter chats (Hello, #FreelanceChat pals [Thursdays at 12pm EST]) to grow my connections and my relationships with other freelancers. Some are in the same niche as I am, and others are in completely different fields, but we’re united under the umbrella of freelance life. Making friends with fellow freelancers has significantly improved my freelance experience.
4. Find a mentor — and fast
Another thing that completely revolutionized freelancing for me was hiring a coach. I understand that it’s not something everyone can afford immediately (I saved for my sessions with my coach), but I consider it one of the best investments I’ve made in my business to date. If you can’t hire a coach, or you’re looking for additional guidance, look for a mentor. The earlier you do this in the process, the better it will be for you because you’ll be able to benefit from their perspective and experience. Even if you can’t find someone to mentor you directly, look to others in your niche and learn what you can about their pathway to success. Yes, there’s no one right way to do things, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t best practices. And when you’re ready, consider giving back and mentoring new freelancers in your niche as you come across them. There’s plenty of room for everyone.
5. No one is going to do it for you
Because there’s plenty of room for everyone, there’s also a lot of noise out there, making it difficult to elevate your brand above it all. It’s hard work to stay noticed and keep marketing your business. Then there’s the added pressure of client projects, so you can keep the lights on, and keeping up with your industry so you can work toward establishing yourself as an expert in the areas you work in. It’s not easy. I’m not sure if people believe that it is when they come in. I didn’t, and I got what I expected. Freelance writing takes serious time and dedication if you want to see real results.
6. Remember your privilege
I realize that not everyone comes to freelancing by their own design, but even still, when you get frustrated and are tired of being where you are, think about how many other people would love to work for themselves. Think about the privilege that helped you get where you are and be thankful for your position in life. The more gratitude you cultivate for the circumstances that allow you to be where you are, the more appreciation you’ll have for the hidden struggles of others, the more compassionate you’ll be, and the more grateful you’ll be for your freelance writing business.
7. Your workspace should be your sanctuary
Whether you’re a Type A or Type B personality, it’s so much easier to sit down and get to work in a clean and tidy environment, especially one that’s been meticulously designed and curated to your style preferences. Whether you like modern minimalism or country chic, let your workspace represent something about you and your brand so it can give you a sense of comfort when you sit down to work. Hang artwork that brings you joy, take time to regularly clean and organize your workspace, and adjust your lighting to your preferences. Taking your workspace seriously shows you and everyone else that you take your work seriously.
8. Practice self care
This may seem loosely related, but the more I take the time to exercise, eat better, and sleep regularly, the better my outcomes are overall. [Practicing self care] isn’t an indulgence; it’s a necessity for balance, which is critical for freelancers in a world where it’s so easy to upset the work/life balance toward work. Drink plenty of water, get exercise and sunshine (with protection), and laugh often. As the adage goes: Be gentle with yourself, you’re doing the best you can.
9. Read and write daily
It’s no secret that reading often will strengthen your writing skills. But reading on its own won’t make you a better writer — the best exercise for becoming a better writer is to write, put simply. I write for my clients, but I also make time to write personal essays and keep up with creative writing projects to keep my mind exercised. Read a wide variety of books in a range of genres. You never know when inspiration will strike.
10. Keep a work journal
Keeping a work journal helps you see your professional growth and better recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Whether it’s a simple to-do list kept on a notepad at your desk or an elaborate Notion setup, keeping a work journal and tracking goals and outcomes will make you a better freelancer overall. I keep a work bullet journal, which houses meeting notes, to-dos, and my thoughts and ideas for the quarter, which is about how long a bullet journal lasts me. Just remember that the format that’s best is the one you’re most consistent with.
Happy birthday, Elizabeth M. Jones Writes!🎈
It’s a pretty damn brave thing to jump into freelancing. I’m proud of myself for getting this far, and I’m proud of you for where you are in your journey. How long have you been freelancing? What’s the most important thing you’ve learned so far?
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