Making The Move To Fulltime Freelancing
This is a guest post by Steve Sears who has just become a fulltime freelance writer. I asked him to share his story with my readers to help you identify your own desires and dreams. Steve’s post will also show you how things can move in the right direction if only our mind walks the journey first.
Do the above words scare you? They may not, but making the move just might.
I should know. I just became a fulltime freelance writer.
Okay, don’t jump through hoops for me. Yes, I do love to write and, yes, get paid for it, but I have to clarify a misconception that many have about freelancing fulltime.
It’s a job, not a hobby. I’ll be paying my bills, own health insurance, college tuition, and supporting my family and two dachshunds by doing this. There is no longer a regular, bi-weekly check coming in the mail from my former company.
I’m working writer now, not just a hobbyist.
Okay, how did I get to where I am now? A few things transported me. I had been doing this for thirteen years as a part timer, when this past spring I learned that my three day a week job – primarily my weekend shift – was being outsourced to Pune, India. Eventually, I was told that I would either be moved \to the week, working four nights with (as far as I’m concerned) horrid hours, or work day shift, four or five days a week – no choice. Does any of this sound familiar?
In disgust, I contemplated if now was the time. Rumors were rampant that we might get laid off, so maybe waiting for a severance package would be wise. However, what if that day never came, and I was stuck at my “job” with no time to dedicate to my writing? It was a huge decision, and one I needed to make, so I decided to “change careers” (“quit my job” is poor terminology) and dive in.
You see, the way I see it, you can’t serve two masters.
I have experience writing for print publications, online sites, and I’ve done corporate projects. I have regular clients that come knocking when they need something, and I turn in work that they like – on time. The key thing is, I did this while I worked a fulltime job as well. I didn’t just up and quit and say “I’m a writer” until I was ready.
The above all being said, I think you have to have a certain mindset as well a positive mental attitude. You have to both believe and know, deep down in your mind and heart, that you can and want to do this.
Also, if you NEED to do it (as I do), you can’t and don’t give up. You make it work.
About the Author: I'm a passionate freelance writer and problogger. To further build my business I'm also in the process of building my own niche empire which pays me residual income.
Monika | Sep 11, 2009 | Reply
@ Steve: First of all, let me congratulate you for having the guts to follow your dreams. It is certainly not easy to turn your back on job employment to start (or continue) a home business.
Like you, I felt similar emotions back when I made the transition and to date I have not regretted my move at all. As a matter of fact, they are screaming out for my profession all over town (and Australia)but I would never in a million years consider going back to the old ways.
As far as I’m concerned, quitting my job to do freelancing full time was the best thing I could have ever done. I’m sure you will feel the same way Steve because you already ARE established in many ways.
I’m so happy for you my friend because I know how you felt with all those job changes at work and now you’ve taken your destiny in your own hands you have the powers to transform your life beyond your wildest dreams. Go get ‘em!
LuSabal | Sep 12, 2009 | Reply
This was a wonderful read and great encouragement to someone like myself that isn’t “quite ready” to make the leap into the great unknown.
Thank you both Monika and Steve for your insight and wisdom. It is appreciated by those of us who want the freedom you have but haven’t made it to the promised land of freelancing.
Monika | Sep 12, 2009 | Reply
@ LuSabal: One of the reasons I asked Steve to write about his transition from employee to self-employed freelance writer is to help people like you see it is doable. By gaining insight into our lives and see what it takes I believe others can get renewed inspiration to keep their dreams active.
I’m sure you can do the same and I wish for you to make your dreams come true one day too.
Your feedback is so valuable so thank you very much for taking the time to comment.
Ronda | Sep 13, 2009 | Reply
I am in the middle of my plan to break free from the cubicle–trying to save up a little more cash before I completely cut my ties to the corporate machine. This was a nice article and a needed bit of inspiration. The very idea of going full-time freelance simultaneously scares the hell out of me and excites me beyond belief. It’s always nice to read about others who have done it and makes me believe I can do it too.
Steve | Sep 16, 2009 | Reply
LuSabal:
Thanks for the kind comments.
Best wishes to you in your career!
Steve
Monika | Sep 16, 2009 | Reply
@ Ronda: I’m glad you got some inspiration out of Steve’s article. You CAN DO THIS! It is always scary in some ways to venture into new territory, but if the desire is big enough you will find ways to make it happen – despite the fear. As Susan Jeffers said years ago: “Feel the fear and do it anyway.”
Steve | Sep 17, 2009 | Reply
Ronda:
If I can do it, you can do it!
Yes, it is scary, but at the same time, I feel a control over my career and work life I’ve never had before.
All my best,
Steve
Cecily | Oct 4, 2009 | Reply
First of all. Congratulations and welcome to the world of freelance writing!!!
Unlike most of the freelance writers out there, I did not make a conscious decision to be one. I kind of fell into it by accident. I was fresh out of college and had just completed my first OJT experience. It was okay, but then I realized it really wasn’t for me. Too bad it took me a bachelor’s degree and a professional license to realize that, but I digress.
Soon after that, I discovered I could earn money from writing online. First it was academic writing – I didn’t really appeal to me. Then I found web content writing and I loved it.
That was 2 years ago and I am still earning and loving freelance writing. Now, if only my mother and my friends could realize that. They maybe they would stop bugging me about getting a ‘real job’.
I love full time freelance writing. I’m sure you will too.
Good luck with everything!
Monika | Oct 5, 2009 | Reply
@ Cecily: Hi there and welcome to my online home. I’m glad you liked Steven’s guest post. I’m like you myself, I also fell into freelance writing by chance and to date I haven’t regretted my new business. I love the fact that I can set my own hours, work a business I’m passionate about and all the while it just keeps growing and growing.