The freelance reality check

Think back to that moment you first decided to start freelancing. Maybe it was a side hustle. Maybe you went all in. Either way, it was probably because you wanted more freedom and control over when and where you worked, what you were paid, and the type of work you could do.

But sometimes that freedom doesn’t translate into flexibility or work-life balance. Instead of reporting to one boss, you’re beholden to a dozen or more clients who all think they are the most important person in your life.

You’re working around the clock to meet deadlines, sometimes on work you find unfulfilling, because you’re never quite sure where the next project will land. You’re lonely. You can’t take a proper vacation, because you need to be on call just in case that job comes through. And that recent summer-long dry spell eroded all your savings. 

Knowledge work is notoriously stop-start. It’s everything-is-at-stake-urgent, and then it’s suddenly on hold until after Christmas. And all that uncertainty, isolation and financial pressure can create major stress.

It can be hard to find the right balance when you’re on your own. However, a good growth strategy can help you take control, and smooth out cash flow and capacity.

A good growth strategy can help you do more and be more. It can:

·       Increase your income

·       Give you back time for other priorities

·       Help you create better work

·       Expand the types of clients you can work with

·       Give those clients more confidence and stability

·       Stretch your skills so you grow professionally.

But any growth strategy comes with risks. It takes time, money and energy.

You’ll learn practical, proven ways to avoid growth common mis-steps in Beyond Solo.

Join the waitlist now, and I’ll share some tips, tools and templates ahead of publication.