Taking the Plunge: The First Days of Freelancing
Settling into the new home office
So, this is it. I've finally followed through with my ambition to become a full-time freelance designer. The security and routine of permanent employment are a thing of the past.
Now attention turns to building a future. My mind is racing with new ideas, exciting plans, and a healthy dollop of self-doubt.
Following the advice of a good friend who runs a successful small business I've decided to chart my journey as I navigate the murky waters of registering a company, finding clients and bidding for projects. All set against the backdrop of a global pandemic and unprecedented economic turmoil.
Anyone who'd like to know a bit about my background can check out my website (complete with a cheesy photo of me gazing out over the fjords).
Otherwise, here goes: Blog post no.1...
It's a marathon, not a sprint
A peaceful sunset view from my desk chair; As a natural night owl, I've found myself working late into the evenings
The main challenge I've found over my first week is prioritising.
I went from a fixed job with clear goals and expectations to lying awake at night with a to-do list longer than the voting segment of a Eurovision final.
What I found is this; when I took the pressure off myself, my productivity went through the roof.
I spent a relaxed morning jotting down ideas, tasks, and plans. I stopped, went for a walk, and came back to my desk in the afternoon to condense this into a manageable list.
Then each day I picked 5-6 items and worked through them. No deadlines, no stress. Just the knowledge that every ounce of effort was going towards something I truly wanted to achieve.
And here I am one week later, with a new company, a website, a 'rising talent' profile on Upwork, an expanding network and a box-fresh CV (enquire within).
Livin' la vida lockdown
Of course, the timing of this shift to a freelance lifestyle could have been better. COVID-19 has sent economies reeling and unemployment rates skyrocketing.
Call it reckless, call it brave; I've decided to push ahead and give it a shot anyway.
My reasoning? For every oportunity the lockdown takes away, another might be created in its place. Companies everywhere are seeing the potential of remote workforces, and whilst hiring is frozen, the show must go on. Maybe a flexible, adaptable resource will be just what people need.
Still, the low-level panic comes in waves. When my head is swimming I turn to video chats. Reaching out to friends and family for advice has proven to be the driving force in my motivation. Thanks team.
So for now I'm feeling positive. Really positive. I know there will be highs and lows. I know there will be setbacks. I know there will be a steep learning curve...but I also know, with perseverance, that I can make this work.
Honestly, I can't wait to get stuck in.
Do you have any words of wisdom for a fresh-faced freelancer?
Or...(my new mantra)...'Are there any projects or opportunities you'd like to discuss?'
Either way, let's connect. We're definitely stronger together.