Why You're Feeling Burned Out in Freelancing and How to Fix It
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Understanding Freelance Fatigue
I embarked on my freelancing journey during one of the toughest phases of my life. With no experience, connections, or funds, and battling severe mental health issues, I was essentially at my lowest.
In a desperate attempt to escape a grueling job, I committed fully to freelancing. I worked tirelessly, seven days a week, and soon I was able to cover my living expenses. Fast forward six years, and I’m still freelancing—most days, I genuinely enjoy it.
Let me share a story about a friend of mine…
His freelancing career spans over two decades, but recently, he’s seen a dip in his earnings. In his prime, his agent would line up projects for him, and he’d comfortably make around 100K annually. This was the reality for many freelancers before 2010; the work was plentiful, contracts were lengthy, and compensation was generous.
However, the landscape has drastically shifted, and my friend is feeling the impact.
With more freelancers added to his agent’s roster, he receives fewer projects. The rise of the internet meant he lacked a personal website to showcase his skills. Social media emerged, and he missed that boat too. Freelancing platforms flooded the market, increasing competition.
In essence, my friend, who honed his graphic design skills to a world-class level over 20 years, never acquired the necessary business acumen. He remained a freelancer with an employee’s mindset—a problematic situation.
Today, possessing skills alone isn’t enough; you must cultivate an online presence and market yourself effectively. Whether you embrace it or not, hustling is essential, especially at the start.
The Current Freelancing Reality
Freelancing promises control, freedom, financial gain, and opportunities for travel, often referred to as "digital nomadism." While these benefits are attainable, many freelancers today find themselves struggling.
Here’s a typical freelance trajectory:
- Leave a job they dislike.
- Start freelancing.
- Face challenges in securing work.
- Land a few gigs.
- Return to full-time employment.
For a select few freelancers, the journey looks like this:
- Leave a job they dislike.
- Start freelancing.
- Experience both successful and challenging months.
- Repeat the cycle for years.
If this second scenario resonates with you, congratulations! You are a thriving freelancer.
However, for many, the reality involves applying for gigs, securing some, losing others, and fluctuating between good and bad months. It’s a pattern of feast and famine—one month might yield 1k, while another could bring in 5k, or even nothing at all.
You might be thinking, "This perspective is overly negative… my friend is a freelancer making thousands monthly!"
I would argue your friend is not merely a freelancer; she is operating as a business owner.
Redefining Freelancing
The term freelancer has lost its original significance; it has become devalued. Nowadays, when clients hire freelancers, they often seek quick fixes rather than top-tier talent.
Freelancers often face disrespect from employers due to their perceived lack of commitment. Many freelancers treat it as a side gig, which leads to a cycle of self-devaluation that is mirrored in how they are treated by clients.
The freelancer mindset can be detrimental. It’s time to shift your identity from freelancer to business owner.
Consider the differences:
- Freelancer Fred chases gigs on freelance platforms, while Business Owner Barry attracts clients effortlessly.
- Fred works in coffee shops, whereas Barry operates from a dedicated office.
- Fred’s communication is convoluted, making it hard for clients to engage, while Barry’s messages are clear and concise.
- Fred is a generalist, taking any job, while Barry specializes in a niche.
The distinctions go on. Barry views selling as a part of business, while Fred views it negatively. Barry has multiple bank accounts for organized financial management, while Fred struggles with budgeting.
Business Owner Barry treats his enterprise like a Fortune 500 company, while Freelancer Fred treats it like a homework assignment, waiting for success to happen without taking proactive steps.
Transitioning from Freelancer to Business Owner
To evolve, dedicate at least one day a week (or half a day) to work on your business. When you’re solely focused on client work, you’re helping them grow, not yourself. You need to implement systems, processes, and a solid marketing strategy.
If you’re unwilling to commit to this, consider stepping away from freelancing unless you’re okay with the unpredictable nature it often brings.
Many talented individuals falter in freelancing because they shy away from the business aspect, focusing only on their craft. However, the competition is now too intense to ignore the business side.
Remember, if nothing changes, nothing changes.
So, if you want to pursue freelancing, go for it. But if you’re tired of financial instability and unfulfilling projects, it’s time to elevate your approach or consider a different path.
For those eager to enhance their skills:
- Enroll in courses.
- Read insightful literature.
- Watch informative webinars.
- Network regularly.
- Prioritize self-care.
- Embrace your identity as a business owner—not just a freelancer.
Most importantly, take action!
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Chapter 1: The Challenges of Freelancing
Freelancing can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction if not approached correctly. It’s essential to understand the modern landscape and adapt.
Section 1.1: The Rise of Competition
As freelancing has grown, so has the competition. New platforms and social media have altered the game significantly.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Importance of Marketing
Section 1.2: Shifting Mindsets
Transitioning from a freelancer to a business owner requires a fundamental shift in mindset and approach.
Chapter 2: Learning from Experience
The first video titled What to Do When You're Sick of Client Work offers insights on how to navigate the challenges faced by freelancers.
The second video titled Sick Days When Freelancing discusses how to manage health and well-being while freelancing.