Why Freelancing is the Future

Have you ever thought about a freelance career? If you've ever known any freelancers, you've probably had moments of envy of the freedom a freelance lifestyle can bring. But if you're on the fence about whether a freelancing lifestyle could be right for you, I'd like to highlight a few of its benefits:

1. Flexibility.

Freelancing has the unique benefit of enabling you to work whenever and wherever you want and build your work schedule around your other priorities. This can be hugely helpful if you're caring for children or elderly family members, if you travel frequently, or if you simply work better at certain times of the day (anyone else in the 5 a.m. club?). Freelancing was the perfect solution for me as the mother of a young child. I wanted to spend as much time with her in the early years as I could, while still making a good income and growing professionally. Freelancing allows me to work four half-days per week, contribute substantially to our household income, and still have plenty of time to spend with my daughter.

2. Opportunity for growth.

A freelance career allows you to stretch into new areas of expertise much more fluidly than most 9 to 5 jobs can. For example, if you're a graphic designer who wants to try a bit of basic animation, freelancing gives you the room to do this. I have a university degree in fashion design and spent 10 years of my career as a fashion designer. When I started freelancing, however, I opened myself up to other areas of design, and now I specialise in graphic design and website design. Had I stayed at my corporate 9 to 5 job, I would never have had the opportunity to stretch as much as I have.

3. Earning potential.

My rate has more than doubled since I began freelancing. When I would complete 2 or 3 jobs at a given rate, I would then raise my rate by $5. I don't know many 9 to 5 jobs where you can ask for a raise every couple of months! As a freelancer, your earnings are a direct result of the value you provide to clients.

4. Side hustle.

Finally, freelancing is a great way to make a bit of extra income on the side of another job. If you're not ready to make the leap from your current job, you can easily dip your toe in the water of freelancing until you're ready to make the switch, if at all!

If you're ready to give freelancing a try but aren't quite sure how to get started and find clients, check out my free guide: How to Launch Your Freelance Career in 3 Simple Steps.