Seven Reasons Why I Love Freelancing

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This morning, I realized that I am strategically positioned to make any career move I want to make, because I started freelance writing last year June. I have met and connected with people whom I would never have met at my full-time job. I have engaged with police officers, school principals, CEOs and other freelance writers. I have sat and interviewed people about their fears, triumphs and dreams. I have written for several non-profits in diverse fields including health, community engagement, substance abuse and women empowerment. My network has evolved and grown, and so has my interest.

A few weeks ago, I woke up at 5am to attend a client's breakfast fund-raising event, and there, I encountered a Minnesota-based photographer. We started conversing, and I mentioned that one of my deepest desire is to become a travel writer, but I wish I knew how to take better pictures. She immediately asked if I wanted to come alongside her on the job to learn, and I said “Yes. Lets talk about it!” In addition, she is connecting me with some potential writing opportunities. Did I mention I was at an 8am event for another client? If I decide after a few tag alongs that I would rather be in front of a camera than behind it, I know I don’t ever have to wonder. I would still have basic knowledge of photography that I could employ when I finally plunge into travel writing. 

If I decide to leave full-time work or move on from writing (I doubt it), I am open to the options of testing the waters now for what is possibly next in my life…personally and career-wise. Below are seven reasons why I enjoy freelancing. I have many other reasons, but I am not going to bore you with my list of 100. :)

• Flexibility: I can pick and choose. For new freelance writers like myself, it might be wiser to open myself up to a variety of opportunities. However, as the months walk by, I am more aware of what I like, what I do well and what pays more. I have the flexibility to focus in on a niche, but also dabble in other areas. I can choose my hours and project. A big score!

• Network: If I ever needed a new job, I have built a small network of wonderful people that I can call. I do not believe I will have access to these people without my go at freelance writing. It is not enough just to know them though, a good reputation is invaluable.

• Extra Income: Enough said! :)

• Variety: Different clients, different projects, lots of variety. I do not have to get bored. If a project is tasking me, I can dump it for a few hours and work on a different one.

• Broaden Knowledge: Research is my backbone, and I am learning a lot. I interviewed a detective for an article a few months ago, and I learned about the importance of implementing Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) in the design and construction of apartment complexes. Pinch me last year May, and I will never have drank coffee alongside a police officer or be bothered about CPTED.

• Work/Life Balance: If I do decide to dump 9-5, freelancing provides the opportunity to balance life and work. I know when I start having beautiful adorable ever-smiling babies ;), it is something I will strongly consider and building a foundation now is important to me.

• Challenging: I am challenged. I cannot tell you how many times, I have stared at my computer and muttered, “Lord, please help me.” From learning to pitch an idea to getting over a rejected pitch. However, I am growing in the areas I need to grow. I am conscious of my writing, and I can't get away with passive voice, wordiness, comma splice or a missing word. This is work for payment, and do not forget the administration, operation, marketing and budgeting part of it. However, I love love the challenge.

Are you a freelancer, what do you enjoy about it?

 If you are considering freelancing, what draws you to it?

Beloved, You are Loved Absolutely!