Let’s Get Real – Being a Freelancer Isn’t Always Cupcakes and Rainbows

 

In building this freelance writing site for you, I’ve been focusing on how you can get started, how to find work and the basics of copywriting.

 

But I need to let you in on something important.

 

It ain’t easy.

 

Being a freelance writer isn’t always bright, sunshiny days with cupcakes and rainbows.

 

It’s tough.

 

You’ve got to reach out and find your own clients. You have to put effort into networking, building your site and finding your way into the right circles to eventually have clients find you.

 

Like I said, it’s not easy.

 

But it’s worth it.

 

In so many ways.

 

Like when you get that email in your inbox that says, “Let’s move forward with this. I’ve just sent payment so you can get started.”

 

Or when you land your first major project and you know your bills will be paid for at least a month or more, so you dance around the living room with your toddlers wondering why you suddenly like dancing to Paw Patrol.

 

When your youngest is running a fever and you bring him to the doctor without having to call anyone to ask for time off. Then you spend the rest of the day snuggled with him on the couch until he feels better.

 

Or on one of those beautiful fall days when the air is crisp, the wind is blowing through the trees and you decide to play in the yard all day with the kids since you aren’t chained to a desk. Without feeling the slightest bit of guilt.

 

You call the shots.

You’re the boss.

You pick your clients. You choose your rates. You decide when you need a day off.

 

And if you don’t have enough clients so you’re always busy looking for work, get more. Do what you did to get the few you do have, times 10. Amp up your marketing. Do some cold calling (or cold emailing). Reach out to people you know. Contact local businesses, even if they aren’t exactly in your niche, and talk to them about updating their website or blog.

 

You’re the boss.

 

Keep working until you’re comfortable. Relax for a week and then push for more.

 

Don’t stay comfortable with your career. If you do, you’ll end up with one great, steady client who you enjoy working for.

 

Then they’ll decide they don’t need a copywriter anymore. You’ll be back at square one.

 

Believe me, it happens to the best of us.

 

Like I said, it’s not all cupcakes and rainbows.

 

It’s more like cupcakes and overcast days, on average. Pleasant days where the sun isn’t too hot, but it’s not cold.

 

But with cupcakes, which always makes it better.

 

 

I’ve been doing this for over a decade. There are ups and downs just like any other career path. But for me, as a mom who wants to be at home for my kids and husband, to have quiet mornings without the rush, to make dinner in the evenings for my family, to make every practice and every game, to be here and to not answer to anyone, it’s perfect.

 

What about YOU?

 

Why are you a freelance writer? Or why do you want to become a freelance writer? I’d love to hear more about your journey. Send me an email or leave a comment about the reason(s) why you are a freelance writer.