One of the best side hustles that many are considering is freelancing. And given the many benefits that it provides, many are thinking of transitioning to freelancing full-time. The benefits are numerous, and the most notable one is working remotely. That means fewer commute expenses, better sleep, and working in a comfortable space. The following are the perks that many are appreciating:
Work remotely
Manage your own timings
Choose whom you work with
Set your own rates
Minimal costs
Do work you enjoy– work you’re interested in / Working on your strengths and skills
There’s a demand for it
Low barrier to entry
Managing your own business
Aside from flexibility, there’s also the critical factor of essentially managing your own business. Since you will be working independently, you will be the one to decide your payment rates, schedules, clients, and many others. And if you want to focus on a specific skill or practice, you’re free to do so. Moreover, there is so much room to improve in the field that you want to focus on. It can be personal and professional growth that are huge benefits of freelancing.
Challenges of Being a Freelancer
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Then, that’s because there are also challenges with being a freelancer. Yet, as long as you’re up for these challenges, you will be fine. These challenges include:
Distraction
Managing your own business and clientele
Superior Organisation
Expert communicator / Incompatible communication preferences / poor communication and misunderstandings
Lack of personal connection
Difficulty with delegation
Self Marketing Skills
Knowing the appropriate tools and programs
Time differences, language, and cultural barriers
Loneliness for extroverts
Most of the challenges involved in being a freelancer are related to the same perks that come with it. The fact that you have control of your time and location means it’s so easy to become distracted. Also, it requires you to be so much more attentive than you otherwise should be. This is because it’s so easy to lose your focus and attention at the job.
At the same time, you’re also managing your own business as a freelancer. This means you should be great at the following skills:
Communication
Clerical work
Administrative work for yourself and delivery
Meeting with clients
Pricing and negotiating prices
Building up your own portfolio
Selling your expertise
These are essential business skills to learn. And it can be daunting for some people. Do you think you’re ready to become a freelancer? Or, are you excited to embrace the benefits of freelancing?