Why I Chose Freelance Over Full-Time

Hello there, fellow wanderers! It's been over two years (wow, that really highlights just how long I was unemployed lol) since I took the plunge into the realm of freelancing, and boy, what a rollercoaster it has been! They say that life is all about choices, and let me tell you, embracing the freelance life has been one of the best choices I've ever made. From pitching clients to setting my own hours, this career shift has been nothing short of exhilarating!

Proclaiming my love for freelancing

Marking the milestone of two years as a freelancer, I can't help but feel an electrifying sense of accomplishment. From the early days of uncertainty to the current stage of confidence and fulfilment, the journey has been a tapestry woven with determination, LOTS of learning, and growth. As someone who unabashedly leans towards the pro-freelance side, I can say that this path suits my personality and aspirations like a glove.

Freelancing has gifted me the flexibility to set my own schedule, work from wherever my heart desires, and truly be the captain of my own ship. There's an inexplicable thrill in forging my own path, taking on projects that resonate with me, and having the autonomy to shape my career trajectory. It's like I'm the author of my own story – a story that's dynamic, exciting, and uniquely mine.

So, to put it simply, why I chose freelance over full-time: it's the freedom, folks! Picture this: the sun's out, birds are chirping, and I'm sitting on my porch, tapping away on my laptop while sipping on a cup of tea. No, it's not a day off; it's just another day in the life of a freelancer who's living their best life.

I wanted more than a bland routine. When you're not chained to a desk, your creativity takes flight like a majestic eagle soaring through the open sky. You're not just a cog in a machine – you're the inventor, the artist, the architect of your own ideas. And let me tell you, that level of ownership? It's addictive. It's the kind of freedom that makes your soul sing and your heart race!

Remember the last time you tried a new cuisine that made your taste buds do the happy dance? Freelancing is like that – a constant buffet of fresh experiences, each more tantalizing than the last. One day you're crafting witty copy for a fashion brand, the next you're knee-deep in coding for a tech startup. The variety is dizzying, and the learning curve? Well, let's just say it's more of a learning rollercoaster.

Pros and cons – freelance vs. full-time

Okay now, let's dive into the age-old debate of freelance vs. working under a company's wing. While I might be a fervent advocate of freelancing, I can't deny that both sides have their own pros and cons. So, let's break some of it down, shall we?

FREELANCE PROS:

Freedom reigns: As a freelancer, you're the master of your time. You decide when, where, and how you work.
Diverse portfolio: Freelancing offers the chance to work on a variety of projects for different clients, sharpening your skills across the board.
No commute, no problem: Say goodbye to the daily commute and hello to a cozy home office or a café of your choice!
Unlimited earning potential: Your earnings are a direct reflection of your hustle and skills – the sky's the limit!

FREELANCE CONS:

The hustle: Freelancing demands a consistent hustle for projects, which can be daunting during lean periods.
Isolation: Working solo might get lonely; the watercooler chats are replaced with video calls and virtual high-fives.
Uncertain income: Income can fluctuate, making financial planning a tad trickier.
No employee benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans – you're responsible for it all.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE PROS:

Stability and benefits: Companies offer stable paychecks, benefits, and a structured work environment.
Team camaraderie: You're part of a team, fostering collaboration and social interaction.
Learning opportunities: Companies often provide training and development programs to enhance your skills.
Clear boundaries: Work usually stays within defined working hours, leaving your personal time untouched.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE CONS:

Limited autonomy: Company roles might limit your ability to explore different tasks or projects.
Routine rut: The 9-to-5 grind might start feeling monotonous after a while.
Less flexibility: Strict schedules and office presence can hinder your work-life balance.
Office politics: Navigating office dynamics can be a challenge, especially if you're not a fan of corporate culture.

To each their own – the final word

At the end of the day, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the freelance vs. full-time conundrum. Just like how I found my calling in freelancing, others might discover their perfect fit within the structured confines of a company. It's all about understanding your strengths, needs, and aspirations and making a choice that aligns with them.

If you're itching to step into the freelance world or still pondering your path, here are some questions you can consider:

What are your top priorities: freedom or stability?
Do you thrive in a collaborative setting or do you prefer flying solo?
Are you comfortable with the ebb and flow of freelance income, or do you seek financial predictability?
Can you adapt to the ever-changing landscape of freelancing, or do you prefer a structured routine?

Whether you choose to soar as a freelancer or thrive under the banner of a company, the adventure is yours to embrace. The key is to find the balance that resonates with you. Life is too short to settle for anything less than fulfilling. As for me, I'm happily riding the freelance wave, relishing every unpredictable twist and turn!

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LENNE