An increasing number of workers leave their regular 9 to 5 job to become a freelancer. Many reasons contribute to this growing change in mindset causing them to shift to freelancing. Some want to be their own boss and have full control of their time. Others prefer to choose projects and people they want to work with. For the most part, the common denominator among people choosing to freelance over regular jobs is FREEDOM. They want freedom.

What Is Freelancing?

Freelancing is a contract-based or project-based profession where a person provides services to one or more clients using his skills and experience in any specific field. Since there is no commitment to a single employer, no restriction in the number of projects to handle needs to be strictly followed. It depends on the person instead to determine his work capacity and ability to deliver.

What Is a Freelancer?

A freelancer is someone who offers services to one or more clients using their skills and experience in any specific field for a fee. The working relationship with the clients can be ongoing but there is no expectation of permanent employment with a single client. Furthermore, a freelancer can work as a contractor so he doesn’t have the benefits of a permanent employee but has control over his time and work arrangements.

Examples of Freelance Jobs

• Writer
• Social Media Manager
• Graphic Designer
• Photographer
• Developer
• Fitness Trainer
• Tutor

Common Misconceptions about Freelancing

Freelancing is gaining attention and many are now trying it out but for the wrong reasons. Unfortunately, some think it’s ‘the’ way to get rich without hard labor involved. For this reason, the infographic below summarizes the common myths about freelancing that should be debunked.

Conclusion

If you are new to freelancing or still considering it, the points made above are worth noting down if you want to do it the right way. In any case, Freelancing is not a sweet escape from the regular 9 to 5 job. Contrarily, It requires commitment, hard work and the right mindset which is why it’s not for everybody just like entrepreneurship is not for all.

For freelancers, “great freedom comes with great responsibility.”