Many writers would love to become full-time freelancers but aren’t quite ready to take the jump – and for good reason, it’s a scary jump to take. You’re used to having a paycheck every other week, you’re used to having an income that you can expect and a budget that you can follow, and you’re used to working for others.

There are a lot of uncertainties when it comes to freelance writing, but there is also a lot of reward. Now, I’m not going to talk about the many benefits there are to becoming a freelance writer, but I will tell you what you need to have in place before you commit to becoming one.

First, you need to have enough money to hold you over for three months. This isn’t an absolute requirement, but I strongly suggest it. As a beginning freelancer, you don’t need the pressure of trying to make the same income that you once did. This type of stress with only lead you to regret your decision. By having enough money set aside to carry you over for three months, you’ll be able to work the business the way it’s supposed to be done – build your clientele, establish relationships, and focus on quality.

In order to do those three things, however, you’ll need a computer with Microsoft Word (or a similar program) and a high-speed internet connection. Your computer is your communication, it’s as simple as that.

Lastly, you’ll need to have a positive attitude around your choice. Right now, you’re probably thinking that being positive will be an easy thing to have, but it’s not. You’ll have struggles at the beginning…struggles to find jobs, struggles to find a comfortable schedule, and struggles to get paid the rate that you feel you deserve. Don’t worry, if you get through the hard times you’ll find the light at the end of the tunnel…the light that leads to time freedom, financial freedom, and career satisfaction.

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Comments

  1. 1
    Rachel Kuptz // January 30th, 2008 at 9:32 pm

    Hi Chad,

    Great articles you’ve written, especially this one. I came across your blog from another freelance blog (I’m not sure which one now) and I’ve been reading each through post – keep up the great work! I’m interested in what else you have to say, especially since I’ve just made the switch from employee to freelancer. I’d like to see the post regarding how you decide your rates; that has been the hardest part for me so far.

    Keep up the good work!
    Rachel

  2. 2
    Chad // January 30th, 2008 at 10:02 pm

    Thanks Rachel – great looking site you have! I’ll try and put something together on rates soon, although I’m still trying to figure that out that part of freelancing as well ;)

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