Why You Can (and Should) Become a Freelance Writer

I've never regretted the decision to quit my job back in 2013 to become a freelance writer online. Even though I've done different things since – including working salaried jobs – that decision has given me so many things: a sense of purpose, courage, confidence and, above all else, freedom.

In fact, I think it’s the best decision I’ve ever made, and I actively encourage you to make the same one.

Whether you become a freelance writer on the side while working another job, or you decide to go full-time, here are some simple truths about what to expect.

1. If you want to become a freelance writer you can just do it

You don’t have to wait around for anybody to give you a break. You don’t have to get your first masterpiece published on the latest and greatest blog. You become a freelance writer by carving out your own path.

The world of work is different to how it used to be. The traditional method of going to a designated place each day while being drip-fed a salary is no longer necessary if you don’t want it to be.

In other words, it isn’t necessary for you.

Self-employed workers have realised they can do better for themselves than anyone else can do for them.

From day one you can get out there and pitch for freelance writing jobs.

You can build a writing portfolio from scratch.

As an online writer, the world is yours.

2. It’s hard work but not all that difficult

I’m not saying it’s not hard work to make a full-time living as a freelance writer online. Depending on your situation, it will take a while to build up enough to live on.

But it took a while to build up what you live on now didn’t it? And is it enough?

Probably not.

The surprising thing is, when you decide to become a freelance writer and work hard at it, you can build up a healthy living relatively quickly.

You can get paid more than once a month – or more than once a week if you like – and if you need a bit of extra money you can just work a bit harder (or smarter – it’s up to you).

So sure, you have to work hard. Making your own money to meet all your financial commitments isn’t easy. But making your own money on the side and then building it into something bigger and better is definitely achievable.

Sometimes the attainability of this goal is either over-complicated or overlooked, and the temptation is just to give up and be like everybody else.

But where’s the fun in that? Where’s the freedom? Where’s the challenge, and where’s the creative spirit?

3. As a freelancer the possibilities are endless

So why isn’t everybody doing it? The simple answer is: because some people place other things higher up on their list of priorities. Things like social status, security and predictability to name a few. And that’s fine too. That’s their choice.

Different people value different things. Which makes sense when you think about it: the world is made up of wildly different individuals so it stands to reason that we don't all have the same values.

For instance, I value above most things, including security and social status, something I’ve already mentioned and am grateful for each and every day: freedom.

The trick is to find out what you – that’s you, not everybody you work with/sleep with/follow on Insta – hold as your most important personal and professional value.

Then work towards that every single day.