Misconceptions About Freelance Life

A Few Myths -- And Several Truths

Hello, Creative HSPs! ❣️

Today’s topic came to me via a feature I read in Freelancing Females’ newsletter entitled “Can Everyone Freelance?”

Diving into freelance - with some intel to arm you. Photo by Keenan Beasley

If you’re already deep in the self-employment trenches, you’ll know that if someone asks you what you do, and you say “I’m a freelance writer” or “I’m self-employed”, it sounds intriguing. However, most people have no idea what freelancing/self-employment actually entails.

Honestly, I didn’t fully understand what was involved before diving into full-time freelancing. And yet, as a Highly Sensitive Person who also struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, I’m still proud of myself for taking the leap into self-employment before overthinking and pulling back.

And, if you’re a creative Highly Sensitive Person, I encourage you to try freelancing, understanding what’s involved will save you some heartache and headache.

Freelancing Myths

Here are a few of the misconceptions I’ve encountered regarding life as a freelance copywriter:

• Payment/accounting systems aren’t necessary

• One needs to be super outgoing & extroverted to be successful

• Expensive software or equipment is needed before getting started

• Negotiating skills regarding fees, deadlines, word count, etc. aren’t part of the process

• All clients will be bullies

• All clients will be easy-going

• Finding paying work is almost impossible

• You’ll constantly be able to write about topics you find appealing

The Truth

The truth about investing in systems and hardware:

• It is important to have some systems in place. Your hardware and software doesn’t have to be super expensive or the fanciest model but your clients will expect you to have one of the latest updates of MS Office or Apple software (and understand Google products).

• You’ll also need some kind of invoicing or accounting system - at the beginning you can use a free version but, as your client list mounts, you’ll likely outgrow it and move into a paid system. I enjoyed Freshbooks (not an affiliate mention).

The truth about getting & keeping clients:

• The truth is you’ll find a wide variety of personalities as you go through your freelancing journey.

• No doubt, you will encounter bullies and difficult personalities as you move through your career. As Highly Sensitive People, we tend to be in touch with our emotions & people pleasers which doesn’t always serve us.

• As your self-confidence and portfolio grows, you’ll be able to weed out unsavory clients.

The truth about getting gigs:

• Similarly, while it’s not easy to find paid gigs, it’s not impossible either.

• Being strategic yet focused, building solid relationships with other freelancers, providing excellent client relations, and being savvy about how you use your time will help you grow your freelance business.

• See the “Opps and Pops” segment below for more intel and opportunities.

What would you add to this list of myths or truths? Please increase the visibility of this Substack channel by liking, commenting, and sharing. ✨

Opps and Pops

• Veteran freelancer Natasha Kueller Relph offers insights for freelancers on LinkedIn

• Freelance Framework — daily freelance writing gigs delivered to your inbox

• For the Love of Freelance podcast

• Central Station in Toronto is looking for freelance graphic designers, production designers, art directors, and copywriters

• Experienced Freelance Medical Writer — Omnicom Health Writers, New York — pays $90-$130/hour

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Until next time, HSP Copywriter — Stay real.

Lisa