Freelancing While Keeping a Day Job: Pros and Cons

We know that when you have a vision, it's tempting to jump all in and see if you sink or swim. But if you're thinking about making the switch to freelancing, your adulting side may be wondering if it's possible to do so while still keeping your day job.

The answer is yes, it is possible to freelance while keeping a day job. In fact, there are plenty of benefits of doing so. Here are a few:

  • Financial stability: Freelancing can be unpredictable, especially when you're just starting out. So, having a steady paycheck coming in from a day job while you build up your freelance business can be super helpful.
  • Networking opportunities: Working a day job can give you more opportunities to tell people what you do on the side, meet new clients, or gain contacts who could potentially hire you as a freelancer in the future.
  • Time to plan: Quitting your 9-5 to become a full-time freelancer is a big decision. It can be helpful to have the time and stability of a day job to plan and prepare for the transition.
  • Flexibility: Freelancing can be a great way to have more control over your schedule, but it can also be a lot of work. Having a day job can give you the flexibility to only take on freelance projects that you're excited about and have the capacity for, rather than feeling pressure to take on too much work.


Of course, there are also some challenges to freelancing while keeping a day job. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Time management: It can be tough to balance your day job with your freelance work. It's important to be disciplined and to set aside specific times each day to work on your freelance projects.
  • Distractions: When you're working from home, it can be easy to get distracted by things like the TV, the internet, or your pets. It's important to find a quiet place to work and to set boundaries so that you can focus on your work.
  • Burnout: Freelancing can be a lot of work, especially when you're just starting out. It's important to take breaks and to not overwork yourself.

 

If you're thinking about freelancing while keeping a day job, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and to make sure that you're prepared for the challenges. If you're willing to put in the work, freelancing can be a great way to have more control over your work life and to achieve your financial goals.


Here are some tips for freelancing while keeping a day job:

  • Set specific times each day to work on your freelance projects. This will help you to stay on track and to avoid distractions.
  • Find a quiet place to work where you can focus. This could be a home office, a library, or even a coffee shop.
  • Set boundaries with your family and friends so that they know when you're working and when you're available. People tend to think you're not "really" working when you're working from home or not at your day job, and can become distractions.
  • Take breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout. Get up and move around, step outside for some fresh air, or take a few minutes to relax, light a candle, and clear your head.
  • Don't be afraid to say no to projects that you don't have time for or that you're not excited about. It's important to focus on the projects that are important to you and that will help you to achieve your goals.

 

Freelancing while keeping a day job can be a great way to have more control over your work life and to achieve your financial goals. If you're willing to put in the work, it can be a successful and rewarding experience. And if your freelance business starts consistently outperforming your day job and you're ready to take the plunge to reach new levels, we've got the perfect candle for you.

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