Freelance break, burnout or 'sellout'?

Question

As a longtime freelancer, I'm wondering if I'm as effective as I used to be, or should I consider returning to full-time. What's changed in the day-to-day workplace?

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you for this, and I SO agree. The '9-5' lifestyle is really challenging to embrace after being at co-working spaces and my dining room table for so long.  I love silence.  I love talking to myself. I often feel like a dog: I love walks, naps and food at random times throughout the day.  I can't do that in a cube or a long table where people are talking, listening to bad music or shouting over partitions. Not to mention the time wasted on commutes in crowded trains/buses. I recently turned down an extended gig b/c the the pay was 'meh' (yes, I asked for more) and they wouldn't allow me to WFH for 2 days to compensate for it. NEXT!

SShep · Answer

As an on again off again freelancer, I can relate. I've gone back to the '9 to 5' and let me tell you... the autonomy you enjoy as a freelancer, especially schedule-wise, is a difficult thing to lose. I found myself unhappy at jobs with strict schedules, so, if you do go back full time, I highly suggest finding a position with a flexible schedule and the option to work from home!

Jill L. Ferguson · Answer

Hi, Focused695523. You are correct in that the rates have gone down and the qualification requirements have gone up. It's a bit crazy and disheartening. Are you a part of the big online community of women writers and content creators that is a secret group? If not, DM me and I'll let you know how to join, and it is free. (They have rules against talking about it in public spaces.) Other groups to check out are freelancing females and freelance success. (I know a bunch about this because I've freelanced for more than three decades and I wrote the book Creating a Freelance Career that was published by Rutledge at the end of last year.)  Also, FGB will be starting group soon and I will be moderating one for freelancers and entrepreneurs so stay tuned for more info on that.

Anonymous · Answer

I'd probably want more of a content creation role than strategy, and I'd like to manage teams again. Unfortunately, the job postings I've seen lately are equal to three people's qualifications at a pretty significant price drop. Motivation is a big factor to determine my next step.

Julez · Answer

I think all of our day-to-days are quite different, depending on the company and manager. If you were to go back to full-time what kind of role would you be looking into?

A reliable paycheck and benefits is nice but also the ability to freelance has it's own kind of freedom.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you for your wisdom and congratulations on the book! Yes, I'm in more than a few online groups, but am always open to joining more. I am in Freelancing Females but not Freelance Success. I'll def contact u and we can go from there. Thanks again.

Anonymous · Answer

good point - I should look into that. Thank u!

Maggie B · Answer

If you're already freelancing, maybe consulting would be a logical step back in to the 9-5.

Freelance break, burnout or "sellout"?

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