Design Resources: The Benefits of Being a Freelancer

Unique Working Practice

This is the primary benefit that many freelancers enjoy. Whatever field you choose to work in, you will be required to move into areas which you have no familiarity with. This can force you into new areas of learning simply through accepting new projects. While some may consider this a negative aspect, it should be considered a positive since it can stimulate you to increase your knowledge and skill sets on specific subjects.

If the subject you expand your knowledge in is directly related to the work you do, this is an even greater advantage. For example, learning to build newer properties of CSS3 or exploring the intricacies of PHP WordPress functions. While no-one has expert knowledge in every area, you can start with grey knowledge areas where you already know the basics and fill in the blanks. This will boost your confidence and very soon you will have a whole new and interesting skill set.

It is important to be realistic and pass on projects which you feel are simply too much. Since you are in charge of your own workload, you can assess whether a new project is worth the time and stress. Learning about an in-depth subject such as an entire new CMS might be inappropriate if you lack the time for research and study. This would depend on your current workload and how badly that you need the fee from the project. As with other aspects of freelancing, you need to learn to the balance for yourself, rather than relying on others to authorize your work practices.

Free Thinking Time

When you are working as a freelancer, you will often find your schedule is erratic. Unless you tie yourself to a rigorous and structured timetable, many projects will be completed as they are needed. You may find you have periods when you are overwhelmed with work and others where your workload is empty. This allows freelancers time to consider their own goals introspectively.

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You can truly assess what you would like to be doing to earn money. Is it related to your current freelancing skills or something completely different? Do you want to work by yourself or work with other talented individuals? A small number of people are able to take the time to sit and contemplate these difficult questions before they jump into their career path. It is worth consideration and freelancing will often provide the opportunity to examine this issue.

Expanding Your Horizons

Many people find themselves struggling for growth, working on the same ideas day after day. When working as a freelancer, you can open yourself up to a far larger number of potential opportunities. This does not have to simply be restricted to project ideas or learning additional skill sets.

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This can also include the people that you meet and collaborate with during individual projects. Getting to know the right people within the right industry can allow you access to a great network. Additionally, as your talents are further recognized, you will be building even more credibility in the role you are working. It is far easier to gain a recommendation when past clients have seen your work and love what you do.

This can allow you to expand your horizons to accomplish contentment in your work. This will allow you to explore outside of the norm, feel more in control of what you are doing and the value you bring to the world. You may feel stressed when you are first beginning to freelance, but after years practicing, you will find that it builds character and allows you to master skills to be proud of.

Allow Yourself to Experience

Many freelancers work on client projects to cover their expenses while they spend their spare time working on their own ideas or side projects. This can be a new start up or company idea related to internet or technology trends, or completely unrelated. The developments in technology have allowed many creative minds to work on their own innovations while still earning money to pay the bills.

This could be considered one of the greatest benefits from working as a freelancer. You can gain insight into what you are looking to build or create. You can gain experiences and knowledge from the expansive variety of people that you meet throughout your journey, absorbing lessons learnt while being true to yourself and your goals.

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You can also take advantage of seeking out peers who are working in a comparable situation with comparable ideas. There is a great learning experience for freelancers to be gained by working within a team of talented and creative people. You’ll gain the ability to work directly with similar like-minded people and ask questions. Even spending spare time building a collaborative effort can be exciting and push you beyond your current knowledge barriers.

Performing work as part of any type of freelance service including marketing or writing will usually mean a busy work schedule. It can be challenging to grasp a work frame of mind when working alone and not leaving for the office every day. Motivation can be a huge challenge to consistently push yourself through the work day.

There are a number of challenges that freelancers face every day from handling difficult clients through to maintaining your creativity. However, freelancing also has great benefits and allowing everything to be a learning experience will allow you to push your boundaries. Working in an unknown area can be stressful but also a valuable and rewarding educational tool, allowing you to develop your skills, knowledge and experience for the future.

Do you agree with the ideas above? What has your experience been so far?