Survival Skills for Freelancers

Before embarking on your freelance journey, take time to self-assess.

Thinking about quitting your day job and going freelance? Join the crowd. In recent years, self-employment numbers have grown exponentially, especially among young workers. The rewards are many, but a successful transition into freelance life requires an honest self-assessment of your fitness and reasons for pursuing self-employment. 

To start, make a list of pros and cons detailing what you like and don’t like about being an employee. How much do you value a steady salary and paid benefits? Can you live without working and socializing with others? 

Next, consider your professional strengths and weaknesses. If you’re a patient self-starter who likes to take control and has thick skin, you may be a freelancing natural. If you struggle with time management and organization and you procrastinate, however, the freelance life may not be for you.

Personality assessment tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can help you understand your innate tendencies. Even if you’re deficient in some areas...