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When I began sharing that I was going through a divorce, a few acquaintances inquired if I intended to find a “real job” or what my plans were for employment. This struck me as an odd question since I was already employed — as a freelancer for nearly eight years.
While I did need to ramp up my workload after becoming the sole provider for my household, I quickly tapped into my network and hustled for more opportunities. Freelancing is undoubtedly a job, people! Sure, there are days when I feel like tossing my hustle out the window because I’m exhausted from the constant search for better-paying gigs. But most days, I cherish the flexibility and freedom that come with freelancing.
My income comes from various streams, ensuring that no two days, weeks, or months are alike. The four novels I’ve published provide me with passive royalties each month, and while I can boost that income through advertising, it’s not a necessity. With a degree in music performance, I teach a few hours of violin and viola lessons weekly. In non-pandemic times, I perform with the local symphony (I’m so close to returning!). I also write articles for different websites and take on editing projects to fill in any gaps.
The independence I enjoy is immense. I set my own schedule — if I choose to work one day and take the next off, I can do that without seeking permission. If I have a headache and want to rest, I can nap and catch up later. For most of my work, my laptop serves as my office. I can visit my long-distance partner without needing to check in at an “office,” allowing me to work from anywhere as long as I have my laptop.
Right now, I’m writing this article from my couch, dressed in a T-shirt and underwear, with no makeup, hair askew, and my dog snuggled beside me. I take bites of cinnamon oatmeal and sip coffee between sentences. Best of all, I’m generating income just by sharing my thoughts. Hello, friends!
This is how I earn my living, Judgy McJudgyface, who seems to think freelancing isn’t a genuine job. And yes, I do make money. With the right skills and networking, it’s entirely feasible to earn a good living as a freelancer. Many freelance writers I know make six figures. A woman who started blogging around the same time I did has built a million-dollar business creating high-conversion email campaigns. The editor of my novels earns a great income through her freelance work, with clients flocking to her by word of mouth because she excels at her craft.
Just because someone isn’t employed by someone else for 40 hours a week doesn’t mean they’re not working. And just because someone is in their pajamas doesn’t mean they aren’t making money.
Of course, freelancing has its challenges. Finding affordable health insurance can be a significant hurdle for many aspiring freelancers. My children are covered under their dad’s plan, while I have a policy subsidized by the Affordable Care Act. For those needing to insure a whole family while earning close to the ACA subsidy threshold, health insurance costs can rival rent or mortgage payments, often outweighing the benefits of freelancing’s independence and flexibility.
Tax season is another nightmare for freelancers. I pay estimated quarterly taxes and sift through around 22 1099s come tax time. Each year, I wish I could just submit a W-2 and be done with it.
Nevertheless, I love the freelancer lifestyle. It’s a legitimate job, and yes, I earn real money from it. So, if you’re a freelancer hustling like I am, know that your work is just as valid as that of anyone with a 9-to-5 job. And if you’re someone who enjoys the simplicity of a W-2, please don’t undermine a freelancer’s work by asking when they’ll get a “real job.” It just makes you seem inconsiderate.
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Summary
Freelancers often face misconceptions about their work, with some believing it isn’t a “real job.” This piece emphasizes the legitimacy and income potential of freelancing, highlighting the independence it offers, alongside its challenges, like healthcare and taxes. Ultimately, it advocates for the recognition of freelancing as valid work.