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What Does True Freelancing Cost? Pt. 1
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I’m a full time freelancer — I do have a proper uniform for the job. A comfy pair of fleece yoga pants that I affectionately refer to as, my “freelance pance”
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Good writing. Keep up the good work. I just added your RSS feed my Google News Reader..
Matt Hanson
@Liz — LOL, I have one as well. It’s an old hippie skirt that is pretty much torn to shreds at this point. But it’s so comfy and just feels like a part of my work process :).
@Matt — Thanks, I hope you enjoy what’s to come :)
And there was me thinking the robes I have been ordering in from Egypt espcially were crucial. Well, least that will save me some money! :)
All valid point and all good to hear from time to time. The cash flow issue is one I have not experienced before, and because Im really only just starting out, things are, shall we say, challenging.
But am hopeful…
Looking forward to the next installments.
Graham
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Genius — soo many giggles had in this, thanks for making this freelancer dude smile :)
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And don’t you hate having to keep track of the calendar, so you remember when the official day is to switch from shorts and tees back to sweats?
Seriously, tho’, does anyone videoconference–I’ve had iChat for years now; and there’s Skype and Google with a video capacity, but I’ve yet to have a single client or prospective client suggest or take up my suggestion that we videoconference.
I really enjoyed this one. And is so true.
I have trouble explaining my girflriend (which does and always used to work in an offcie) tha I DO ACTUALLY WORK.
“Would you bing the laundy?“
“OK“
2 minutes lather:
“Did you brought the laundy?“
“Hell no, I am working right now!“
“OK, do it then when you’re taking some rest“
another couple of minuutes
“Did, you…?“
“No“
“Why, you are at home? It takes just a minute“
“Why don’t you come to home for just a minute to bring that laundy?!“
“This is impossible! I am working!”
and so on, and so on…
Hey. Thanks for this. I just started freelancing in April and I’ve been seriously considering applying for a “real job” over the past week. I don’t want a new job at all. I LOVE what I do. I’m just not rolling in the dough right now and I feel guilty that I get to work from home in my super comfy clothes, dog in lap, doing what I love. It doesn’t seem like I deserve that…especially when I’m not making very much money.
Anyway, your post made me feel better, more justified in my career as a freelancer.
Ahh..but you wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world!
I feel I have no choice–it’s what I was meant for, so I better make it a go. While I’m at it, why not wear comfortable clothes? I’m sure my dogs don’t mind if I’m not suited up in Prada for them ;0)
This was an excellent read. The cost of being a freelance designer extends far beyond the value of a dollar. It’s a tough gig, but hey someone’s gotta do it!
Getting the ball rolling is the hardest part. I think you feel these things especially before you have established yourself. I’ve been doing freelance for a few years now, except it’s not my full time gig. I certainly haven’t established myself yet and I feel these pains often.
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Referring to pants “…are also recommended, but equally not required.”
Ha! Nice.
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@ ImJustCreative — I believe in the initial draft of the Freelancer’s code robes were required. You probably just didn’t see the revised copy sent out in late ’07 :P.
I honestly don’t think you will be hoping long. I think you will go far, fast. My friend, you got skills!
@ svgrob — Glad to oblige!
@ Stephen Tiano — I just wear my shorts over my sweats and then I’m covered all year long! ;) As for the videoconferencing, we haven’t had any experiences with it yet, not with clients, only family/friends using Skype or IM.
@ crowdadmin — lol! Thanks for that exchange. Folks just don’t understand us do they?
@ Stephanie — Wow, Stephanie, thanks for that. You made me smile. Glad we could reassure you some. Keep it up!
@ Alma Gray — Wouldn’t trade at all, you are correct. For me, it’s the first time that I’ve been able to incorporate writing into my actual job. Big plus there.
Apparently dogs aren’t as picky as cats. Ours always look down on us for dressing down. That’s why they aren’t welcome in the office/sanctuary.
@ Bob Pease — Thanks, Bob. It’s true, it is tough in the beginning, but it’s an awesome gig no matter how you slice it!
@ Frank — Ha, thanks. Much appreciated.
Nice article, and oh so true. Both sides of the fence have their pros and cons, it’s good to see some of them explained.
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@ Miles, thanks for the kind words. Much appreciated.
Good read,
#2 irritates me the most! you’re expected to be available (to everybody) all the time just because you work from home.
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Its not all work work work is it! I know what you mean regarding your girlfriend and her understanding of the term ‘working from home’ I have learned to accept that working from home (as a freelancer) means you are also on call to do some of the household chores or changing nappies for example. They just don’t get it do they?!
Yeah, that part about Cash Flow A No Go really resonates with me.
But I’m in my first year. So, no big deal. Getting a real job will help keep the cash flow going for the freelance sideline.
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