Many of the jobs today are done over a computer, so it makes sense that they can be done anywhere, not just in an office. They can be done in a coffee shop, a park, and even at home. Because of the mobility of these jobs, many people are choosing to go freelance, which means he or she is not bound to one employer. A freelancer is someone who works for different people and organizations, and is paid by the hour, day, or job.
The most common kind of freelancing involves writing and designing, but any profession can be enjoyed freelance. Some examples include photography, accounting, teaching, social media management, acting, and web development. If you make a certain product, you can go freelance by selling it online.
It has many benefits. There is a possibility to earn more because you can accept as many projects as you can handle. Since you’re not tied to one company, you won’t be deducted for lates, absences, and taxes. And the best part, you can always work from home, which means you won’t have to deal with rush hour traffic and the horrendous commute. At the same time, you can work at your convenience, even on vacation! Most importantly, you have enough time to spend with your family.
The pay may be small at first, but if you build your reputation and your clientele, you can even use freelancing as a way to support yourself or your family. Remember, working as a freelancer is similar to starting your own small business.
The number one source for freelancing jobs is through connections. You can ask  your friends or relatives if they need the service you’re offering, or if they can recommend you to people they know. If you’ve already established yourself in your field, it’s the clients who come to you. In this case, you have to be ready with your rates. You should also be ready for some serious haggling.
Of course, freelancing does have its pitfalls. There is no job security, meaning you only get paid for work that you do. If you don’t have a project, then you don’t get paid. This means that you have to hustle twice as hard as office workers, who can slack off a day and still get paid every two weeks. There are also no benefits, such as Philhealth, SSS, and Pag-ibig (but you can do this yourself). And because you will be working largely from home, it’s easy to get distracted by social media, the call of the television (or streaming platforms), and the bed.
For me, the last part is the worst part about working freelance. I work from home most of the time, and sometimes it’s hard to ignore the message alert tone of Facebook or the latest episode of Black Mirror. Sometimes, I tell myself that I’ll rest my eyes in bed for a few minutes, then I’ll fall asleep and wake up hours later. The home is a place for relaxation, and the feeling is strongest when I’m working.
To combat this, I don’t work in bed. I work on my desk, and find different spots when I need a change of pace. I also follow a strict schedule, where I work from 9am to 6pm so I will be motivated to finish earlier. I also try to tune out social media. But I am a weak man, and sometimes temptations win.
The best way to fight these distractions is to work in co-working spaces. Freelancers can rent a desk or an office, and work in peace or interact with other freelancers. A social space allows for networking and collaborations. And because you are in an office surrounded by motivated freelancers, you will be inspired to be productive, too.
You can rent a space by the day or the month, and it often comes with internet access, water and coffee, and free use of printers, fax machines, scanners, and copiers. It’s like having an office for a day.
Thinking of going freelance? Great! Just remember that it takes hard work, and you need the right mindset, motivation, and discipline. But once you hit your stride, it will all be worth it.
Are you a freelancer looking for a home where you can express your creativity? Invest in The Ellis, the place for young, passionate go-getters. The Ellis is a condominium in the heart of Makati’s CBD, and offers young creatives to fulfill their freelance life through its CoLAB shared spaces, a creative, non-conventional working space where residents can simply walk in, grab a cup of coffee, plug in their laptops, and start working. It is also home to R&R amenities like the Pause & Play Room, which has board games, foosball tables, and hammocks; and the The Town Hall, a casual space for socials, intimate galas, movie showings, acoustic sessions, or even art exhibits. It is the perfect venue to unwind, relax, and of course, catch up on work in style.
Do you have freelance tips? Share it in below!
