Freelancing Struggles: What You Need to Know

Freelancing has become an increasingly popular career choice, with the global freelance workforce growing exponentially. As of 2024, over 70 million Americans are engaged in freelance work, contributing an estimated $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy annually. This surge in freelancing, accelerated by recent global events, has brought both opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or considering the leap, understanding these “freelancing struggles” is crucial for navigating this dynamic landscape.

What’s Freelancing?

Freelancing in 2024 encompasses a broader range of professions than ever before. While traditional fields like design, writing, and virtual assistance remain strong, emerging areas are gaining traction:

AI and Machine Learning Specialists: As businesses increasingly adopt AI, freelancers with expertise in machine learning, natural language processing, and data science are in high demand.
Sustainability Consultants: With a growing focus on environmental issues, freelancers who can help businesses implement sustainable practices are seeing increased opportunities.
Digital Marketing Specialists: The ever-evolving world of social media and online marketing continues to create niches for freelancers, from TikTok content creators to SEO experts.

Freelancing platforms have also evolved. While Upwork and Fiverr remain popular, niche platforms catering to specific industries or skill sets are on the rise.

For example, Toptal focuses on connecting businesses with top tech talent, while Behance is a go-to for creative professionals.

Freelancing Struggles: What Are Those?

For every freelancer or remote worker in the world, struggles, and hindrances exist that prevent us from doing the job accurately and quickly. Some end up losing clients due to these struggles. Living in a Third World country results in the first and most common struggle of any freelancer in the Philippines.

#1 The Battle for Reliable Internet

In 2024, reliable internet remains crucial for freelancers, but the landscape has changed:

5G Networks: The rollout of 5G networks in many areas has provided faster, more reliable internet options for remote workers.
Starlink and Satellite Internet: Emerging satellite internet services like Starlink are offering high-speed connections in previously underserved areas, potentially revolutionizing where freelancers can work from.
Mobile Hotspots: Advanced mobile hotspot devices now offer backup solutions with 5G speeds, providing a reliable alternative when primary internet fails.

Despite these advancements, having a backup internet solution remains wise. Consider:

A secondary wired connection from a different ISP
A robust mobile data plan with hotspot capabilities
Identifying local coworking spaces or cafés with reliable Wi-Fi for emergencies

#2 Finding Your Productivity Groove

One of the biggest freelancing struggles is maintaining productivity, especially when working remotely. The freedom is wonderful, but it can also lead to distractions and lack of routine.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

Know Your Rhythms: Are you a night owl or an early bird? If you try to force yourself to work when you’re mentally sluggish, you’ll get frustrated. Embrace your natural productivity peaks.
Create Structure: Even without a traditional office schedule, it helps to have a routine. Set work hours, designate a workspace, and minimize distractions when it’s time to focus.
Work Smarter, Not Harder: Techniques like the Pomodoro method (with apps like Tide) can be incredibly helpful. Break work into manageable chunks with short breaks to avoid burnout.
It’s Personal: What works for one freelancer might not work for another. Experiment to find the workflow that maximizes your productivity and minimizes the struggle.

#3 The Client Hunt: A Freelancer’s Constant Challenge

Finding clients is an ongoing struggle for many freelancers. Success depends on knowing where to look and putting your best self forward.

Here’s the scoop:

Job Boards: Sites like Online Jobs PH and Upwork offer a wide range of freelance opportunities. Be prepared for competition and spend time crafting strong proposals.
Social Media: Join relevant industry groups on social media platforms. These spaces are great for networking and finding potential clients.
Word-of-Mouth: Your network is powerful! Let people know you’re freelancing and encourage referrals.
Build Your Presence: A strong portfolio and online presence can attract inbound inquiries, saving you some of that client-hunting effort.
Negotiation is Key!: Once you land a client, be clear about your rates, scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms. This protects both you and your client.

#4 Getting Paid: The Freelancer’s Essential Struggle

Securing a client is exciting, but getting paid reliably is crucial for any freelancer’s success. Unfortunately, payment issues are all too common.

Here’s what you need to know:

Contracts are Key: Always have a clear contract outlining payment terms, timelines, and what happens if payments are late. This protects you in case of disputes.
Deposits & Milestones: Requesting upfront deposits or breaking payment into milestones offers some security against being completely stiffed for your work.
Payment Options: Discuss and agree on payment methods before starting work. Popular options include bank transfers, online platforms (PayPal, etc.), and, increasingly, cryptocurrency.
Red Flags: Beware of clients who resist clear payment terms, have a history of late payments (check reviews!), or offer excuses instead of cash.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Follow up on invoices promptly. If payment is late, don’t hesitate to send reminders or escalate as outlined in your contract.

My Story as a Lesson: Sadly, your situation is far too common. It highlights the importance of setting clear payment expectations from the start to avoid the struggle of chasing down what you’re owed.

Lessons Learned: Overcoming Freelancing Fears

Freelancing teaches us a lot, especially when it comes to managing client relationships and getting paid. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Finding Your Voice: Many of us struggle with asking for what we’re worth. Freelancing forces us to overcome that fear and advocate for ourselves.
Professionalism Matters: Even when clients encourage informality, maintaining a professional demeanor builds trust. Clear communication about your work and your payment helps avoid misunderstandings.
Ask Questions: Never be afraid to clarify details about projects before starting. This shows you’re invested in doing the job right and saves time and frustration eventually.
It’s a Journey: Every interaction teaches you something. Reflect on what works and what doesn’t, and use those lessons to improve your freelancing experience.

#5 Finding Your Perfect Work Zone

The right workspace can make or break your productivity as a freelancer, especially when working remotely. Here’s what to consider:

Your Work Style: Are you easily distracted? Do you need quiet or a little background buzz? Do you spread out or prefer a compact setup? Your answers will inform your ideal workspace.
Home Office Options: Designate a specific area, even if it’s just a corner of a room. Invest in a comfortable chair, good lighting, and tools to minimize distractions.
The Joy of Change: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Every so often a change of scenery, even within your home, can spark fresh ideas.
Cafés & Coworking Spaces: These offer a social environment if you feel isolated working from home. However, factor in the costs and whether you thrive amidst potential distractions.
It’s Personal: There’s no one-size-fits-all. The key is finding a setup that consistently supports your focus and helps you overcome freelancing struggles.

Optimizing Your Home Workspace

Creating the right workspace at home is essential for freelance success and overcoming those work-from-home struggles. Here are some key tips:

Harness Natural Light: Workspaces with good daylight boost productivity and mood. Place your desk near a window if possible.
Comfort is Key: Invest in a comfortable chair that supports good posture. Proper ergonomics reduce fatigue and help you focus for longer.
Inspire Yourself: A simple mood board with favorite quotes, images, or goals can provide motivation when you need it.
Lessons in Every Challenge: Freelancing will throw curveballs your way. Embrace the lessons you learn and use them to improve your process and workflow.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance

One of the most significant freelancing struggles in 2024 is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The flexibility that draws many to freelancing can also lead to overwork and burnout.

Here are strategies to help:

Set Clear Boundaries: Establish and communicate your working hours to clients. Use tools like email autoresponders to reinforce these boundaries.
Time-Blocking: Utilize calendar apps to schedule not just work, but also personal time, exercise, and relaxation.
Digital Detox: Regularly disconnect from work-related technology. This could be evenings, weekends, or scheduled vacation time.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Create a Dedicated Workspace: Having a specific area for work helps create mental separation between professional and personal life.

Remember, sustainable success in freelancing requires taking care of your most valuable asset – yourself.

Freelancing Struggles: Final Thoughts

Freelancing is an incredibly rewarding path, but it’s not without its struggles. From finding clients to managing your workspace and getting paid, there will be obstacles. However, the benefits – flexibility, independence, and the potential for growth – make it all worthwhile.

Remember these key takeaways:

Know your worth: Don’t undervalue your time or skills.
Be proactive: Seek clients, network, and build your online presence.
Prioritize communication: Clear communication with clients builds trust.
Invest in yourself: Upgrade your skills, tools, and workspace for sustainable success.
Embrace the journey: Freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the wins, learn from the setbacks, and keep evolving.

The flexibility of working remotely can be a dream come true, but it requires discipline and self-management. By facing those freelancing struggles head-on, you build a fulfilling career on your terms!