My Unexpected Journey into Freelancing: From Fluke to a New Path

I’m a firm believer that things happen for a reason especially when you least expect them. As mentioned in my previous introductory blog, I wasn’t sure how to start my journey into freelancing but it began entirely by chance, a fluke, if you will. I was in the middle of searching for my next career move, something stable and secure. I had always been focused on finding the right full-time position, where I could apply my skills and grow within a company. But then, a former colleague reached out to me with a simple request that set me on a path I wasn’t sure how to begin.

The First Step: A Simple Request

It all started with a message from an old colleague: "Hey, can you create an image for me?" I hadn’t been freelancing or doing any side gigs up to that point, but I thought, "Why not?" I had the time, and any little bit of work helps when you’re in between jobs. So, I said yes. The project was straightforward, something I could knock out quickly, and before the day was over, I had delivered the final product. The best part? That image is now proudly displayed on their client’s website, serving as a small but satisfying testament to my work.

That first project was a small victory, but it got me thinking. I had been considering freelancing for a while, but I wasn’t sure how to start. I’ve always been adaptable to changing situations yet freelancing seemed like a big leap into the unknown. I had been so focused on structure and the security of a steady paycheck that the unpredictability of freelancing felt risky. But that small project made me realize that maybe, just maybe, there was something to this freelancing gig that I hadn’t fully appreciated.

The Follow-Up: A New Opportunity

A day or two after I delivered that image, I received another email. It was the same colleague, this time with a different request: "Hey, do you want to edit some webinars for us?" Suddenly, I was flooded with memories of my past work experiences, where I had handled similar tasks. It was like revisiting an old friend, familiar and comfortable. I agreed to take on the project, and once again, I found myself enjoying the work.

Editing webinars might sound tedious to some, but for me, it was a chance to dive into something I knew well. It was a reminder of what I was capable of and how much I enjoyed the creative process. More importantly, it showed me that freelancing wasn’t just about the work itself; it was about the freedom to choose the projects that excite me, to work on my terms, and to reconnect with the skills I’ve honed over the years.

Discovering the Appeal of Freelancing

What started as a one-off favor quickly turned into a series of small projects, each one reinforcing the idea that freelancing could be more than just a temporary stopgap. I began to see the appeal of this lifestyle. There’s a certain satisfaction in completing a project and knowing that it’s entirely your own effort that brought it to life. You’re not just a cog in a larger machine; you’re the entire machine, responsible for every aspect of the work, from start to finish.

Freelancing also offers a level of flexibility that’s hard to find in a traditional 9-to-5 job. You can choose when and where you work, allowing you to create a schedule that fits your life, rather than the other way around. For someone like me, who values independence and the ability to manage my own time, this was a revelation.

Of course, freelancing isn’t without its challenges. The unpredictability of income, the need to constantly find new clients, and the lack of a stable paycheck can be daunting. But there’s also a sense of empowerment that comes with it. You’re in control of your own destiny, and that’s a powerful feeling.

Balancing Freelancing with a Full-Time Career

As much as I’ve enjoyed my initial foray into freelancing, I’m still very much focused on finding a solid, full-time position in Marketing and Graphic Design. There’s something to be said for the security of a steady income and the benefits that come with a traditional job. However, my experience with freelancing has shown me that it doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. There’s no reason why I can’t do both.

In fact, I’m seriously considering continuing to freelance on the side, even after I secure a full-time job. It’s a way to keep my skills sharp, explore different types of projects, and maintain a level of creative freedom that I might not always get in a more structured work environment. Plus, it’s a great way to supplement my income and build a diverse portfolio.

Looking Ahead: The Future of My Freelancing Journey

Looking back, it’s funny to think that my freelancing journey started on a fluke, with a simple request to create an image. But that small project opened a door to a world of possibilities I hadn’t experienced before. It’s shown me that there’s more than one way to build a career, and sometimes, the best opportunities are the ones you stumble upon by accident.

As I continue to search for my next full-time opportunity, I’m excited about the prospect of balancing it with a thriving freelance business. Who knows where this path will lead? What I do know is that I’m open to the possibilities and ready to embrace whatever comes next. Whether it’s through a traditional job, freelancing, or a combination of both, I’m confident that I can create a career that’s both fulfilling and flexible, allowing me to grow in ways I never imagined.

In the end, what started as a simple request has turned into a new avenue for growth and exploration. And for that, I’m incredibly grateful.