Menu Close

5 Big Freelancing Headaches

Freelancing may seem more comfortable and untroubled rather than other workforces. But like everything, it has its upsides and downsides. Because being a freelancer is like having two sides of the same coin. It can be a real pleasure, but sometimes it can be a terrible headache. How can you be on the sunny side […]

Freelancing may seem more comfortable and untroubled rather than other workforces. But like everything, it has its upsides and downsides. Because being a freelancer is like having two sides of the same coin. It can be a real pleasure, but sometimes it can be a terrible headache. How can you be on the sunny side of freelancing?

If you aim to be a successful freelancer, you should learn how to overcome the most common headaches in this industry. Because successful freelancers know how to deal with struggles. They can create solutions for the headaches of freelancing. Let’s find out 5 of the biggest headaches of the freelance industry and how to solve them!

1) Not Knowing Where Their Job is Coming From (or When)

Freelancers cannot always predict their future. They’re most likely to be left unsure. It’s hard to tell what the future will bring when you’re working on term based projects. Whether they’re long-term or short.

But to deal with it, you should be proactive! Don’t wait for business to come to you. Go out and get it! Build a process where you can reach out to potential clients. Remember, you are your own best marketing team.

2) Unbalanced Revenue Cycle

One month you’re okay, you have a lot of work to do, but the next month, you can’t seem to get any new work… Unpredictability about your payment schedule might be daunting… This might be the place where you consider getting “a real job”.

You should try and diversify your income streams. Create passive income through multiple channels to help secure yourself even when client work seems to dry out. Never rest on your bankroll.

3) Battling with Burnout and Work Fatigue

Freelancers can struggle with burnout and work fatigue due to their workforce. We know it is hard to balance work and play, especially if it’s your life on the line. We all tend to convince ourselves and our inner circle that the most important thing in life is our jobs. But we must keep in mind that we’re not alone. We have other freelancers and technology is within arm’s reach.

To avoid these kinds of burnouts, try to navigate work inside your network, pass work around and clear your overhead. Remember a single palm can’t clap. Use technology to complete tasks that can be done without you. If necessary, hire another freelancer who can work with you.

4) Not Getting Paid by Clients

It’s one of the biggest headaches to overcome in freelancing. Contracts, work agreements, and the legal stuff can be hard. Plus clients can either forget to pay or avoid paying. As long as they can.

Consider being part of expert networks like Expertera or Toptal to get work. not only do they enable you to grow, but they also take care of the overhead that comes with securing payment.

5) Feeling Isolated

Freelancers can deal with loneliness more than full-time employees. Remember you are not alone. You don’t have to fight every difficulty in your life all by yourself. Don’t forget that we’re in need of social connections. Such as seeing our loved ones, meeting with our friends, and creating time for cultural events.

Find a freelancing community for yourself, especially in your domain of expertise. Consider using coworking spaces such as collective offices. And always make time for your loved ones.

What’s the Next Step?

Always keep in mind that you’re not alone. Everybody tries to overcome the downsides of their jobs and life. Everything can be solved with the right support. You too. Join us here at Expertera, and let’s deal with freelancing headaches together!