Cons of Freelancing: It isn't rosy and cosy always.

The challenges are real. So let's just talk it out for once.

Before I begin, I always promise that I will write newsletters consistently and then…

There’s nothing. But again, I apologize for this and let’s try can be consistent this time around.

So, we live in a world where everyone is becoming a consultant or selling you stories of how you can get started as a freelancer.

Yes, freelancing looks cheesy and lucrative. Every freelancer on youtube is making $100k+. Wow, bro. I wanna do the same.

But my friend, like any other shiny object in this world, freelancing also comes with its own set of challenges.

In this newsletter (which is coming ages after I posted my last newsletter), we will explore some of the cons of freelancing. Kyunki bhaiya ye janna zaruri hai.

Toh, without any further adieu, here we go.

It’s F’in Hard - It’s Not Easy to Get Your First Client

One of the biggest challenges of freelancing is finding your first client. This can be a daunting task, especially when you’re starting out and don’t have a portfolio or network to draw from.

That challenge was absolutely real for me. Being an introvert, I was so shy of pitching about my services to anyone I knew

In addition, the competition in many industries is fierce, making it even harder to stand out and win over clients.

The key to success in this situation is to be fearless. Don’t let the fear of rejection or the unknown hold you back from putting yourself out there and reaching out to potential clients.

The best time to start freelancing or any business is when you have enough runway, such as when you’re staying with your parents, to support you as you build your business. And 

Boring/Lonely - The Solitude of Working Alone (Akela hu! Bohot)

Working as a freelancer can be a lonely experience, as you spend most of your time working alone and don’t have the social interactions that come with working in an office. This can lead to feelings of boredom and isolation, which can be difficult to manage over time.

To combat the loneliness of freelancing, it’s important to make an effort to connect with other freelancers and entrepreneurs in your area. Joining a local freelancers association, attending networking events, or participating in online communities can provide a sense of connection and support that is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Bureaucratic - The Processes and Procedures of Running a Business

Another challenge of freelancing is the bureaucratic aspect of running a business. As a freelancer, you need to learn and implement certain processes and procedures consistently over time to ensure the success of your business. This includes sending proposals, maintaining contracts, invoicing, taxes, and managing your finances, among other things.

In order to make this aspect of freelancing less overwhelming, it’s important to educate yourself on the procedures and processes that you need to follow.

Seek out resources like online guides, and books, and reach out to groups like “Freelance Rivistars” to help you understand the steps you need to take. Additionally, consider hiring a chartered accountant (or simply an accountant) to handle your finances and taxes, as this can free up your time to focus on growing your business.

Toh dekho, freelancing can be a rewarding and fulfilling way to work, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

From the difficulties of finding your first client to the loneliness of working alone, and the bureaucratic aspects of running a business, it’s important to be prepared for the cons of freelancing.

By being fearless, staying connected, and educating yourself on the processes and procedures of running a business, you can overcome these challenges and find success as a freelancer.

I wish you all the best.