She Strengthens

From Freelance to Full-Time: Weighing the Pros and Cons

As I reflect on my journey as a freelance writer, I’m reminded of the unconventional path I took after graduating early from college. Instead of pursuing law school or a traditional 9-to-5 job, I decided to take a leap of faith and turn my passion for writing into a career.

The Freedom of Freelance

With no “real-life” examples to follow, I ventured into the unknown, armed with nothing but my writing skills and determination. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats – ghostwriting lyrics, blog posts, and technical pamphlets, to name a few. I’ve worked as a beauty writer, commerce writer, and lifestyle writer, and even had my personal essays published in magazines I admire. Through it all, I’ve been my own accountant, HR department, and secretary, navigating the ups and downs of freelance life without job security or health insurance.

A Dream Job Opportunity

Recently, I was presented with a dream job offer at a legacy publication – a chance to build out a department and work with industry leaders. But as I weighed the pros and cons, I realized that this opportunity came with a hefty price tag. The job required relocating to a new city, which would mean uprooting my entire life, including my partner, home, and chosen family. The cost of living in this new city was more than double what I currently pay, and the offer didn’t include a relocation budget.

Negotiating for What Matters

I negotiated with my potential employers for over two weeks, but ultimately, we couldn’t come to an agreement. I knew that I needed a relocation budget or a significant bump in salary to make the move possible. As I reflected on my priorities, I realized that freelance work gives me the flexibility I need to manage my chronic pain issues, maintain a work-life balance, and remain an active member in my community and chosen family.

Staying True to Myself

In the end, I decided to stay freelance, a decision that’s been both bittersweet and liberating. I’ve come to realize that no job is once in a lifetime, and I’m young enough to change my mind and explore new opportunities. Freelance work allows me to live life on my own terms, with the freedom to take breaks, pursue my passions, and prioritize my well-being.

Knowing My Worth

As I look back on my journey, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the value I’ve placed on my skills and experiences. I know that I’ll face uncertainty and self-doubt in the days ahead, but I’m confident that I’ve made the right decision for myself. I’m proud to be a freelancer, and I’m excited to see where this path will take me next.