Now that I’ve been freelancing for almost a year, I can see that freelancing is not for everyone. The first step in making that jump from office work to freelance is to decide whether or not you have what it takes to become a freelancer.

We all want to be our own boss, but do we all have the drive and dedication that it takes to be successful without the watchful eye of our supervisors? The first time I sent a press release for my (other) home biz, I hesitated before clicking the “submit” button. I wasn’t used to being the sole person to clear a press release and deem it ready for distribution. For over a decade, I had a supervisor making that decision. If anything went wrong, it was his or her call, not mine.

That’s when it hit me: I’m the boss now. I’m the sole decision-maker in my biz. The final responsibility rests with me.

Does everybody have the guts to call the shots? Sadly, the answer is “no”.

Therefore, you have to really sit down and think about what makes you so special in the world of freelancers.

Do you have a large enough skill set to make you stand out among the hoards of different people all seeking the same projects as you?

Do you have the time management skills necessary to run your own freelancing operation and meet all of the deadlines set upon you by your clients?

Do you have the self-discipline to shut out distractions and get the work done in time?

Do you have the self-confidence to keep believing in yourself even after you’ve been rejected or experience failure?

Do you have the gumption to sell yourself and your services?

Do you have the guts to take responsibility for your business – and your whole life?

Do you have the patience and people skills to negotiate and deal with all sorts of people, including those who annoy you?

Do you have the motivation to keep improving yourself and be a lifelong learner?

If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, congratulations! You probably have what it takes to become a successful freelancer.

If you have even the slightest doubt in your mind about freelancing, then maybe it’s just not for you. Don’t quit your day job.

Image by Amarand Agasi via Flickr

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