From hobby, to freelance, to self-employed

When I first entered the freelance space, I was a college student with little to no experience in an industry that I thought “couldn’t be that hard.” I figured, “hey, if I spend all of my time on social media, I bet I could make money doing it for other people!” (Spoiler 1: the industry can, in fact, be that hard.) (Spoiler 2: I no longer consider myself a social media marketer) 

As I delved deeper into the world of freelancing, I learned so much! I took the time to understand my strengths, talents, and passions, gradually uncovering the specific services that set my work apart. It was a transformative period of growth that laid the foundation for everything that my work and brand would go on to become. 

The allure of freedom and flexibility was irresistible, but let's be honest—it wasn't all smooth sailing. From hustling for clients to figuring out how to master time management, I encountered my fair share of challenges that pushed me beyond my comfort zone.  

To truly thrive, I knew I had to step outside my cozy little bubble. I eagerly accepted new opportunities, viewing every client and project as a chance to expand my skill set and knowledge. It wasn't always easy, and there were moments of self-doubt, but I learned the most and grew the quickest when I challenged what I thought I knew. Believe it or not, I often found that I knew more than I thought I did, something that was only realized by never saying no (more on that in a later post). 

Building a strong reputation was critical at every stage of business development. From securing my first client to taking on projects in different time zones, I made it my mission to deliver exceptional work and provide an unforgettable experience for my clients. Over time, positive feedback and word-of-mouth referrals began to pour in, affirming the quality of my services. With dedication and consistent authenticity (two of my brand values), I’ve built a personal and professional reputation that I’m truly proud of.  

Finally, it was time for that pivotal moment when freelancing evolved into something more—a full-time opportunity. Fueled by a growing demand for my work and the realization that I couldn't ignore my true passion any longer, I made the bold decision to fully immerse myself in what I love. It was a mix of excitement, trepidation, and unwavering determination that propelled me forward. 

Let's face it—no goal was ever successfully achieved without its fair share of challenges. The transition from freelancer to full-time work presented its own set of obstacles: learning to allot full days to what was once a free-time filler, maintaining self-discipline, adapting to the individual needs of each new client, and so many more.  But with each hurdle, I learned valuable lessons about adaptability, resilience, and the importance of embracing a growth mindset. These lessons have shaped my future as an entrepreneur and had a significant impact on my personal growth.  

I am immensely grateful for the opportunities, support, and lessons that have come my way. As I look to the future, I'm incredibly excited to continue growing, evolving, and making a difference through my work. I aim to inspire and empower individuals like you to unapologetically achieve your goals. Together, let’s embrace the challenges, make the most of the opportunities, and navigate the road to success as a team.