How to Deal With Frustration as a Freelancer

Freelance writing is an amazing career path. However, it can also be incredibly frustrating, especially when you put a lot of time and effort into your work, only to be ignored or rejected.

Frustration is often the reason why so many freelancers decide to do something else, giving up on their dreams. Adding to the frustration is stress from lack of work. Facing the feast or famine times can be hard on anyone.

So, what are some of the common frustrations that affect a freelancer? Find out below!

4 Common Frustrations Freelance Writers Experience

Every freelancer's experience is different, but there are common situations that cause stress and frustration.

Your Pitches Are Falling on Deaf Ears

Nothing is more discouraging than researching, putting a lot of effort into a GREAT pitch only for it to be ignored. Discouragement suddenly can turn into anger, making you wonder what you are doing wrong and why you’re even trying.

You're Writing About Things You Don't Like

Writing about things you are not passionate about makes it difficult to find the motivation to write. Plus, a lack of motivation can make you second-guess why you’re writing at all.

You Can't Convince Clients to Pay You What You're Worth

One of the most frustrating aspects of being a freelance writer is getting paid. Clients tend to ask you to charge them hourly simply because they think writing content only takes a few hours — which it doesn’t.

You Don't Know Where to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

A simple google search will lead you to job boards or freelancing websites where you “bid” for a job. Sometimes, you get lucky and find yourself on LinkedIn, but you have no idea what to do while there.

Related: How to Send the Best Cold Email Pitches and Win Freelance Gigs (+ a Free Guide!)

How to Beat Freelance Frustration

Now that you know some of the causes behind freelance frustrations, let's talk about how you can beat them.

Focus on the Big Picture

Why did you decide to become a freelancer? Why did you choose to start your own remote business? Focusing on the why will help you push through the frustration.

Join a Freelance Writing Group on Social Media

Joining freelance writer groups is so helpful! It provides an opportunity to connect with other freelancers and gain insight from those who have gone through similar experiences.

Keep Working on Your Portfolio

Produce well-crafted, thought out, and researched articles and put them on your website. You want to keep your freelance writing portfolio bulging with shiny pieces that demonstrate what you can do.

Reposition Your Business

Repositioning yourself takes time, but it is worth it to beat frustration. Try retargeting yourself in a different market or changing your niche. Networking can be a huge help during this process.

Check out this guide on how to tackle networking for some tips.

Don't Forget About Self-Care

Practicing self-care as a freelance writer is important. These tips will help you get started!

Channel your Creative Energy

Get away from your desk for a simple break and channel or build some creative energy. Try knitting, painting, or another activity that helps keep the creative juices flowing.

Read — Like A Lot

The more you read, the better your vocabulary becomes. In addition, you work on your context clues, comprehension, and much more.

Related: 9 Powerful Books to Grow Your Freelance Business in 2022

Reward Yourself

Maybe you reached a milestone, accomplished a simple goal, or got out of bed. Reward yourself. Why? It keeps you motivated, and hey, a win is a win.

Parting Thoughts

When it comes to beating frustration as a freelancer, think about your “why.” Remember all the reasons you decided to become a freelancer and refocus on those goals. Stress and frustration will come and go, but how you handle them helps you become the freelance writer you dreamed of being.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like these guides on how to reduce stress as a freelancer and positive ways to deal with rejection.

About the Author

Christina (@christina_write) is a freelance writer based in France, who offers ghostwriting, copywriting, article writing, and more. You can find more about Christina at quillsandtypewriters.com.