5 Amazing Reasons to Start Freelance Writing in 2023

Have you been thinking about becoming a freelance writer? Maybe it's a newly formed idea that's taken root over the last few weeks. Maybe you've been going back and forth for a while now. Whether you've been considering freelance writing full-time or simply starting a side hustle, 2023 is the perfect time to take it from an idea to a living, breathing thing.

Here's why you should start freelance writing in 2023.

Freelance Writers are Their Own Boss

One of the best things about becoming a freelance writer is that you are your own boss.

There are so many benefits to being your own boss, including being 100% in charge of everything that goes on in your freelance writing business.

From the work you take on to setting your schedule, how much you charge to where you work, and everything in between, you are entirely independent.

That independence gives you the ability to set the direction for your freelance writing business. You're not bogged down by expectations or deadlines set forth by someone else. In essence, becoming a freelance writer provides the freedom so many crave.

Freelance Writers are In Charge of Their Schedule

As noted above, freelance writers have total control over when they work. This is ideal because not everyone conforms to the standard 9-5 work hours — and for good reason! Everyone works differently, and more importantly, not everyone feels productive working within this set period of hours.

The sad truth is that only about one-third of working adults have a body rhythm that works with a 9-5 schedule. That means that two-thirds of people are going to work sleep-deprived, which leaves them feeling burnt out, grumpy, and just dang miserable. No wonder so many people are looking for alternatives to a traditional career path!

Becoming a freelance writer means you can develop a work schedule around your most productive hours and/or events happening in your life. As an added bonus, you can take a nap whenever you see fit!

Freelance Writers Can Work From Anywhere

The ability to work from anywhere is honestly one of the most appealing benefits of becoming a freelance writer. So many of us have dreams of traveling, and freelance writing full-time can make that happen. The only things you need are a laptop and an internet connection, and you're all set.

Choosing to start freelance writing is also ideal for people who hate long commutes. Full disclosure, this was one of the reasons I chose to leave my job to pursue freelance writing full-time. Spending 45+ minutes traveling to work (one way) seemed like such a waste. At a minimum, I was losing a minimum of 7 1/2 hours to travel each week. While I loved listening to podcasts during my commute, I knew my time would be better spent on growing my existing freelance writing business.

Now that I work from home full-time, my day is so much more productive. There's no time wasted traveling to and from the office. Starting my workday is as simple as walking down the hall. This is something so many freelancers appreciate about starting a freelance writing business.

When you need a change of scenery, head to your favorite coffee shop or the local library. Or, you know, live that digital nomad life you're dreaming about.

Boost Your Income as a Freelance Writer

This is kind of a no-brainer, but it still needs to be said; one of the biggest advantages to becoming a freelance writer is the money. People all over the world have begun starting side hustles to earn additional income. Whether you're freelance writing part-time or have taken the leap to freelance full-time, freelance writing is a prime opportunity to boost your income.

In fact, there's really no cap on how much money you can make as a freelance writer. At a “normal” job, you'd (ideally) get at least a small raise each year, but that's it. Unless you receive a promotion or work off a commission structure, your income can be pretty limited. How much you make as a freelance writer is dictated primarily by two things: your rates and how much work you take on.

Becoming a Freelance Writer Provides Job Security

Okay, I know what you're thinking. “Steady work provides security.” Sure, in theory.

Yes, your income as a freelance writer depends on how much work you have each month, but that doesn't make it less secure. This article by TCK Publishing says it best:

“If your job ends, or you get laid off, or you get fired, you’ve suddenly lost 100% of your income. When one of a freelance clients winds down, that’s a loss of 10-20% of your income. And you get it back as soon as you sign a new client. That’s real job security in a way that relying on a boss to sign your checks doesn’t offer.”

While taking the leap into freelancing can be a little scary, especially if you're quitting your 9-5 job, it will be worth the control you gain over your career. You just have to be willing to put in the effort to ensure work to find clients and maintain a steady workload.

Conclusion

Every freelance writer has their own “origin story” or “ah-ha moment” when they knew freelance writing was the path they wanted to take.

I personally never expected to turn my side hustle into a full-time career, but here I am. After a few failed attempts to start, I made my love for writing and creating content into a career. The fact that I have the freedom to work when and where I want, make a great income, and have complete control over my career is just icing on the cake.

Still not sure if becoming a freelance writer is right for you? Here are a few reasons it might just be:

• You love writing and storytelling
• You're willing to research and learn about new topics
• You enjoy putting your own spin on topics people are already talking about
• You don't believe a traditional career path fits your work style
• You're interested in learning new writing skills

If you said yes to any of the following, why not just give it a shot? It might just be the best decision you ever make!

I hope this article inspired you to take the first step on your freelance journey. If so, you may want to check out these guides on how to get started as a freelance writer (no experience required) and how to create a freelance writer website and portfolio.