While working for a company and having a steady paycheck has its practical returns, it can be a bit restrictive for a creative person. Freelancing has many benefits and can give blossoming artists a chance to break free of the confines of a nine-to-five job. According to a 2023 study by Upwork Research Institute, freelancers in America contributed a whopping 1.27 trillion to the US economy in annual income!

Whether you want to start freelancing as a side hustle or make it your full time job, here are some benefits to consider:

1. Time Freedom: As a freelancer, you get to work on your time. This is a definite perk and can allow you to design a work schedule that fits your lifestyle! It should also be noted that this requires good self-discipline to stay consistent!

2. Location Freedom: If you’re making your own schedule and don’t have to show up to work at specified location, then you can literally work from anywhere! Many are adopting a nomadic lifestyle and are travelling the world while freelancing.

3. Higher Pay Rates: As a freelancer, you get to set your own rates and these are usually a lot higher than what you would earn working for a company because you are cutting out the middle-man and clients are going to you directly.

4. Creative Freedom: You get to work on projects that excite you and turn down projects that do not! This is such a huge benefit for creatives!

5. Save Money: With no long daily commutes or dress codes to deal with, you can save quite a lot of money on gas, car maintenance and clothing.

6. Freedom to Choose: As a freelancer, you get to make your own rules. You get to choose who to work with and what to work on. If you feel that something isn’t a good fit, you can pass on it!

7. Job Security: Since you are your own boss and not dependent on an employer for your paycheck, you don’t have to worry about layoffs or pay cuts.

I hope this post helped to highlight some of the key benefits of becoming a freelance artist. If you are interested in learning how to brand yourself as an artist and start developing your career, then I encourage you to check out my course Artist As Brand. I created this course specifically to help provide a clear roadmap of how to build a prosperous and unique art business. Here’s to your creative journey!