The Truth About Freelancing That They Dont Talk About

Freelancing looks shiny from the outside. You see posts about working on the beach, sleeping in on Mondays, and being your own boss.

While those things can happen, they’re just one side of the story. Let’s talk about the other side. The one most people don’t post about.

The one that happens behind the scenes.

Because if you’re considering freelancing or already in it, you deserve to know the full picture not just the highlight reel.

What is freelancing, really?

Freelancing means you work independently. You offer services to clients without being tied to a single employer. You can have one client or many. You choose your hours, your rates, and the kind of work you want to take on.

Most freelancers work online today. Writers, designers, virtual assistants, developers, consultants—you name it. If you have a skill, there’s a good chance someone is looking for it.

Sounds flexible, right? And it is.

But...

Here’s what they don’t tell you.

1. There’s no HR to back you up.

When you're working remotely or as a freelancer, there’s no one to report a problem to. If a client crosses boundaries, delays payments, or ghosts you altogether, you’re on your own. You have to create your own systems, set your own boundaries, and stand up for yourself.

2. No health benefits or HMO.

Unless you pay for it yourself, you won’t have company-covered healthcare. No paid leaves. No sick days. No official holidays. That’s why many freelancers take on extra gigs to cover these gaps or build a cushion.

3. You’ll do your own taxes.

Yes, freelancing gives you more freedom, but it also means handling the less exciting parts. Like filing your taxes, budgeting, tracking income, and keeping receipts. Nobody teaches this. You either learn as you go or get a professional to help you out.

4. Ghosting is real.

One day you’re exchanging messages with a potential client. The next day? Silence. It happens more than people admit. Some projects get paused forever. Some clients disappear after you submit your work. It’s not personal, it’s just part of the game.

5. Chasing payments is exhausting.

Let’s be honest. One of the most draining things about freelancing is waiting to get paid. Following up. Sending reminders. Wondering if they’ll ever send the payment. Some freelancers end up accepting this as part of the job. 

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

So why still freelance?

Because even with all that, freelancing can change your life.

You can work from anywhere. Set your own pace. Work with clients across the world.

Learn multiple skills. Build something of your own. That kind of freedom doesn’t come easy, but when it works, it’s powerful.

Here’s how to make it work better for you.

Know your worth. Then communicate it.

Set a rate that makes sense for your skills and experience. If a client can’t afford you, it’s okay to say no. Not every opportunity is meant for you. You’ll thank yourself later.

Negotiate wisely. Ask about the full scope of the project, the timeline, expectations, and revisions. Make everything clear before you start. That way, you’re not guessing along the way.

Stop chasing payments. Ask for half or ahead.

This is a big one. If you're always waiting for the client to pay after you deliver everything, you’re setting yourself up for stress.

Here’s a better way: ask for 50% upfront, or full payment before delivery, especially if it’s a small project.

For ongoing work, set a schedule. It can be weekly, biweekly, or monthly and have it in writing.

I created the course Get Paid Fairly & On Time: A Practical System for Freelancers. This is where I share how I created a payment system for my virtual assistant business that ensures how I get paid in advance. I share beginner friendly and practical ways and tools to use.

Build relationships, not just transactions.

Clients are people too. When you treat them with respect, communicate clearly, and deliver value, they remember you. It’s how you turn a one-time gig into a long-term partnership.

When a client trusts you, they’ll pay in advance. They’ll refer you to others. They’ll want you on their team, even if you’re not an employee.

And that’s the sweet spot.

Final thoughts

Freelancing is not always as glamorous as social media makes it look. There are tough days, slow months, and unexpected challenges.

But it can also be your path to independence. Your way of building a career on your own terms. Your gateway to discovering what you're really capable of.

You just have to go in with open eyes.

Know the game.

Set your boundaries.

Build your systems and never be afraid to ask for what you’re worth.

You’ve got this.

I write to connect, reflect, uplift and empower fellow freelancers. If you found value in this piece, consider supporting this blog.

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