Prepare for feasts and famines
Almost every SEO freelancer has experienced a feast or famine. One month, you may get multiple high-paying projects; next, the job may be completely dry
This unpredictable performance can be frustrating, and sometimes it can be frightening if you are used to a stable salary.
Please do not panic.
Instead of spending freely in good months, reserve income for slow income. Remember that inconsistency is part of the process and you will build a stable customer pipeline when you gain credibility.
Save six months of income to get you through (if you can)
I really wish I could tell you that I had saved six months before I was full time because this would give me breathing space when I build a client base. I don’t offer this luxury, but I highly recommend anyone who wants a full-time freelancer to do so.
One of the biggest traps is that new freelancers are stuck in the struggle, competing to the bottom, accepting any client in any way, just to keep money coming in.
When you are desperate, you make the wrong decisions. Savings allow you to choose programs and clients that align with your long-term goals rather than scrambling for short-term survival.
The mentality shift is the toughest battle you will face
Freelancing requires spiritual flexibility. The hardest part of this journey is dealing with rejection, uncertainty and comparison.
- Prepare to refuse: Not everyone Customer tone It will land, not every clue will say yes. Today’s “no” does not mean failure, but it just means it is not correct.
- Stop comparing your journey to others: Some freelancers Scale to six digits in one year;The others account for five. Your growth is yours, and success is not always linear.
- Find a mentor or accountability partner: Whether it’s seeking business advice or just motivation, you can turn to huge changes. Be with people who know the journey and can help you stay on track.
- Learn to say no: Not every customer is suitable. Refusing to work consistent with your expertise has lifted you out of the scarcity mindset and allowed you to scale faster.
Develop a financial plan
In addition to savings, you need a financial roadmap to guide you. Without one, you are at risk of charging, overspending, or striving to make ends meet.
First calculate your minimum income. This is the amount of rent/mortgage, groceries, insurance, taxes and other non-negotiable fees you need to pay. Then, consider additional costs such as software, internet and business expenses.
Next, determine how many clients (or projects) you need to replace your salary each month, which is the profit you make after your expenses.
If you don’t have universal healthcare in the U.S. or another country, research your options early and consider monitoring revenue, expenses, and profitability using QuickBooks or simple spreadsheets such as simple spreadsheets.
Luke Carthy This Mozpod plot.
