Have you ever dreamt of being a freelancer? Let’s reflect on our childhood heroes, for example, Sherlock Holmes or James Herriot. They had remarkable skills and were honored by everyone. One day, Robert Vlach, the author of this book, realized that his job in consulting granted him a unique opportunity to express himself and be independent.

For the same reason, up to 27% of U.S. workers make a living working as freelancers. But we shouldn’t paint too rosy a picture of freelancing. Due to its challenges, it’s more complicated than it seems at first sight, since you need to work out a detailed plan and stick to it. The term “freelancer” dates back to the Walter Scott era, as he used it in Ivanhoe. Nowadays, “freelancer” typically means working for oneself, but many self-employed people go beyond that role, managing teams or running full-fledged businesses.

For instance, the Freelancers Union in the U.S. considers anyone earning supplemental income a freelancer. Whereas British IPSE, The Self-Employment Association, stated that a freelancer is a self-employed professional without subordinates.

Personal capital is a valuable asset for those who want to be freelancers. In most cases, freelancers start their path with experience under their belt and hard skills. Unlike launching a business, you don’t need any large-scale investments. But don’t underestimate the importance of knowledge before joining freelance platforms; otherwise, you risk becoming an underpaid worker. Analyze the dynamic market and your strengths, then everything will work out. If you feel that you are a self-disciplined and open-minded person with a high level of expertise, embrace your chance to be independent.

If you are too afraid to start, there is good news for you! Freelancers are not necessarily solo workers. Sometimes, gathering in groups and building a network of professionals to create various projects may be quite efficient. A great example of such a strategy is the well-known “Hollywood model.” Dozens of film industry experts assemble in groups to shoot a new masterpiece.