Have you ever wondered how someone transitions from a stable full-time job to a freelancing career such as becoming a freelance digital marketer?
Well, my freelancing journey began with a side gig that eventually led me to becoming a self-employed freelance digital marketer. I’ve often been asked about my journey, so let me take you through the twists and turns that brought me here.
The Beginning: A Side Gig in the Philippines
It all started when I was working as a full-time Content Manager in the Philippines. I had a decent job, but like many young professionals, I wanted more. I wanted to earn extra income to enjoy life to the fullest. That’s when I got offered a side gig as a copywriter for an SEO agency in the Philippines. This was my first taste of freelancing, and I was excited to explore this new avenue.
However, I didn’t immediately make the leap into full-time freelancing. I continued juggling my full-time job with other freelance gigs for several years, all the way up to 2015. This time it was not just writing gigs but also online marketing, social media, website development and search engine optimisation. It was a busy period in my life, but it gave me valuable experience and insights into the world of freelancing.
A Change of Scenery: Moving to Germany
In 2016, I decided to take a leap of faith and move to Germany. My primary goal was to improve my language skills and, ideally, attend one of the country’s prestigious universities. I had dreams of studying International Business, but fate had other plans for me.
Shortly after my move, I faced personal challenges as my relationship ended, and the world was hit by a pandemic. These unexpected setbacks tested my resilience and adaptability. I had to rethink my plans and find a new path forward in a foreign country.
Embracing Freelancing: A Bold Decision
By 2021, I had come to terms with the reality that my dream of attending a German university or working for a German company was not as achievable as I had hoped. The strict hiring processes and education requirements in Germany made it a daunting challenge.
Determined not to let setbacks define my future, I made a bold decision: if I couldn’t pursue International Business in the traditional way, I would create my own business. I decided to become self-employed and embrace freelancing as a means to build my career and income.
Thriving as a Freelancer: Two Years In
Now, two years have passed since I made that pivotal decision, and I can proudly say that I’m thriving as a freelance digital marketer. My journey from a full-time Content Manager to an independent digital marketing contractor has been a rollercoaster ride filled with learning experiences and growth.
I’ve discovered that freelancing provides me with the flexibility, independence, and financial stability I craved. It has allowed me to pursue my passion for all things digital, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with exciting clients from around the world.
While my path to becoming a freelance digital marketer may not have been a straight line, it has been a rewarding one. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, when life throws unexpected challenges your way, it’s an opportunity to forge your own path and create the life and career you desire.
So, if you’re considering freelancing or making a career change, remember that your journey may not follow a traditional route, but with determination and resilience, you can find success and satisfaction in freelancing, just as I have.