Navigating Freelance Challenges: Insights for Video Editors
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Freelancing
Lately, I’ve been feeling like I’m just going through the motions in my freelance video editing journey:
- Reach out to a streamer via email or Discord ✉️
- Await their response 🔔
- Present my rates 💲
- Offer a trial run 🕒
- Hear "I can't afford an editor" or get ghosted 👻
This cycle can be incredibly disheartening.
Since starting my freelance career in November, I have worked with six clients. Three of them have returned for additional edits, and currently, I have one recurring client. While this isn't the level of success I envisioned, can it truly be classified as a failure?
Section 1.1: Redefining Success
I do have a clear goal for my freelancing: to earn a sustainable income. This ambition is perfectly valid, but I must be cautious not to let it define my worth as a freelancer.
It's easy to fall into the trap of measuring success solely by financial gain. Freelancing often involves more challenges, risks, and uncertainties compared to traditional 9-to-5 jobs. There are no guaranteed paychecks every two weeks or set quotas; everything falls on your shoulders. Starting from scratch can be tough, especially when you have no online presence, which is still the case for me.
In terms of freelancing, success should be gauged by your growth—ANY form of growth. Small victories accumulate over time. Completing an order = Success ✔️ Updating my portfolio = Success ✔️ Reaching out to potential clients = Success ✔️ Spending 30 minutes learning a new technique = Success ✔️
While achieving a livable income is a valuable objective, it’s essential to recognize that it’s a long-term aspiration. The real measure of success lies in the actions I take to achieve that goal, rather than the goal itself. Thus, short-term goals are incredibly beneficial. The shorter, the better!
Section 1.2: Setting Short-Term Goals
The most effective approach for me—and for any novice freelancer—is to regularly assess and refine my strategy. Ideally, I dedicate a few hours every two weeks or monthly for this purpose.
To begin, I list all the essential components of my freelance business, which for me includes:
- Portfolio 📁
- Rates 💲
- Clients 👫
- Communication 🗣
- Outreach 🌐
It's crucial to reevaluate what I consider ideal. Am I targeting the right clients? Are my rates fair (for both myself and my clients)? Does my portfolio align with the type of clientele I’m aiming to attract? These are the kinds of questions I need to ask myself.
Finding a 9-to-5
While I'd love for my creative pursuits to fully support me, that's not the reality right now. Placing such pressure on my fledgling freelance career isn't wise. Building my business gradually while also seeking part-time or full-time employment is the most sensible path forward.
Sometimes, pursuing your dreams doesn’t mean becoming wildly successful or a digital nomad, despite what social media may portray.
I hope this resonates with anyone who has taken the time to read my reflections.
Willow Fae
Chapter 2: Overcoming Freelance Hurdles
In the video "5 Reasons You're FAILING as a Freelance Writer," the creator discusses common pitfalls that freelancers encounter. It highlights the importance of understanding the freelance landscape and adapting strategies to overcome these challenges.
The video "UPDATE: My Video Production Company Is FAILING" provides a candid look at the struggles faced by a video production company, emphasizing the necessity of adaptability and resilience in the face of setbacks.