Written by : Cassandra Anne (Freelance writer at Effortsly.com)
Hey there. I'm sure you are reading this after scrolling through social media, seeing people living their best lives, seeing how they can afford their desired cars, bungalows, luxury good or maybe you're right here at this moment, desiring to improve your quality of life and wondering, what’s the secret to get there?
Before the secret is officially reveal, I would need you to take a moment and pause. Take all the time you need and reflect on what your definition of financial freedom is. According to Moneyfit.org, financial freedom means having enough financial resources to pay for an individual's living expenses, and the ability to afford the life goals one desires at anytime, anywhere. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all definition. It is undeniable that people go through different phases of life, so for some, it might mean finally being able to pay off their school loans/debts, for others, it might mean the ability to travel to as many countries as possible, the ability to buy luxury goods, and the list goes on.
At this moment, you might be wondering why defining your own financial freedom even matters. The reason is simple: you will be laser-focused on your why which serves as a catalyst for you to strive towards it. Don’t believe me? Let me share with you my humble experience of being financially free at the age of 18.
First of all, my definition of financial freedom meant not asking nor taking allowance from my parents. This means that if I were to buy or spend anything, it should be within my own means and capability. I was studying at that time and all I could think of was working part-time jobs. My first job was working as a waitress and yes, studying and working were tiring but because I was so determined not to burden my parents, it became bearable as time went by. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my younger self for not giving up as my grind didn’t go unnoticed. After a few months of working, I was spotted and referred to as a telemarketer and that was the first time I came across the concept of, freelancing.
It was something new, as I didn’t know I was able to work in the comfort of my home while earning. As much as I would love to stay in my bubble, I am well aware that growth will never come from one's comfort zone. I then decided to be brave for once and took this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which not only provided me flexibility in my time, but also widened my horizon to the possibilities out there. For your reference, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), freelancers are considered self-employed individuals. They are individuals who work for specific tasks for clients without committing to full-time employment. Most freelance jobs available focus on what you can offer to clients such as your skills, creativity, services, and many more.
So right now, what you need the most is the eagerness to learn and explore something new. I believe everyone is good at something so look within yourself, the answer is right there. As the saying goes, “never try, never know,” you might end up stumbling across something you didn’t know you were passionate or good at. I sincerely hope that you give freelancing a try, and as Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle.”