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Should you quit your job to freelance?
Should you quit your job to start freelancing?
Probably not.
Usually, you shouldn’t turn your back on a steady paycheck and maybe other benefits like health insurance and retirement to start freelancing. There are some circumstances where that’s reasonable. But those cases are limited.
Most people who quit to freelance are likely to get a real rude awakening. Doubt me and do it, and it could possibly one of the worst decisions you make.
That may sound shocking coming from me because if you’ve been around, you know what I’m about. You know I’m freelance to the bone. If this is our first encounter — I’m diehard freelance.
And I’m shameless — sometimes relentless — about encouraging others to freelance too.
But that doesn’t mean I think anyone should just quit a job for an opportunity.
To be absolutely clear, I’m not saying the goal shouldn’t be quit your job. Once your business is up, running, and can cover your finances, by all means, clock out and collect your last check.
But I’m saying don’t quit your job to start.
When you’re at the stage where you have a job and an idea. Most of the time, it’s best to keep the job.