Taking a leap of faith to start a career in freelancing is daunting, but Career Contessa shares how one freelancer survived the dark days.
Last Friday was a tough day.
I was in the kind of mood that’s hard to snap out of. I found myself falling victim to the stress and anxieties that anyone freelancing or “in-between” jobs can relate to. In order to remain being honest about every element of my current situation, I think it’s important to talk about the dark days that come as a result of switching jobs or taking a leap of faith. If you are unhappy in your job and thinking of making a change—stay with me—don’t doubt your decision! Your happinessrequires taking risks and it will pay off if you plan for it. The point is that you are bound to have rough days during a transition (this also is true for anyone with a full-time job), and your success lies in how you handle them.
My latest mood swing came as a result of another potential job opportunity falling through the cracks, coupled with the reality that I may have to take on some odd jobs to get through this period of time. Although I’ve had some great freelance gigs recently (including working at NIKE Training Club in Austin, Texas), they seem to pass in a flash. Freelance means part-time, which means temporary, which means HUSTLIN’ for work more than I’ve ever had to in the past. I guess I’ve been living in a bit of a dream world in which when one job ends, another will come, and my connections will always be able to bring me new opportunities.
When I write it out, it sounds totally ridiculous! I quit my job before I had anything lined up. What did I expect!? If I’m going to be really picky about my next move, it’s going to take time to find something I love. Life is rife with sacrifice and there’s always a trade off. I know all of this—yet still I fell into a funk.
I actually believe that it’s important to allow yourself to be sad once in a while. Allow yourself to feel the emotion—but just for a day. After that, you’ve got to change the channel. In the past (like when I moved to L.A. with no job) I’d feel sorry for myself for days at a time. I’ve learned that this behavior is detrimental. One day feeling stressed out, sad and anxious turns into another day wasted.
The best way to climb out of a hole? Identify your emotional triggers. Figure out the root of your stressors and pain. Why are you feeling like this and how will you solve the problem?
Are you down on yourself because you’ve applied for a million jobs and have only gotten rejections? You are not the problem and you are not alone. It’s harshly competitive out there, so you have to find a way to stand out or get “in” with recruiters. Have you been reaching out to people with jobs you admire? Have you made time for the hobbies you love or tried something new? You never know when you might meet someone that could turn things around for you! I believe that face-to-face interaction is the best way to make an impression and get a referral.
In my case, I freaked out when I realized that I didn’t have many jobs or interviews lined up for November. It hit me that this was the “slow season” for most of my clients and I wouldn’t be able to count on much of the previous work I’d been getting. But why had I suddenly realized how light my workload had become…? I was focusing only on the work in front of me in the short-term, and not planning for the future or continuing to network. I had stopped scheduling informational interviews, I hadn’t followed up with my mentors, I didn’t complete my writing portfolio and I wasn’t keeping my friends updated. I also was holing myself away in my apartment, working in my PJs and being a total sloth! (Obviously a recipe for disaster).
After recognizing my shortcomings, I began chipping away at my “to-dos.” By recommitting to a routine and following the career tips that have worked so well for me in the past, I’ve already secured one new job and have two new prospects on the table!
I also made time for fun over the weekend—making sure to dance and be creative—without focusing on my stressors. I know it’s cliché, but laughter is truly the best medicine! If you’re feeling sad or depressed, figure out what makes you laugh and hold onto it. Put your phone down and focus on surrounding yourself with supportive people and creating memorable experiences.
To summarize (and wrap this up), I’ve realized that…
- I feel my best self when I’m busy and productive.
- I’m happiest when surrounded by people I admire and make me laugh.
- Negative thoughts = wasted time // Optimism = productivity and opportunity!
You can get rid of a bad attitude by analyzing your behavior and making an effort to make change and be better. Replace the word “dream” with the word “goal.” Take advantage of the benefits of a career transition (having a flexible schedule and working from home) and realize that with unpredictability comes excitement.
We all get a chance to mold our own path in this crazy game of life—what mood will you choose? What moves will you make?