It’s been a couple of years since I left my 9-to-5. Although I have no regrets about starting my own freelance business, there are days when I wonder how life would have still have been like if I had remained in my 9-to-5. For many people, transitioning from a 9-to-5 to being a freelancer can be scary. There are various reasons for this. But the question is, would remaining in your 9-to-5 make you happy? Is this something that you would be willing to do for the rest of your life? Are freelancers happy?

Many freelancers are enjoying being able to run their own businesses from the comfort of their homes and being in control of their finances. They love being able to travel whenever they want and still be able to catch up on work. However, majority of freelancers/self-employed work on their own at home, which can be very quite and lonely. If you need a buzzing office environment to work, the whole idea of doing your own thing may not be for you just yet.

Although I can’t speak for all the freelancers out there, I can say from my experience that I am a lot happier than I was in my 9-5. Here are some of the reasons why –

Freelancers are happy because they have flexible schedules

I have more time to do what I want. I can work day or night. I do have deadlines for my clients, but I am not tied to fixed schedules. I don’t have opening hours nor closing hours. I can work at anytime and anywhere, which is the best part of being a freelancer. You actually get to work in more relaxed conditions.

Freelancers are happy because they can determine their income

Traditional workers have to work extremely hard in order to earn a promotion that will give them a raise in their paycheck. And if you’ve ever worked at a 9-to-5 that can take years to attain.

The good news is that freelancers don’t ever have to worry about facing that problem. If I want to raise my income, I raise my rates, develop new income streams or pitch to more potential clients. The level of my income is in my hands, kind of. I can choose to earn as much as I want, so long as I put in the work and market my services.

Freelancers are happy because they get to spend more time with their loved ones

Now this is a biggie for me. I remember when I was working in my 9-to-5, and I remember working very late. I even on some weekends and bank holidays. Now that I am a mum, I can’t imagine working those hours. It just won’t work. I respect people who are happy to work long hours and all, but it is just not a lifestyle I can afford right now.

With my business, I get to enjoy the opportunity to be with my family and still keep the business up and running.

Freelancers are happy because they can positively impact others

Most freelancers are mentors to a host of other upcoming freelancers. As they teach people how to start and run their own businesses, they begin to impact in the lives of those people. There’s nothing as fulfilling as being able to touch the lives of people who will better their own world. It is one of the best feelings ever!

Are you happy with your job/business? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.