Are you bogged down by the belief that you should do certain things as a freelancer? Let’s bust those myths! From ignoring 90-day payment terms to not working for exposure, this episode is all about liberating your freelance life.
Listen to the podcast episode below, watch it on Youtube, or scroll down for the summary!
Dumping the Freelancer ‘Shoulds’
Are you bogged down by the belief that you should do certain things as a freelancer? Let’s bust those myths! From ignoring 90-day payment terms to not working for exposure, this episode is all about liberating your freelance life.
Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!
Welcome back to another edition of The Freelancer’s Tea Break, where I spill the tea on all things freelance while you sip yours! This week, we’re tackling the dreaded “shoulds”—all those outdated, unnecessary, or downright ridiculous expectations that freelancers feel pressured to follow. But guess what? You don’t have to! Let’s bust some myths and set you free in 2025.
Freelance “Shoulds” You Can Drop Immediately
1. I Should Accept Their Payment Terms
Nope. If a client expects you to wait 90 days to get paid, that’s their problem, not yours. Most businesses pay employees within 30 days—why should freelancers be any different? Push for fairer terms, and check out the Small Business Commissioner’s guidelines for support.
2. I Should Offer Discounts
Just because a potential client asks for a discount doesn’t mean you have to give one. Instead of lowering your rates, adjust the scope of work to fit their budget. Value your time, skills, and experience—you don’t need to justify your prices.
3. I Should Work for Exposure
Unless exposure pays your bills (spoiler: it doesn’t), working for free isn’t a necessity. The only exception? Mutually beneficial collaborations where everyone involved gains something tangible, like portfolio pieces.
4. I Should Say Yes to “Quick” Tasks
“Can you just…” is a slippery slope. A five-minute favour is rarely just five minutes. Protect your time by setting clear boundaries—either charge for it or let them know what priority it will replace.
5. I Should Be on Every Social Media Platform
Unless your ideal clients are actually on every platform, you don’t need to be. Focus your energy where it makes the most impact and where engagement feels natural for you.
6. I Should Love Networking
Networking is great, but it’s not the only way to grow your business. If you thrive in social settings, go for it. If you’d rather poke your own eye out with a blunt pencil, there are other ways to build relationships—online, through referrals, or by letting your work speak for itself.
7. I Should Reply to Emails Immediately
Urgency is a client’s problem, not yours. Set expectations around response times and stick to them. You are not a 24/7 customer service bot.
8. I Should Use WhatsApp for Business
Mixing business and personal messaging can be a nightmare. If WhatsApp isn’t for you, set up an alternative like Slack or email. Your boundaries matter.
9. I Should Say Yes to Everything
Freelancing doesn’t mean being on call 24/7. It’s okay to tell clients you’re booked and offer them a start date in a few weeks. A waiting list can even make you look more in demand!
10. I Should Use AI
AI can be a helpful tool, but it’s not compulsory. If it fits into your workflow, great. If not, don’t force it. The key is understanding how it impacts your industry so you can make informed choices.
Time to Ditch the “Shoulds”!
What unnecessary “shoulds” have you been holding onto? Are there any that you’re finally ready to let go of in 2025? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your freelance rebellions!
Until next time, have a brilliant freelance week!
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