How I increased my income by 300% in 4 years

While you may need to make major life changes, increasing your income is possible.

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key point

• Switching to freelancing can be life-changing, but you may experience growing pains as you figure out what works best for you.
• For many freelancers, reaching their income goals can take years.
• Remember, you may have to make changes, such as finding the right clients, stepping out of your comfort zone, and striving to become an expert in your field.

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My background is in marketing, so I don’t always work as a freelance writer. If you told the younger version of me that one day I would get paid to write, I would laugh. But I’ve been a freelance writer for six years, and it’s been a fun and rewarding job.

When I first started freelancing, I was optimistic but worried about money. My first year as a full-time freelancer was heavy, but my annual income was meager. That’s probably less than what I made when I was a waitress in college.

But most businesses don’t thrive overnight. Learning and growing in a freelance career takes time, and there are bumps along the way. Fortunately, my freelance income has grown significantly over the years, and I feel like I’m finally in a comfortable place.

My financial situation looks very different than it did four years ago. During that time, my income has grown by 300%. This is how I do it.

I work with clients who value me

I have written for many brands over the years. But my work doesn’t always get paid well. Over time, I’ve learned that if I want to increase my revenue, I need to work with the right clients. This means I need to prioritize clients who value me and pay me dearly for my time and help.

As a freelancer, it’s all too easy to stick to a low-paying job because you need to eat, pay rent or mortgage. But it’s important to remember the value you bring.

Achieving your personal finance goals will be difficult if you continue to accept low-paying jobs. Don’t be afraid to look for better opportunities. You may need to set aside time each week to do this while continuing to work for low-wage clients. Otherwise, your income may not change.

I made a schedule and stuck to a routine

As a freelancer, you control your schedule and choose your working hours. But if you don’t work, you don’t make money.

I learned early on that following an established work schedule and routine throughout the work week would do me well, like a typical salaried worker. Doing this ensures that I complete enough projects and stay committed to my growth even when the going gets tough.

I’m also more productive when I know what to expect and follow a routine. I feel like a fixed work time and a fixed schedule helps me continue to meet my income goals.

I’m out of my comfort zone

I also believe stepping out of my comfort zone has helped increase my income by 300%.

Here are four ways I do this:

1. Raise my rates even when I’m nervous about the client’s response.
2. Applying to freelancers that seem beyond my skill level or impossible to get.
3. Network and share writing opportunities with other writers in my field.
4. Reach out to brands I know and love that offer writing services.

Trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone can be difficult and uncomfortable, but doing so can improve your life.

I became an expert in my field

Some freelance writers work in a specific field, while others write on many topics. I took on many projects as a freelancer in my early years. While it’s fun to write so much, I don’t get paid very much – because I’m not considered an expert.

I’ve learned that if I focus on what I’m familiar with, it will benefit my bank account. By focusing primarily on personal finance and travel writing, I was able to make more money and enjoy my job more. This move also helped me attract higher-paying job offers.

If you are a freelancer looking for ways to increase your income, you are not alone. While it can take a lot of work and time, there are steps you can take to grow your business and increase your income.

If you’re going through a rough patch, stay tuned to why you decided to freelance, and don’t be afraid to make small changes that will benefit you. The changes you make will pay off in time.