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I learned that I have enough skills to make meaningful things for other people. I have been a hobbyist programmer all my life. This year I realized I wanted t
by japhyr 14y ago
I learned that I have enough skills to make meaningful things for other people.
I have been a hobbyist programmer all my life. This year I realized I wanted to use my skills to build things that are actually used by others. I accepted a freelance position that came my way, and I wish I had looked for this kind of work years ago. I see now, that I could have as much technical work as I care to take on.
If you are thinking of freelancing and have never tried it, take a chance. Don't quit your day job, but take on a side project. Most of us here have the skills to do at least some freelance work.
- shepbook 14y agoI had this same kind of experience. I taught myself Rails in about a month and then joined a Startup Weekend event. It made me realize just how much I _could_ do. I too went the "freelance" route. I didn't have the experience of taking it on as a "side project". I was fired from my job and, rather than do the job search grind, I found it easier and better to do contract work on a "freelance" basis. I'm still figuring it all out, but the important part is that I've learned just how valuable and capable I am. All it took was making that leap and pushing myself outside my comfort zone. Unlike most people, it seems, I actually do suggest quitting your job. Get a handful of months of savings (if possible) first, and then make the jump. It's hard work, but it's worth it.