What Seneca can teach freelancers about getting started
“The fool, with all his other faults, has this also, he is always getting ready to live.”
If you know me, you know I'm not one to jump feet-first into a new idea.
Sure, I like variety like anyone else, but I often find myself slow to warm up to the unknown.
Call it "potential energy" - it's there, waiting to be used, but it's going to take a few kicks on the bike to get the wheels turning...
This cautious approach to life can be both a blessing and a curse, especially when it comes to pursuing a dream like starting a freelance career.
On one hand, it's important to carefully consider the risks and challenges before making a significant life change.
On the other hand, if we spend too much time in the planning phase, we risk getting stuck in a cycle of perpetual preparation without ever taking action.
The great Stoic philosopher Seneca once wrote, "The fool, with all his other faults, has this also, he is always getting ready to live." This powerful quote serves as a wake-up call for anyone who has been putting off their dreams, waiting for the perfect moment to start.
The truth is, there will never be a perfect time to launch your freelance career. Life is full of uncertainties, and if you keep waiting for the stars to align, you might find yourself waiting forever. As Seneca reminds us, we shouldn't fall into the trap of constantly preparing to live without actually living.
Overcoming Inertia
So, how do we overcome the inertia that keeps us stuck in the planning phase? The key is to start small and build momentum gradually. Just like getting a bike moving, it takes a few kicks to get the wheels turning, but once you're in motion, it becomes easier to keep going.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Set achievable goals: Break down your freelance dream into smaller, manageable tasks. Instead of trying to launch a full-time business overnight, start by taking on a few projects on the side while you're still working your day job.
Embrace imperfection: Don't wait until you have the perfect website, portfolio, or business plan to start. Focus on taking action, even if it means starting with what you have and refining as you go.
Surround yourself with support: Reach out to other freelancers, join online communities, and attend local events related to your niche. Building a supportive network can provide encouragement, advice, and accountability as you navigate the challenges of freelancing.
The Rewards of Taking Action
Remember, every successful freelancer started exactly where you are now. They took a leap of faith, and they figured things out along the way.
They faced challenges, made mistakes, and learned valuable lessons. But they kept going, because they knew that the rewards of freelancing - the freedom, the flexibility, the fulfillment - were worth the risks.
By taking action and building momentum, you'll soon find that your potential energy has transformed into kinetic success. You'll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you stop getting ready to live and start embracing the adventure of freelancing.
As Seneca wisely said, "It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that things are difficult."
Dare to start your freelance journey today, and watch as the challenges give way to a life filled with purpose, passion, and endless possibilities.
Freelance Maxim: Don’t fear the difficulty. Fear the regret that you never tried at all.
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