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<p><em>Have you been thinking about becoming a freelancer for a while but waiting for everything to be perfect? Many self-employed workers told us that this perfect moment might never happen. You then need to decide to leap and accept the consequences. To help you with that, here are 10 signs you are ready to become a freelancer.</em></p> <p></p> <h3><strong>You do not think you will be an employee all your life</strong></h3> <p>Where do you see yourself three years from now? In five years? Do you see yourself being an employee or a freelancer? Do you believe you will be working for the same company? It is a great starting point if you dream about being a freelancer and think you will not be an employee all your life. Everything you need now is a good game plan, and surround yourself with the right people.</p> <h3><strong>You want to be your own boss</strong></h3> <p>It is possible that you do not get on so well with your boss. It is also possible you feel capable of managing your tasks without being watched. Do you want to become your own boss? If it is the case, it might be another sign that you might be ready to become a freelancer; however, remember that with great powers come great responsibilities!</p> <h3><strong>You are looking for a new challenge</strong></h3> <p>It may be the routine or a desire to try something new. If you feel that you have done everything regarding your job or field of activity, offering your services as a consultant or freelancer could be interesting. When you become a self-employed worker, it is often not boring, and you can wear many hats. You need to find new clients, make follow-ups, negotiate contracts, and send invoices.</p> <h3><strong>You need more freedom and flexibility</strong></h3> <p>Is your life incompatible with the traditional 9 to 5 from Monday to Friday? If it is the case, you likely want to have more control over your schedule. We interviewed many freelancers (interviews that you can find <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/" target="_blank">on Momenteo&rsquo;s blog</a>), and we asked them what they liked the most about their life. Many then answered that it was freedom and flexibility. Some freelancers can decide to work on afternoons or when they are the most productive, while others prefer to have more time with their families.</p> <h3><strong>You want to choose your clients and projects</strong></h3> <p>You might work with clients who do not respect you or that you do not like working with. You might want to get more flexibility regarding your clients or projects. One of the significant advantages of being a freelancer is choosing your clients and projects while respecting your values or needs. If your current customers are a source of frustration, it might be a hint that it is time to become a freelancer.</p> <h3><strong>You wish to work on different projects and different businesses</strong></h3> <p>When you are an employee, you only work for one business most of the time. We answer its needs and goals full-time. When you are a freelancer, and if it is something that interests you, you can decide to work with many businesses or projects simultaneously. Of course, it asks for some organization and coordination, but it can bring change and novelty to your daily routine.</p> <h3><strong>You thought about having an emergency fund</strong></h3> <p>Having some money aside before becoming a freelancer is not mandatory, but it could be lifesaving if it takes you more time than planned to find your first clients or if you are waiting for your payments. Freelance and entrepreneurs should have <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/the-importance-of-an-emergency-fund" target="_blank">an emergency fund</a> to cover all the expenses for three to six months. If something happens or you experience a quiet period, you will avoid a lot of stress by knowing you will be able to pay all the invoices.</p> <h3><strong>You made an appointment with an accountant</strong></h3> <p>Do you know how much money you need if you become a freelancer? Do you know the steps to start your business, or which legal status would be the best for you? Should you charge taxes or choose the quick method of accounting? Unless you are a pro of finances, it could be a great idea to make <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-to-choose-an-accountant-for-your-business" target="_blank">an appointment with an accountant</a> that knows the reality of freelancers and self-employed workers.</p> <h3><strong>You already did a market research</strong></h3> <p>How will you stand out from the competition if you are a graphic designer or a photographer? Do you know which markets you wish to target? Do you know who your ideal client is? Before becoming a freelancer, it could be relevant to do market research. This way, it will be easier to understand the needs of potential clients and <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-do-i-set-my-rate" target="_blank">set your rate</a> in consequence. If needed, you can work with chambers of commerce or local business organizations in your area.</p> <h3><strong>You already have accepted a few contracts</strong></h3> <p>One of the best ways to see if you are fit for freelance is to<a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-to-find-your-first-customers" target="_blank"> find your first clients </a>and accept contracts while continuing to be an employee. Besides having some contacts, you will quickly see how you manage your files and projects. Moreover, you can increase the number of clients and be a full-time freelancer with time. It is a softer transition that will allow you to keep a stable income before you are ready to leap.</p> <p></p> <p>In conclusion, as we just mentioned, you are not obligated to dive headfirst into freelancing. You can start by accepting a few contracts and seeing how it goes. Regarding invoicing, <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/" target="_blank">Momenteo</a> is here to help you whether you have 2 or 543 clients. Good luck!</p>