Fact: Sensitive Freelancers Must Either Suck It Up Or Quit

There are many touchy-touchy feely-feely freelance writers out there. Understandable, because working by yourself in a room, avoiding office politics, is appealing for any introvert. It certainly appeals to me.

However, those who think they will escape the mean old world by freelancing are sorely mistaken. Clients will criticize your writing, sometimes constructively and sometimes not. Some clients can be straight-up manipulative. Of course, you can choose who you work for, but you cannot escape these situations altogether.

If you read writers’ blogs, you’ll understand why writers have a reputation as being introverted and sensitive. The truth is that many of us are. And it is mainly due to personal insecurities, undervaluing ourselves and and our services.

My First Freelance Job

During my very first job, I was asked to rewrite all five articles I’d written. While I remained professional, I will admit that I was somewhat annoyed. I had over delivered in the extreme, and my client still wasn’t happy.

After the job, I realized that I was quick to blame the client. I made myself annoyed. There was no reason to be annoyed.

It is easy to get precious about your writing. To write, you have to open yourself up. It can feel like you are investing part of yourself when you write an article, and thereby you can get personally attached to your writing. They are no longer only criticizing your writing, but also you as a person.

Of course, criticism doesn’t have to be a personal attack. You are not your writing.

You Must Learn Constantly

There are always lessons to learn. You cannot expect your clients to tell you exactly what they want, and I didn’t determine exactly what my first client wanted. It is better to be clear from the start than have to rewrite the entire project.

Criticism is actually an opportunity to grow as a writer, and therefore it should be welcomed. I now ask my clients for criticism at every possible opportunity. This helps me grow, ensures we are on the same page, and practically guarantees that both parties will be happy when the project is complete.

I’ve realized that to be a long-term freelance writer, I must enjoy the job itself. Money cannot be the primary focus. The cold-hearted pursuit of cash drains the pleasure from the most enjoyable of tasks. My primary goal must be to provide a knock-out solution to my clients.

With all that said, you should still set your boundaries — don’t let your clients walk all over you. A self-respecting writer will not only be a happier writer; they’ll have more demand for their services, and they’ll earn more money.