Freelancing is often seen as the ultimate dream—working in your pyjamas, sipping coffee at your desk, and being your own boss. But while it has its perks, freelancing can also feel incredibly isolating. Unlike traditional workplaces, where colleagues are just a desk or Slack message away, freelancers often work solo. There’s no office buzz, no brainstorming sessions, and no team to grab lunch with when you need a break. And when things get tough—like when a client ghosts you, projects dry up, or imposter syndrome kicks in—it can be hard to find someone who truly understands what you’re going through.
Going from working in an office and going to school to being on my own day after day was a massive adjustment for me when I started freelancing. I felt lonely and I felt alone. This is where having a freelance support community can make all the difference.
Freelancing Doesn’t Have to Be Lonely
When I first started freelancing, I didn’t know who to turn to. My family and friends were supportive, but they didn’t really get it. They didn’t understand why I couldn’t just “get a real job” when business was slow or why setting my own rates was so nerve-wracking.
One of the best things I initially did was joining a professional association for freelancers. Initially, it was fantastic. I met some great freelancers who have become lifelong friends (and incredibly supportive colleagues). Despite loving being part of the organization, I didn’t always feel like the advice was relevant to my situation. (That organization no longer exists.)
What made the biggest difference for me was finding smaller, tight-knit communities of freelancers who shared similar challenges, goals, and experiences. These weren’t just places to vent about difficult clients (although there’s definitely a time and place for that!). They became my go-to spaces for support, advice, and professional growth.
Reading their experiences also showed me that I wasn’t alone in the struggles I faced–and I got access to a wide variety of perspectives, which is crucial in determining what worked for me.
Why community matters
- Shared Understanding:
When you’re freelancing, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one dealing with difficult clients, slow months, or self-doubt. A community reminds you that you’re not alone. Other freelancers understand exactly what it’s like to send out pitch after pitch without a response or to wonder if you’re charging enough for your work. Knowing others are in the same boat can be incredibly reassuring—and sometimes, just sharing your struggles with people who “get it” is enough to keep you moving forward. - Support During Tough Times:
Freelancing has its ups and downs. When you’re on a high—signing new clients or hitting your income goals—it’s great to have people who will cheer you on. But when you’re in a slump, a freelance support community can help pull you out of it. They’ll remind you of your worth when you’re doubting yourself and provide practical advice when you’re not sure what your next step should be. Sometimes, all it takes is someone saying, “I’ve been there, and here’s what worked for me” to reignite your motivation. - Professional Development:
Communities are also fantastic for professional growth. Whether it’s learning about new tools, getting tips on how to write a killer proposal, or finding out how others set their rates, there’s always something to learn.I’ve gotten some of my best advice and ideas from community discussions—things I would never have picked up on my own. The best communities share resources, answer questions, and help you level up your skills in ways you didn’t even realize you needed. - Opportunities and Collaboration:
Beyond support and learning, communities can also open doors to new opportunities. Maybe another freelancer needs a subcontractor for a big project or knows someone looking for the exact services you offer. Maybe they want to collaborate on a joint venture or need help in an area you specialize in. Being part of a community isn’t just about taking—it’s about giving, too. The more you share your knowledge and skills, the more you build trust and connections that can lead to exciting collaborations and opportunities.
My experience with freelance communities
For me, being part of a freelance community has been game-changing. While associations gave me a starting point, it was the communities I’ve joined that truly made freelancing feel sustainable. They’ve helped me feel less alone, more confident in my skills, and more capable of navigating the rollercoaster that is freelance life.
When I’ve had tough months, it was my community that reminded me to keep going. When I needed advice about pricing, they helped me figure out what made sense for my business. And when I had a win, they were the first to celebrate with me.
Join a freelance support community
If you’re feeling the isolation of freelancing or you’re craving support from people who understand what it’s like to run a freelance business, you don’t have to go it alone. I’m building a freelance support community designed to give you everything I’ve loved about my own experiences—encouragement, advice, professional development, and opportunities to connect with others who get it.
Joining the waitlist today will give you access to special pricing and benefits when the community launches. I can’t wait to help you find the support and connections you need to thrive in your freelancing journey.
Ready to take the next step?
Sign up for the community waitlist now and be the first to know when we launch. As a thank-you, waitlist members will receive exclusive perks, including discounted rates and early access to community resources.
Freelancing might be a solo gig, but you’re never alone when you’ve got a supportive community by your side. Let’s build something amazing together!
Looking for more tips on a successful freelance writing career? See my other posts:
- How to get comfortable networking as a freelancer
- How to set boundaries with clients
- Why do you want to start freelancing?
If you’re struggling to write about yourself (and what freelancer hasn’t?) check out my guide, filled with tips and hints for writing about yourself and your business, “Words that Attract Clients“. It’s filled with actionable tips and exercises to get you confidently writing about yourself and connect you with your ideal clients. Get your copy today.