How to Slowly Replace Your 9-to-5 with Freelancing
Like many, I once believed a 9-to-5 job was the only way to earn a stable income. But deep down, I kept asking myself—Is this really what I want for the rest of my life? Long hours, limited flexibility, and missing out on important moments with my family—it didn’t feel right.
As a mom of two young kids and a daughter to aging parents, I craved more flexibility, more creativity, and financial freedom. That’s when I started exploring freelancing.
Freelancing allows you to work on your own terms—whether it’s offering creative services, writing, virtual assistance, or design work. The best part? You can start earning while still keeping your 9-to-5!
It wasn’t easy at first. I made plenty of mistakes, and there were many nights when I was completely exhausted from my full-time job—only to push through and carve out time for freelancing in the evenings and on weekends.
If you’ve been thinking about freelancing but don’t know where to start, this guide will walk you through the transition—without having to quit your job overnight. Remember, baby steps are all we need to take.
Step 1: Start Freelancing While Still Working Your 9-to-5
The best way to transition is to start small—work on weekends or evenings.
Sign up for freelance platforms like:
Fiverr (best for selling specific services)
Upwork (best for longer contracts)
Contra (commission-free for freelancers)
Step 2: Choose the Right Gigs (Top Freelance Skills That Pay!)
If you're not sure what services to offer, here are in-demand gigs (from Fiverr):
Virtual Assistant (Manage emails, social media, scheduling)
Graphic Designer (Logos, social media posts, branding)
Content Writer (Blog posts, SEO, website copy)
Video Editor (YouTube videos, Instagram reels, TikTok content)
Voice-Over Artist (I hired a Fiverr voice-over artist for my affirmation channel!)
Pinterest Manager (Help businesses grow using Pinterest marketing!)
Website Designer (Create websites on Squarespace, Shopify, or WordPress)
Step 3: Set Realistic Income Goals
How much do you need to make before quitting your 9-to-5?
Example: If your monthly bills are $3,000, start by making at least $500/month freelancing, then scale up.
Use Fiverr’s gig pricing strategy (offer 3 pricing tiers).
Step 4: Scale Your Freelance Business
How to increase your income by:
Raising prices as you gain experience
Offering add-ons or premium services
Taking on retainer clients for consistent income
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step!
Replacing your 9-to-5 with freelancing doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step brings you closer to financial freedom. Set realistic freelance income goals before quitting your job—start today, keep learning, and trust the process!
Want to start freelancing? Sign up for Fiverr and create your first gig today!
Drop a comment—what’s one skill you’d love to turn into a freelance career?