You might’ve noticed that the BF calendar doesn’t reset at the beginning of the year. (That happens in April and October after we do our self assessments.)
That’s somewhat intentional, but one thing that does happen, is that we kick off the calendar year with skill development. It’s one of those things that’s absolutely critical to creating a viable freelance career that improves your life. (It's almost impossible to charge the
$75/hr or your currency equivalent)that you need to be to compensate for the risk and work of this life.)
For me, it’s not just a month. It’s the core of one of my most important freelance habits.
I'm invest in developing one, maybe two skills every year (I’m doing account based marketing this year). Between research, courses, and reading, that’s kept me growing as freelancer, connected with prospects, and continually able to justify the high rates I charge.
…and when I say “invest”, I mean it.
I’m not quite putting out the 10% of my earnings that some people recommend, but I will say the number has never dropped below $500 (even in that year I only brought in $24K full time). I also have a couple of hours a week set aside on my calendar.
So what about you? Even if it’s not $500 and weekly study, what will your freelance educational habit look like this year?
Megan
This Week’s Recommended Reading