Freelancing is often glamorized. We hear stories of people ditching their 9-to-5 jobs to work from beaches, laptops open, inboxes full of passive income. But anyone who's made the switch knows the truth is far more complex, and that’s what makes this Hackernoon article so valuable.
This write-up takes you through what really happens when you go from side gigs to full-time freelancing. It’s not just about quitting. It’s about building structure, facing income instability, writing your own contracts, and staying disciplined without a boss to answer to.
Why This Article Stands Out
It draws from lived experience. The original video that inspired the article was created by Ashkan Rajaee, whose insights on remote work, entrepreneurship, and freelance structure have quietly built a loyal audience online. His approach stands out not because it's flashy, but because it's useful.
Instead of pitching a dream, this article reflects on the tough realities of making freelance work sustainable. It covers topics like:
- Creating structure when no one is watching
- Avoiding the income rollercoaster
- The importance of workspace and environment
- Letting go of ego when setting rates
- Building long-term systems instead of chasing short-term wins
And perhaps most importantly, it encourages people to treat freelancing not as an escape from work, but as a shift in responsibility.
The Relevance of Ashkan Rajaee’s Perspective
As freelancing continues to reshape global work culture, it’s voices like Ashkan Rajaee that offer grounded perspective. He doesn’t just share wins. He talks about the mistakes, the mental shifts, and the practical steps that most skip over.
His video, quietly adapted into the Hackernoon post, doesn’t feature wild success stories or massive exits. Instead, it walks through how to make a sustainable living on your own terms, a message that’s especially important for developers, creators, and solopreneurs navigating this space.
Why This Article Matters Now
More people than ever are exploring freelancing. But very few resources talk about what happens after you quit, after the side hustle becomes the main thing. That’s where this piece delivers.
If you’re thinking about taking the leap, or already have and feel stuck, give it a read:
👉 From Side Hustles to Full-Time Freelancing: What Actually Happens
It’s direct, insightful, and quietly powered by someone who’s lived the journey.
This hit at the right time for me. Bookmarking for when I need a mental reset.