How to Start a Freelancing Business

The freelance revolution has transformed the global workforce. With over 70 million freelancers in the United States alone and projections suggesting that freelancers will make up the majority of the U.S. workforce by 2027, independent work has moved from the fringes to the mainstream. This shift represents not just a change in how people work, but a fundamental reimagining of career paths and professional identity.

Behind these statistics are millions of individual stories—professionals who have traded traditional employment for the freedom, flexibility, and potential of building their own freelance businesses. Some seek escape from corporate constraints, others pursue passion projects, and many desire the ability to design work around life rather than the reverse. Whatever your motivation, starting a freelance business offers unprecedented opportunities to create a career aligned with your personal and professional goals.

However, the journey from employee to successful freelancer isn’t always straightforward. For every thriving freelance business, countless others struggle with inconsistent income, challenging client relationships, and the complexities of running a business while delivering exceptional work. The difference often lies not in talent or work ethic, but in approaching freelancing as a business from day one—with strategic planning, systems, and a growth mindset.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of building a sustainable freelance business. From defining your services and setting up legal foundations to attracting ideal clients and scaling your operation, you’ll learn the essential elements that transform freelance work from a temporary gig to a thriving business. Whether you’re planning a gradual transition from employment or preparing to leap into full-time freelancing, these strategies will help you build a solid foundation for long-term success.

Defining Your Freelance Business

Before diving into business registrations or client acquisition, clarifying the fundamental elements of your freelance business will save you countless hours of trial and error.

Identifying Your Marketable Skills

The most successful freelance businesses are built at the intersection of three crucial elements: your skills, market demand, and personal enjoyment.

Start with a comprehensive skills assessment:

• • Professional skills from previous employment
  • Technical abilities acquired through education or self-learning
  • “Soft skills” like communication, project management, or client relations
  • Specialized knowledge in specific industries or niches

Evaluate market demand for each skill:

• • Search freelance platforms for similar service providers
  • Check job boards for positions requiring these skills
  • Research industry publications for growing skill needs
  • Analyze competitor services and pricing

Consider personal factors:

• • Which skills do you genuinely enjoy using?
  • What work leaves you feeling energized rather than drained?
  • Which tasks do you find yourself losing track of time while doing?
  • What areas are you motivated to continuously improve in?

The sweet spot for your freelance business lies where these three areas overlap—skills you possess, services clients will pay for, and work you find rewarding.

Choosing a Profitable Niche

While it might seem counterintuitive, narrowing your focus often leads to greater success in freelancing.

Benefits of specialization:

• • Command higher rates as a specialist rather than a generalist
  • Reduce competition by focusing on a specific market segment
  • Streamline your marketing with targeted messaging
  • Build deeper expertise that compounds over time
  • Develop repeatable processes for similar projects

Effective niching strategies:

• • Industry specialization: Focus on clients in specific sectors (healthcare, finance, education)
  • Client type specialization: Serve particular business sizes or types (startups, non-profits, enterprises)
  • Problem specialization: Solve specific challenges (launching products, improving conversion rates)
  • Technical specialization: Master particular tools or platforms (Shopify, WordPress, HubSpot)
  • Audience specialization: Help clients reach specific demographics (Gen Z, luxury consumers, B2B buyers)

Evaluating niche potential:

• • Size of target market (large enough to provide consistent opportunities)
  • Profit potential (ability to support your income goals)
  • Competition levels (saturated vs. underserved)
  • Growth trajectory (expanding, stable, or contracting)
  • Personal connection and expertise in the area

Example niche definitions:

• • “I help SaaS startups create user onboarding sequences that reduce churn”
  • “I design accessible websites for independent healthcare providers”
  • “I write technical documentation for fintech companies”

The more specifically you can define who you serve and what problems you solve, the easier it becomes to position yourself as the obvious choice for your ideal clients.

Crafting Your Service Offerings

With your skills identified and niche selected, define specific service packages that address client needs.

Service development process:

1. 1. Identify common client pain points in your niche
   2. Map your skills to solutions for these challenges
   3. Research how competitors structure similar services
   4. Create tiered offerings at different price points
   5. Develop clear deliverables and outcomes for each service

Effective service package elements:

• • Descriptive name that communicates the core benefit
  • Clear explanation of problems the service solves
  • Specific deliverables included
  • Timeline and process overview
  • Pricing structure (fixed-rate, hourly, retainer)
  • Expected outcomes or results

Sample service structure:

• • Foundation package: Entry-level offering with core deliverables
  • Standard package: Comprehensive solution for typical client needs
  • Premium package: Enhanced offering with additional features or support

For each service, create a detailed standard operating procedure (SOP) documenting your workflow. This becomes invaluable as you refine your processes and potentially delegate or automate aspects of delivery later.

Setting Up Your Freelance Business

With your business concept defined, establish the operational and legal foundation to support your work.

Legal Structure and Registration

Choosing the right legal structure impacts your taxes, liability, and administrative requirements.

Common freelance business structures:

Basic registration steps:

1. 1. Choose your business name and check availability
   2. Register with state/local agencies as required
   3. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
   4. Apply for necessary business licenses or permits
   5. Register for state tax accounts if applicable

Consult with a business attorney or accountant familiar with freelance operations in your location for personalized guidance.

Financial Systems Setup

Establishing proper financial systems from day one prevents complications as your business grows.

Essential financial infrastructure:

• • Separate business bank account (even for sole proprietors)
  • Business credit card for expense tracking
  • Accounting software (QuickBooks Self-Employed, FreshBooks, Wave)
  • Invoicing system with professional templates
  • Time tracking tool if billing hourly
  • Expense tracking process with receipt documentation

Financial planning foundations:

• • Calculate your minimum viable income (covering basic expenses)
  • Determine your target income (including savings and investments)
  • Set appropriate freelance rates based on these numbers
  • Establish a tax savings plan (typically 25-30% of income)
  • Create an emergency fund covering 3-6 months of expenses
  • Set aside funds for business investments and growth

Business Brand and Online Presence

While extensive branding isn’t necessary to start, a professional presence helps establish credibility with potential clients.

Minimum viable brand elements:

• • Business name (ideally available as a domain)
  • Simple logo or wordmark
  • Consistent color palette and typography
  • Professional email address (@yourdomain.com)
  • Cohesive social media profiles

Essential online presence components:

• • Professional website with:
    • • Service descriptions
      • About/bio section
      • Portfolio/work samples
      • Contact information
      • Testimonials (as you acquire them)
  • LinkedIn profile optimized for your services
  • Profiles on relevant platforms (Upwork, Fiverr, Behance, GitHub)

Content creation strategy:

• • Develop 2-3 pieces of content demonstrating your expertise
  • Create case studies as you complete successful projects
  • Share insights related to your specialty on social platforms
  • Consider a simple lead magnet to capture potential client information

Remember that your online presence will evolve. Start with the essentials, then improve incrementally as you gain clients and clarity about your positioning.

Pricing Your Freelance Services

Setting appropriate rates is one of the most challenging aspects of freelancing, yet it’s crucial for building a sustainable business.

Understanding Different Pricing Models

Various pricing structures offer different advantages depending on your services and client relationships.

Hourly Pricing:

• • How it works: Charging a set rate for each hour worked
  • Best for: Projects with undefined scope, ongoing support, or retainer relationships
  • Advantages: Compensates for scope changes, protects against underestimation
  • Disadvantages: Creates incentive to work slowly, caps income potential, requires detailed time tracking

Project-Based (Fixed) Pricing:

• • How it works: Charging a set fee for the entire project regardless of time spent
  • Best for: Well-defined projects with clear deliverables
  • Advantages: Rewards efficiency, simplifies client budgeting, potentially higher effective rates
  • Disadvantages: Risk of scope creep, requires accurate estimation skills

Value-Based Pricing:

• • How it works: Setting prices based on the value delivered to the client rather than time spent
  • Best for: Projects with quantifiable ROI or significant business impact
  • Advantages: Highest income potential, aligns your incentives with client success
  • Disadvantages: Requires strong value articulation, more complex sales conversations

Retainer Arrangements:

• • How it works: Client pays a recurring fee for a set amount of work or availability
  • Best for: Ongoing relationships with consistent work needs
  • Advantages: Predictable income, deeper client relationships, reduced sales time
  • Disadvantages: Potential for scope creep, expectation of constant availability

Calculating Your Baseline Rates

Regardless of which pricing model you choose, understanding your minimum viable rate is essential.

Step-by-step baseline rate calculation:

1. 1. Calculate your annual business expenses:
      
      • • Software subscriptions
        • Hardware and equipment
        • Professional services (accounting, legal)
        • Marketing and website costs
        • Insurance premiums
        • Professional development
        • Office space or coworking membership
   2. Determine your personal financial needs:
      
      • • Living expenses (housing, food, utilities)
        • Healthcare costs
        • Retirement contributions
        • Debt payments
        • Personal savings goals
        • Desired profit margin (typically 10-20%)
   3. Account for non-billable time:
      
      • • Marketing and sales (15-20% of time)
        • Administrative tasks (10-15%)
        • Professional development (5-10%)
        • Vacation and sick time (10-15%)
        • Buffer for unexpected events (5%)
   4. Calculate your billable hours:
      
      • • Typically 20-25 hours/week or 1,000-1,200 hours/year for full-time freelancers
        • Less if maintaining part-time employment
   5. Determine your minimum hourly rate:
      
      • • (Annual expenses + Personal needs) ÷ Billable hours

Example calculation:

Annual business expenses: $10,000

Annual personal needs: $50,000

Billable hours per year: 1,000

Minimum hourly rate: ($10,000 + $50,000) ÷ 1,000 = $60/hour

This represents your floor—the minimum you need to charge for your business to be sustainable. Your actual rates should typically be higher to account for your expertise and market positioning.

Competitive Rate Research

While your financial needs establish your minimum rate, market conditions influence what clients will pay.

Research methods for determining market rates:

• • Freelance platform research (Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com)
  • Professional association salary surveys
  • Direct outreach to fellow freelancers (informational interviews)
  • Client budget conversations during discovery calls
  • Industry reports and freelance rate surveys

Factors that influence market rates:

• • Geographic location (yours and the client’s)
  • Industry vertical and client budget norms
  • Specialization level and perceived expertise
  • Portfolio quality and past results
  • Demand for your specific skills

Strategic Pricing Framework

With your baseline calculated and market research complete, develop a strategic approach to pricing.

Entry-level pricing strategy:

• • Start 10-15% above your minimum viable rate
  • Focus on gathering testimonials and case studies
  • Offer limited-time introductory rates for ideal clients
  • Accelerate price increases as your portfolio strengthens

Established freelancer pricing strategy:

• • Set standard rates 2-3x entry-level rates
  • Create tiered service packages at different price points
  • Implement systematic rate increases for new clients (10-15% annually)
  • Gradually increase rates for existing clients (5-10% annually)

Advanced pricing strategies:

• • Premium positioning with rates 5-10x market average
  • Specialized packages for specific client scenarios
  • Outcome-based pricing tied to client results
  • Hybrid models combining retainers with performance bonuses

Remember that your rates communicate your positioning in the market. Low prices often signal low quality, while strategic premium pricing can actually increase perceived value and attract better clients.

Finding Your First Clients

With your business foundation in place, focus on securing initial clients to build momentum.

Leveraging Your Existing Network

Your personal and professional connections are often the easiest path to early opportunities.

Network activation process:

1. 1. Create a comprehensive list of relevant contacts:
      • • Former colleagues and managers
        • Industry peers and collaborators
        • Alumni from educational institutions
        • Members of professional groups
        • Friends and family in relevant industries
   2. Craft a clear announcement of your new business:
      • • Specific services you’re offering
        • Ideal client description
        • Special considerations for your network
        • Clear call to action (referrals, introductions, or direct work)
   3. Personalize outreach based on relationship:
      • • One-on-one meetings with close connections
        • Personalized emails to professional contacts
        • Strategic social media announcements
        • Public LinkedIn post with private follow-ups
   4. Make it easy for connections to help:
      • • Share sample language for introductions
        • Create a simple “ways we can work together” document
        • Offer referral incentives if appropriate

Example network announcement:

Subject: Exciting news – I’ve launched a freelance [your specialty] business!

Hi [Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to share some exciting news with you—I’ve recently launched my freelance [specialty] business, focusing on helping [specific client type] with [specific problems you solve].

Given your experience in [their industry/role], I thought you might either know organizations that could benefit from my services or have advice as I grow this venture.

I’m particularly looking to work with [ideal client description] who need help with [specific challenges]. If anyone comes to mind who might be a good fit, I’d greatly appreciate an introduction.

I’ve attached a brief overview of my services that you can forward if that’s easier. And of course, I’m happy to return the favor in any way I can!

Would you be open to a quick catch-up call in the next couple of weeks? I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on as well.

Best,

[Your Name]

Online Platforms and Marketplaces

Freelance platforms can provide access to clients while you build your independent marketing channels.

Major platform options:

Platform success strategies:

• • Thoroughly complete your profile with portfolio items
  • Specialize rather than listing every possible skill
  • Start with smaller projects to build positive reviews
  • Deliver exceptional work and overcommunicate
  • Gradually increase rates as your reputation grows
  • Focus on converting platform clients to direct clients

Limitations to consider:

• • Platform fees reduce your effective rate
  • High competition, especially for beginners
  • Limited client relationship ownership
  • Platform-specific rules and restrictions

While platforms shouldn’t be your only client acquisition channel, they can provide valuable early projects, testimonials, and income while building your direct client pipeline.

Direct Outreach and Cold Email

Proactive outreach gives you control over which clients you target rather than relying on inbound inquiries.

Targeted outreach process:

1. 1. Identify 20-30 ideal client companies that match your niche
   2. Research specific decision-makers within each organization
   3. Find contact information using tools like Hunter.io or LinkedIn
   4. Create personalized outreach messages for each prospect
   5. Develop a follow-up sequence (typically 3-5 touches)
   6. Track responses and refine your approach based on results

Effective cold email elements:

• • Personalized subject line referencing the recipient or company
  • Opening that demonstrates research and relevance
  • Brief introduction focused on client problems you solve
  • Specific value proposition unique to their situation
  • Social proof through relevant results or testimonials
  • Clear, low-pressure call to action (typically a brief consultation)

Sample cold outreach template:

Subject: [Specific observation] about [Company]’s [relevant area]

Hi [Name],

I noticed that [Company] recently [specific observation from your research that relates to your services], and it got me thinking about how you might be approaching [relevant business area].

In my work with other [industry] companies like [similar company/competitor], I’ve helped them address challenges with [specific problem you solve] by [brief explanation of your approach].

For example, we recently helped [similar client] achieve [specific result with metrics if possible], which significantly impacted their [relevant business outcome].

Would you be open to a 15-minute conversation next week to explore whether similar approaches might be valuable for [Company]? I have availability on [specific dates/times].

Either way, I enjoyed looking at [something positive about their business], and I appreciate your time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Professional credential if relevant]

[Website]

[LinkedIn profile]

Follow-up framework:

• • First follow-up: 3-4 days after initial email
  • Second follow-up: 5-7 days after first follow-up
  • Final follow-up: 7-10 days after second follow-up
  • Each follow-up should add new value (insight, resource, or case study)

Successful direct outreach typically converts at 1-3%, so volume and consistency are key. Aim to send 10-20 personalized outreach messages weekly while building your business.

Building a Referral System

Satisfied clients become your most powerful marketing channel over time.

Referral generation process:

1. 1. Deliver exceptional work that exceeds expectations
   2. Document positive outcomes and client satisfaction
   3. Make specific, timely referral requests
   4. Provide tools that make referrals easy
   5. Consider incentives for valuable introductions
   6. Express genuine appreciation for all referrals

When to ask for referrals:

• • After successfully completing major project milestones
  • Upon receiving positive feedback or testimonials
  • During project wrap-up conversations
  • In regular check-ins with ongoing clients
  • When announcing availability for new projects

Making effective referral requests:

• • Be specific about who you want to be introduced to
  • Explain why you’re a good fit for similar clients
  • Make the introduction process simple for the referrer
  • Provide email templates they can use
  • Follow up on promised introductions appropriately

Example referral request:

Subject: Quick question about potential introductions

Hi [Client Name],

I’ve really enjoyed working with you on [recent project], and I’m thrilled with how [specific positive outcome] turned out.

As I’m planning my schedule for the coming quarter, I’m looking to work with a few more clients similar to [Client Company] – specifically, [ideal client description] who need help with [specific challenge you solve].

Given your experience in [industry/network], I wondered if you might know 1-2 people who fit this description and could benefit from similar support?

If anyone comes to mind, would you be comfortable making an introduction? I’ve drafted a quick blurb about my services below that you could copy/paste to make it easy.

Of course, I only want you to make introductions you’re completely comfortable with, and I promise to provide the same level of service to anyone you refer.

Thanks for considering this!

[Your Name]

—

[Introduction template they can use]

A systematic approach to referrals can eventually generate 30-50% of your new business while reducing client acquisition costs and shortening sales cycles.

Managing Your Freelance Business

Sustainable success requires effective systems for project delivery, client management, and business operations.

Client Onboarding and Project Management

Structured onboarding creates clear expectations and sets the foundation for successful projects.

Essential onboarding elements:

• • Welcome package/email with next steps
  • Service agreement or contract
  • Initial questionnaire or discovery process
  • Project timeline and milestone schedule
  • Communication preferences and boundaries
  • Payment terms and procedures
  • File sharing and collaboration tools setup

Project management fundamentals:

• • Regular status updates on appropriate cadence
  • Clear deliverable submission process
  • Feedback collection and revision procedures
  • Milestone completion acknowledgments
  • Scope change protocols
  • Client approval documentation

Client communication guidelines:

• • Set response time expectations (24 hours, business hours only)
  • Establish preferred communication channels
  • Create templates for common project updates
  • Document all important decisions and agreements
  • Maintain professional boundaries around availability

Implementing these systems from the beginning establishes you as a professional and prevents common freelance challenges like scope creep, communication breakdowns, and payment delays.

Time Management and Productivity

Effective time management is crucial when you’re responsible for both delivery and business development.

Freelance productivity frameworks:

• • Time blocking for different types of work (client work, marketing, admin)
  • Task batching for efficiency (all invoicing at once, emails in batches)
  • Energy management (scheduling creative work during peak mental hours)
  • Pomodoro technique for focused work sessions
  • Weekly planning and daily prioritization

Tool recommendations:

• • Project management: Trello, Asana, or ClickUp
  • Time tracking: Toggl, Harvest, or RescueTime
  • Task management: Todoist or Microsoft To Do
  • Calendar management: Google Calendar or Calendly
  • Document organization: Google Drive or Dropbox

Boundary-setting practices:

• • Defined working hours communicated to clients
  • Email signature with response time expectations
  • Automated out-of-office messages during non-work hours
  • Separate business and personal communication tools
  • Regular breaks and time off to prevent burnout

Remember that as a freelancer, your time is your inventory. Protecting it and using it strategically directly impacts your profitability and sustainability.

Financial Management and Taxes

Proactive financial management prevents common freelance pitfalls like cash flow problems and tax surprises.

Financial rhythm for freelancers:

• • Daily: Track time and expenses
  • Weekly: Send invoices and follow up on payments
  • Monthly: Reconcile accounts and review profit/loss
  • Quarterly: Pay estimated taxes and assess business health
  • Annually: Complete tax filing and strategic planning

Tax preparation essentials:

• • Set aside 25-30% of income for taxes
  • Make quarterly estimated tax payments
  • Track all business expenses with documentation
  • Understand self-employment tax obligations
  • Research available deductions for freelancers
  • Consider retirement accounts with tax advantages (SEP IRA, Solo 401(k))

Cash flow management strategies:

• • Require deposits for new projects (typically 25-50%)
  • Implement progressive billing at project milestones
  • Offer small discounts for early or advance payment
  • Establish clear payment terms (typically Net 15 or Net 30)
  • Build 3-6 month emergency fund for inconsistent income periods
  • Diversify income streams when possible

Consider working with an accountant familiar with freelance businesses, particularly for your first tax year. The investment typically pays for itself through optimized deductions and avoided penalties.

Scaling Your Freelance Business

Once your business is established, consider strategic growth opportunities to increase income without proportionally increasing hours worked.

Raising Your Rates Strategically

Regular rate increases are essential for business growth and preventing stagnation.

When to raise rates:

• • When consistently booked 2-3 months in advance
  • After completing specialized training or certification
  • When receiving consistent positive client feedback
  • Upon reaching significant business anniversaries
  • When industry demand for your skills increases
  • Annually as a standard business practice (5-15%)

How to implement rate increases:

• • For new clients: Simply update website and proposal templates
  • For existing clients:
    • • Provide 30-60 days notice before implementation
      • Explain the value they’ve received and will continue to receive
      • Consider grandfathering long-term clients at smaller increases
      • Offer annual service packages at current rates before increases take effect

Sample rate increase communication:

Subject: Updated service rates effective 2025

Hi [Client],

I hope this message finds you well. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with [Company] over the past [timeframe], and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, including [specific positive results].

I’m writing to let you know that effective 2025, my service rates will be increasing from [current rate] to [new rate]. This adjustment reflects my continued investment in [relevant skills/tools/education] to provide even greater value to clients like you.

For our ongoing projects, I’d like to offer you the following options:

1. Lock in current rates for the next [timeframe] by booking in advance before 2025

2. Continue our work at the new rates starting [effective date]

3. Schedule a brief call to discuss alternative service packages that might better suit your needs

Please let me know which option you prefer, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

I truly value our working relationship and look forward to continuing to support [Company]’s success.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Rate increases not only improve your income but signal professional growth and increased value to clients. Most clients expect and respect reasonable increases from valued freelancers.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

Multiple income sources create stability and growth opportunities beyond trading time for money.

Common freelance revenue diversification:

• • Productized services with standardized deliverables and pricing
  • Digital products (templates, guides, courses, plugins)
  • Subscription or membership offerings for ongoing value
  • Affiliate partnerships for relevant tools and services
  • Passive income through content monetization
  • Licensing your methodologies or frameworks
  • Subcontracting or agency model with other freelancers

Evaluation criteria for new revenue streams:

• • Alignment with existing expertise and client needs
  • Initial time investment vs. long-term return
  • Scalability potential without proportional time increase
  • Market demand and competitive landscape
  • Passion and interest in the area
  • Potential for recurring or passive income

Start with one alternative revenue stream that leverages your existing expertise and client base. Master it before adding additional streams to prevent diluting your focus.

Building Systems for Growth

Documented systems and processes enable delegation, automation, and scaling.

Key business areas to systematize:

• • Client acquisition (outreach templates, sales process)
  • Onboarding (welcome kits, questionnaires, contracts)
  • Project management (workflows, communication templates)
  • Service delivery (standard operating procedures)
  • Quality assurance (checklists, review processes)
  • Financial management (invoicing, expense tracking)

Systemization process:

1. 1. Document your current approach while performing tasks
   2. Identify opportunities for streamlining and improvement
   3. Create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for core processes
   4. Test and refine systems with actual client work
   5. Identify aspects that could be automated or delegated
   6. Implement appropriate tools to support systems

Potential automation opportunities:

• • Email sequences and follow-ups
  • Social media scheduling and content distribution
  • Invoice creation and payment reminders
  • Basic client onboarding communications
  • Project milestone notifications
  • Expense categorization and receipt processing

Effective systems transform your freelance practice from a job dependent on your personal time to a business asset that can eventually operate with less direct involvement.

Conclusion

Building a successful freelance business requires more than just talent in your craft—it demands entrepreneurial thinking, strategic planning, and consistent implementation of business fundamentals. By approaching freelancing as a business from day one, you position yourself for sustainable success rather than the feast-or-famine cycle that plagues many independent professionals.

The journey from new freelancer to established business owner involves continuous evolution. Start with the essential foundations outlined in this guide:

1. 1. Define your unique service offering and ideal clients
   2. Establish legal and financial infrastructure
   3. Develop strategic pricing aligned with your value
   4. Implement multiple client acquisition channels
   5. Create systems for efficient business operations
   6. Plan for growth and scaling beyond hourly work

Remember that building a freelance business is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on consistent progress rather than overnight success, and prioritize building genuine relationships with clients who value your expertise.

The freelance path offers extraordinary potential for professional autonomy, financial reward, and work-life integration. By combining your specialized skills with sound business practices, you can create not just a temporary income source, but a thriving business asset that serves both your clients and your personal goals.

Take the first step today by implementing one key system or strategy from this guide, then build momentum through consistent action. Your future freelance success is built on the foundation you establish now.