Female Creative Entrepreneur: Embracing Your Flow
Having grown up in Germany and attended University in Canada I chose my field of study on many factors, including the ability to work internationally. Secretly, I knew I did not want to leave Germany for good - although 19 year old Marisa would argue differently. Fast forward, I found not only my passion, but also a work that allows me to combine my time spent in both countries. As I am currently working in Germany, Spain and Switzerland - I gratefully reflect on the blessings I have worked towards and the amazing clients that are along for the ride.
In a world that is rapidly evolving, the gig economy is flourishing, and freelancers are finding new and innovative ways to navigate the challenges of remote work. As a freelancer myself, I've come to appreciate the various tools and strategies that make this journey not only feasible but also enriching.
One of the perks of being a web designer and marketer is the ability to work with clients from all corners of the globe. However, let's be real – coordinating meetings across different time zones can be a headache. That's where my trusty sidekick, Calendly, swoops in. This tool has saved me from the back-and-forth dance of scheduling, allowing me to set my availability and giving clients the freedom to book times that suit us both. It's like having a personal assistant who speaks time zone fluently!
Late-night brainstorming sessions and working through weekends have become the norm for me. It's not just about meeting deadlines; it's about adapting to the rhythm of my creative flow. Those odd hours when the world is quiet become my canvas for crafting pixel-perfect designs and compelling marketing strategies. And you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way. It's almost 11 pm right now in Switzerland - YAY creative hour. And if I post this blog and social post right after, it will be live for you in Canada at 2 pm. NEATIOOO. Social media becomes my storytelling platform, sharing the behind-the-scenes moments that make freelancing uniquely mine.
Speaking of social media, it's not just a place to showcase my work – it's a window into my world. Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn aren't just tools for self-promotion; they're spaces where I invite clients and followers to join me on this journey. From sharing snippets of my workspace adorned with post-it notes to celebrating the victories (big and small), social media humanizes my brand. It's not just about the work; it's about the person behind the screen, navigating the freelance maze with passion and determination.
As a freelance web designer and marketer, my workspace is ever-changing. Sometimes it's the hushed atmosphere of a library where I delve into research and strategy planning. Other times, it's the lively hum of a local coffee shop, with a side of very very expensive Swiss coffee (8 Schweizer Franken - approx 12 dollars!!) that adds that touch of indulgence to my workday. Co-working spaces bring a different energy, a blend of professionalism and camaraderie. Each space becomes a chapter in my freelance story, influencing my creativity and productivity.
Being 26 (126%) doesn't mean I've got it all figured out. The freelance journey is a continuous learning experience. Enter free libraries – virtual and physical treasure troves that feed my curiosity. E-books, online courses, and research papers become my companions in this journey of growth. As a web designer and marketer, staying on top of trends and expanding my skill set is not just a professional goal; it's a personal commitment to excellence.
So, here's to the freelancers, the night owls, the coffee enthusiasts, and the perpetual learners. The journey is uniquely ours, and every project is a brushstroke on the canvas of our freelance story. Cheers to the adventures that lie ahead!
