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Discussion on: How to Quit Your Job and Start Freelancing as a Software Developer

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mohanarpit profile image
Arpit Mohan

What are your thoughts on freelancing on the side, while working a full-time job? Does that help you transition better? Or do you think going the whole hog is the best way to start?

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chrisachard profile image
Chris Achard

On the side is definitely great if you can swing it (that's actually what I did for a little bit about a year before I quit). There are a few things to keep in mind though:

First, make sure your current employee agreement allows you to do work on the side. Some contracts actually forbid you from doing side work. (those clauses are also actually unenforceable in some locations - so talk to a lawyer if you're worried)

Second, I would start with small projects, for people you already know (ideally). A small project is great because you can try it out to see if you like it, and can take the extra hours. Doing work for someone you already know means they'll be understanding about you working on the side (weird hours).

I do think it's a great idea to do some work on the side first to see if you like freelancing - but I also think that working a full time job + work on the side for any long period of time is a recipe for burnout :/

Hope that helps! Thanks for the question - that's a great point I probably should have included in the article :)