Freelancing offers many benefits like flexibility and independence. However, there can come a time when freelancing is no longer fulfilling or financially viable. Recognising when it’s time to transition to traditional employment can be difficult. Here are some key signs it may be time to quit freelancing, use a professional CV template, and find a new job.

You’re Barely Scraping by Financially

One of the most obvious signs it’s time to find steadier work is if you’re constantly struggling to get enough freelance work to pay your bills. Freelance income tends to ebb and flow, but if you find yourself chronically short on cash, traditional employment may offer more stability and benefits like a pension plan, paid holidays, medical benefits, and more.

Look at your last 6-12 months of income. If your earnings are irregular or declining, it could be time to look for an employee role with a guaranteed salary. Financial struggles like relying on credit cards or going into debt point to an unsustainable freelance career.

You Have No Benefits

One major downside of freelancing is the lack of employee benefits like paid time off, health insurance, retirement contributions, etc. Going without these protections may be feasible when you’re young and healthy. But as you get older, benefits like this become essential.

If you’re tired of constantly worrying about the future and saving for retirement solo, finding a job with good benefits can provide peace of mind. You may earn a bit less in take-home pay, but having your benefits covered is invaluable long-term.

You’re Burned Out and Unfulfilled

Freelancing often involves working long hours and wearing many hats. The flexibility is great, but constant hustling can lead to burnout. If you feel chronically stressed and unmotivated, listen to those signals. Pushing yourself whenyou are mentally and physically exhausted will only breed resentment. 

Reflect on what initially attracted you to freelancing vs what you dislike about it now. If the cons now outweigh the pros, traditional work may reinvigorate you. Find a position that challenges you and helps you grow professionally.

You Crave More Structure and Direction

Working independently requires tremendous self-discipline and direction. Some thrive on the autonomy, while others struggle without more structure. If you constantly feel distracted and procrastinate, you may do better with a more regulated schedule and workplace. The natural accountability of having a manager and colleagues can boost productivity.

You also gain more guidance when part of a team. Instead of always figuring things out solo, you can ask for help when needed. If you feel stagnant skill-wise, finding a position with opportunities for training and mentorship can be fulfilling.

You Want More Work-Life Separation

For some freelancers, the flexibility is a blessing. But without clear boundaries, work can bleed into your personal life. You may constantly feel “on call” which prevents true relaxation. Knowing when to switch off can be challenging when the office is your home. 

If you want more segmented work and family time, a traditional job with set hours can help. When you leave for the day, you’re done with work. Weekends become truly free of work demands. Commuting also provides mental separation between work and home.

You Crave More Social Interaction

One downside of working independently is limited social interaction. Humans are inherently social creatures. If you’re feeling extremely isolated or lonely working solo, an office setting can provide more connectivity. Building in-person rapport and camaraderie is hard remotely. And water cooler chat about last night’s telly or football scores is often sorely missed!

You Want to Advance Your Career

Freelancing has its professional perks, but most ambitious professionals benefit from working within an organisation. Traditional employment provides far more scope for career progression through promotions, pay rises, training programmes and skill development. 

If you want to take your career up a notch, at some point it’s useful to plant roots at a company aligned to your goals. Seek a role that both utilises your existing abilities and expands your skillset.

Knowing When to Make the Leap

Assessing when to transition from freelancer to employee isn’t always straightforward. But tuning into your needs and motivations can provide clarity. If the signs point to freelancing no longer being a fulfilling or viable path, it may be time to find steadier employment. With an abundance of jobs and greater flexibility today, you can find something that ticks all the boxes – just be sure to evaluate opportunities carefully to ensure it’s the right fit!