I've Quit Freelancing for Golf!
After 15 months, I'm ditching the world of freelance to follow my latest obsession — Golf!
In just over a week, I’ll be back as a fully fledged employee, back on payroll and back to having a boss. You might be thinking, ‘Liz, I thought you loved the freelancer life and you said you didn’t want a boss again’. And you’d be right, I’ve said all of those things. But you know what? It’s okay to change your mind.
I’ve not quit freelancing because I wasn’t doing well or because I didn’t enjoy it anymore. I quit because the most perfect opportunity came up for me. If you’ve been reading my posts for a while or maybe follow me on LinkedIn, you’ll know I’m totally obsessed with golf. It’s a hobby I picked up in August 2023, and honestly, I live and breathe it. I love playing it, I love watching YouTube videos about it, I love reading and talking about it. So, when I saw a permanent role advertised for a Senior Product Designer for an app that helps college students and golfing pros use data and AI to up their game, I was all in. Everything in that job listing was screaming my name, so I went for it.
Sure, I was torn for a bit, thinking, do I really want to go perm just because it’s about a hobby I love? And the answer was yes. And yeah, I’ll be honest, I’ve taken a pay cut to make this move because freelance can be so lucrative. But when you’re earning a solid wage as a senior designer, it’s more about the day-to-day joy of the job. For me, anyway.
⛳️ Flexibility Over Freelancing
I see contracting and freelancing as a flexible way to work, but I’m not against perm roles. I’m not just waving the freelance flag; I’m all about picking what suits me best at different points in my life. Right now, that looks like a perm role. But who knows? Maybe I’ll swing back to contracting in the future.
I’ve talked about this before, but I’m not much of a career planner. I go where I enjoy my work, where I can earn a good salary, and be with people who inspire me to do better. Luckily, this approach hasn’t failed me yet. That’s why you won’t find big-name companies or studios on my CV. That’s not what drives me as a designer. I’m a person first, designer second.
After contracting and working for myself for so long, I’ve got a more balanced view on being an employee. It’s made me realise how much invisible mental and emotional labour I put into those junior to middleweight roles. Working for myself taught me the value of my time and skills – and that people are willing to pay for them. So, I’m not giving away my all for nothing anymore.
I’m genuinely buzzing to work in a team with other designers and product peeps who love golf too. It’s such a unique chance to merge your career skills with a hobby you love. So, who knows what’s gonna happen, but fingers crossed I at least get my handicap down!
Until we chat again — Liz 🍔
Before I go, here is this week's top jobs I found that I wanted to share with you.
🤑 Jobs
Multiverse: Product Designer
“Apart from being one of the fastest-growing tech companies in Europe, we are working towards a social mission which we care deeply about. We’re also on a growth spurt within our Product team, and joining us now will give you the chance to help to shape the future of our organization.“
Fresha: Senior Brand & Marketing Designer
“Given our exciting and progressive growth plans, we are looking for an exceptional Senior Brand & Marketing Designer to come and join our global business… This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to work in a fast-paced and changing environment, who likes to work autonomously, enjoys a challenge and wants to make an impact.”
JPMorgan Chase: Senior Product Designer
“As a Senior Product Designer at JPMorgan Chase within the Accelerator Business, you are the heart of this venture, focused on getting smart ideas into the hands of our customers. You have a curious mindset, thrive in collaborative squads, and are passionate about new technology.“
💌 Feel like someone you know needs to hear this?
I'd be over the moon if you could help spread the word about this newsletter. Feel free to share this with anyone who might find it helpful or interesting – they can subscribe to get their own little slice of newsletter magic!
Got questions or just fancy a natter? I'm all ears! Drop me an email at liz@skyburgerstudio.co.uk or ping me a message on LinkedIn. Would love hearing from you!
👋 Before you go, say hello!
Please give this newsletter a like ❤️ or a comment 💬 if you found it valuable, interesting or useful in anyway. This small gesture can really help this article reach new audiences and helps me learn what posts resonant!
I've recently done the same! Been freelancing since mid last year and it was right for that point in my life where I was struggling with burnout. I was able to work less for more, but I really missed having a team and working with fellow designers on large scale projects. Good luck with the next chapter 🤞🥳
Totally with you, our careers are made of different chapters, some might involve working for ourselves and some are about working for others. Being able to choose what aligns with our values and needs is the privilege.
Wishing you all the best for this new adventure.