What freelancers say is critical for success

What is the cornerstone of success? Freelancers should know. As organizations become more agile, and the nature of the roles of employees becomes closer to the nature of what entrepreneurs do, you may find this list useful, although it is not completely exhaustive.

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First, your personal network always helps to overcome challenges. We all experience challenges. When times are tough, you can lean on a diverse network of relationships, which is what freelancers do. It's great to have someone provide you with guidance, support and, maybe, also new opportunities, says the Center for Creative Leadership.

The flexibility and agility to learn

Often your final destination deviates from the path you chose at the beginning. The needs of the people who are collaborating with you, as well as external circumstances, change. Be prepared for frustration if you aren't flexible. Most freelancers are glad when they can pursue new paths, because it gets you out of your comfort zone and it's good for development.

By gathering lessons from various experiences, you grow as a person. All that you have learned can be adapted to deal with the new situations you find yourself in. When a situation is initially confusing, jump right in and rapidly start trying different approaches. Those small-scale experiences you get will give you a better sense of what you should do, and help you not to get lost in new situations.

Relationship management

We should never rely solely on ourselves. It's far better to proactively engage with others and build the network mentioned above. Build your own diverse community.

Risk taking and resilience

There will be ups and downs and many uncertainties. Don’t get frustrated though. You need to build your inner strength and resilience, and then it will be easier for you. Failure can't stop you. Don’t assign blame – failures are necessary for us to go forward. All negative experiences are opportunities for growth, so keep that in mind.

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Article source Center for Creative Leadership - CCL® website
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