Self-Assessment for Side Hustlers: Identifying Your Strengths and Weaknesses

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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HUSTLE 
By Shelly Leroux · Dec 25, 2024

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

Self-Assessment for Side Hustlers: Identifying Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Alright, freelancers and independent contractors, let's get real. You're probably juggling more balls than a circus clown, right? Clients, deadlines, invoices... the list goes on. But amidst the chaos, have you ever stopped to truly assess your skills?

I'm not talking about that dusty old resume collecting cobwebs in your Google Drive. I'm talking about a deep dive into your unique talents, your hidden superpowers, and yes, even those pesky weaknesses that might be holding you back.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't build a house without a blueprint, would you? You wouldn't bake a cake without knowing the recipe. So why navigate the wild world of freelancing without a clear understanding of your own skillset?

The "What Am I Good At?" Game

Let's start with the fun part: identifying your strengths. Grab a notebook, a cozy corner, and maybe a cup of your favorite caffeinated beverage. Now, let your mind wander.

• What tasks do you consistently receive praise for? Was it that killer website you designed? That witty social media campaign that went viral?

• What comes naturally to you? Do you effortlessly translate complex jargon into plain English? Can you whip up a presentation that would make Steve Jobs jealous?

• What do you enjoy doing so much that you lose track of time? Is it writing, coding, crafting, or maybe even organizing chaos?

Don't underestimate the power of those "aha!" moments. Maybe you're a wizard with spreadsheets, a master of persuasion, or a natural-born networker. These are your secret weapons, folks.

Facing Your Freelancing Demons (aka, Weaknesses)

Okay, now for the less glamorous part: acknowledging your weaknesses. No one's perfect, and that's perfectly okay. In fact, identifying your shortcomings is the first step towards improvement.

• What tasks do you consistently dread? Is it cold calling clients, negotiating contracts, or managing your finances?

• What skills do you feel you're lacking? Maybe your graphic design skills need a refresh, or you're struggling to master a new software.

• Where are you most likely to procrastinate? Is it that soul-crushing administrative work, or that challenging project that's been looming over you?

Be honest with yourself. Don't sugarcoat it. This isn't about beating yourself up; it's about identifying areas for growth.

Turning Weaknesses into Opportunities

Once you've identified your weaknesses, it's time to turn them into opportunities.

• Invest in your education: Take an online course, attend a workshop, or hire a mentor to help you develop new skills.

• Outsource or delegate: If a particular task consistently drains your energy, consider outsourcing it to a freelancer or virtual assistant.

• Find a partner: Team up with someone who complements your skills. Maybe you're a brilliant writer, but you struggle with marketing. Find a partner who excels at sales and marketing, and create a mutually beneficial partnership.

The Evolving Freelancer

Remember, this isn't a one-time exercise. The freelancing world is constantly evolving. Your skills should evolve with it.

Schedule regular self-assessments – maybe quarterly or even monthly – to track your progress. Are you consistently improving in those areas you identified for growth? Are new strengths emerging?

This ongoing process of self-reflection will not only help you become a more successful freelancer but also a happier one. After all, when you're working with your strengths and minimizing your weaknesses, the work itself becomes more enjoyable.

So there you have it, freelancers. Embrace the power of self-assessment. It's time to ditch the guesswork and start building a thriving freelance empire based on your unique strengths and a realistic understanding of your limitations. Now go forth and conquer!

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Keywords: freelance skills, side hustle, self-assessment, skills assessment, freelance career, independent contractor, skill gaps, career development, personal development, strengths and weaknesses