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Freelance No More: 7 Reasons You Should Get A Real 9 to 5 Job

There is no doubt there are perks to freelancing. It offers a lot of flexibility, but there are some downsides as well. As someone who has freelanced for more than 10 years, there are some things about a traditional 9-to-5 job that are starting to look appealing. Here is a look at seven reasons you might consider getting a more stable 9-to-5.

1. Steady Paychecks Mean Financial Stability

1. Steady Paychecks Mean Financial Stability
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Generally speaking, a 9-to-5 job will provide you with more financial stability. You’ll get steady paychecks rather than signing on for a temporary project or picking up work as it is available. Freelancers can experience income fluctuation from time to time, making it hard to budget and save. Having a regular paycheck can allow you to establish more of a routine. Additionally, knowing exactly how much you’ll earn every month can bring you better peace of mind.

2. Health Benefits Provide Peace of Mind

2. Health Benefits Provide Peace of Mind
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Speaking of peace of mind, most traditional jobs come with health benefits like medical, dental, and vision insurance. Some companies will even provide you with stipends for your gym memberships, mental health resources, wellness programs, and sick leave. These benefits will provide you with coverage for routine check-ups and medical emergencies. It can better help you maintain your physical and mental well-being. Without a company-sponsored plan, many freelancers wind up skipping necessary medical visits because they don’t have coverage or don’t have the money to pay for the service. A 9-to-5 job provides you with more protection.

3. Paid Time Off for Better Work-Life Balance

3. Paid Time Off for Better Work-Life Balance
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Freelancers don’t get much time off. Many of us find ourselves working long stretches of time without any days off because if we aren’t working, we aren’t getting paid. Traditional jobs will generally offer paid time off, including vacation days, personal days, and sick leave. This means you can take time off to recharge, travel, or spend time with your family without impacting your cash flow. In the end, this PTO gives you the opportunity to have a better work-life balance.

4. Opportunities for Career Growth and Advancement

4. Opportunities for Career Growth and Advancement
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When you are a contract employee, there is typically no room for growth like there is in a traditional position. A 9-to-5 will often provide you with a clear path for advancement. Some companies will even offer you mentorship programs, training workshops, and other resources to help foster growth in your career. Overall, these opportunities provide you with a sense of purpose in the workplace that is often lacking in freelance work.

5. Collaboration and Social Connections at Work

5. Collaboration and Social Connections at Work
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Working as a freelance employee can be lonely. It often involves working from home or in isolated office environments without any coworkers. Working a 9-to-5 can provide you with more social interactions and chances to collaborate with team members. You have more of a sense of community among your coworkers. The workplace environment can be incredibly enriching, providing both personal and professional fulfillment that remote/freelance work often lacks.

6. Predictable Hours Lead to Better Time Management

6. Predictable Hours Lead to Better Time Management
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There aren’t any set hours when you work a freelance job. In a 9-to-5 position, you will know when your workday begins and ends. While there might be certain instances where you have to work over to complete a project, knowing what your schedule will be for the most part will help you establish a predictable routine. Freelance workers, on the other hand, will often find themselves working odd hours, which makes managing their personal time more difficult.

7. Access to Resources and Support Systems

7. Access to Resources and Support Systems
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Freelancers are on their own when it comes to resources for the most part. You often have to pay for your own programs, equipment, learning materials, etc. When you are part of a company, you’ll have access to more resources and support. This means you won’t have to personally invest in anything you need to do your job. On top of that, the human resources department will often provide guidance on benefits, career development, and workplace policies, which will help you navigate your career smoothly. When you run into a challenge, your colleagues and management will be able to provide you with resources and support to get your job done. It makes things easier to manage.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Career Goals

Finding the Right Fit for Your Career Goals
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There are plenty of perks to freelancing, don’t get me wrong. However, a traditional 9-to-5 job will bring you stability, growth, and resources that are often lacking in a contract position. Every career path has its own pros and cons, but understanding what you value in your work life can help you make the best choice for your career. For those considering a change, the perks of a traditional job can offer a new and fulfilling direction in your professional journey.