Chapter 1: The Shift in Work Culture

In 2022, my social media feeds were inundated with AI-related content, signaling that a change was overdue. I found myself striving to manage my online presence as a freelance writer. I diligently scheduled posts to maintain a constant online presence, even experimenting with Instagram by sharing aesthetically pleasing images of books rather than selfies, owing to my shyness.

Marketing became a mantra for writers: "Promote yourself or risk obscurity!" The relentless noise from content creators made it seem like I had to be omnipresent to remain relevant. AI emerged as a handy tool to help us navigate this landscape. However, after a year of engaging with various social platforms, I recognized that this approach wasn't for me. As I observed the chaotic atmosphere on Twitter, I realized it was time to seek a traditional job.

In my younger years, I often heard that writing wasn’t a legitimate profession, which led me to a role that didn’t suit me. I endured two challenging years in a classroom before daring to pursue a writing career. Writing is undeniably a profession. However, in 2020, the print magazines I had collaborated with for over a decade abruptly ceased operations. Those that remained often opted for sponsored content over authentic journalism. This forced me to pivot my focus toward a global audience. Over the last four years, my work has been predominantly online, a transformation that proved invaluable.

Freelancing in the digital realm opened up an abundance of writing opportunities. The positions available were not trivial; they were exhilarating, filled with viral content and contributions to major publications. By 2020, after embracing online work, I was earning more than I ever had in the print sector, enjoying greater variety and freedom. I could write whenever and wherever I wanted. Editors and clients sought me out for projects, minimizing the hassle of searching for the right editorial contacts. In this vibrant digital landscape, I felt at ease, like a spectator at a dazzling fireworks show.

But then, the landscape changed once more.

As AI technology emerged, I became a bit of a skeptic—or perhaps a realist. While I recognized the advantages AI offered and continued to receive projects, I noticed subtle changes. Smaller writing gigs began to disappear: the regular blog posts for a psychologist’s site, the client requiring assistance with email campaigns, and the short service articles. Although writing opportunities remained abundant at the core, I sensed that the fringes were fading away. The once-thriving freelance environment was being encased in concrete, transforming into a parking lot.

Freelance writing is in a state of constant evolution, a reality I’ve grown accustomed to. Each previous shift prompted me to adapt and expand my skill set. After tools like Grammarly reduced the demand for proofreading, I transitioned into ghostwriting and developmental editing. As platforms like Buzzfeed began to utilize AI for content creation, I gravitated toward personal essays and creative nonfiction, discovering a niche I truly cherished.

The opportunities were still present, as long as I committed to honing my craft. I firmly believe that the creative realm continues to require human input, and thankfully, I’m not alone in this belief. However, the pressure seemed to multiply exponentially.

By 2023, I concluded that the wait-and-see strategy was too taxing. Each slow month filled me with anxiety about potential job scarcity. I grappled with the typical highs and lows of freelance writing. In the past, during downturns, I could console myself with the thought, “This is part of the writing journey; it will bounce back.” Now, the fear of burnout loomed large. I wanted to stay on this roller coaster, as writing remained my livelihood, but I also needed to alleviate the pressure associated with my online endeavors. It became evident that I needed backup plans.

It was time to explore opportunities beyond the digital realm and engage in face-to-face work.

I initially doubted whether I could change careers and complete my postgraduate studies at the age of 45. Aside from two years in the classroom and a few unrelated jobs, my entire career revolved around writing. The notion of setting that aside to pursue something new and challenging felt both risky and absurd. Was it truly worth the investment of time and money? More importantly, was I capable of such a transition?

Eventually, I dismissed the self-imposed limitations (and societal expectations) regarding what I could achieve in mid-life and embarked on a year-long intensive study program.

The year flew by, and I am now nearing full registration in psychological assessments for individuals with learning disabilities. This change has been rejuvenating. Engaging with people face-to-face is invigorating. I could never abandon my first passion for writing; I doubt I could quit even if I tried. As an introvert, the shift has been a natural fit, but even with my online writing groups and colleagues, the isolation can be draining. My new real-world work has restored a balance I didn’t realize I was missing. My stress levels have diminished, and importantly, writing has become enjoyable again.

Perhaps this is the future (or present) of work in our intricate world: crafting a hybrid work life that harmonizes online and offline experiences. Much of our time is spent staring at screens, immersed in our thoughts and the digital worlds we’ve constructed. For many, this lifestyle is beginning to take its toll. Digital fatigue is a real phenomenon.

It can be surprisingly revitalizing—almost refreshing—to look up, share a smile with someone nearby, and engage in a task that is entirely grounded in reality.

Chapter 2: Reflecting on the Evolution of Work

Exploring the question: Is freelancing a "real job"? This video discusses the value of freelance work in today’s economy.

A personal narrative of leaving a traditional job to embrace freelancing full time, highlighting the challenges and rewards of this journey.