How I made it 4 years as a self-employed creator - Episode 47
Four years ago, I quit my 9-5 job to become a full-time content creator—and what a journey it’s been. While I’ve been lucky to experience some incredible moments, it definitely hasn’t been all freedom and flexible hours. Building a career as a creator takes strategic planning, self-discipline, and a whole lot of trial and error.
In this post, I’m breaking down some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in the last four years of running my own creator business—plus the things I wish I knew when I started.
Create & consume
What Austen is creating this week: Sephora savings event blog post
What Austen is consuming this week: Comedic Timing by Upsana Barath
In this episode:
It’s flexible but not a 24/7 party
Yes, I get to create my own schedule—but that doesn’t mean I’m always “free.”
I’ve worked plenty of late nights, taken on projects that weren’t always glamorous, and had to choose the paid opportunity over the fun one more than a few times.
Being a digital creator is both creative and strategic, and striking the right balance is something I’m still learning every day.
Freelancing was my trial run
Before I went full-time, I had already tested the waters with freelance gigs.
That time was so valuable—it helped me figure out what I actually wanted to do and what didn’t work for me long-term.
If you’re considering a full-time creator path, a freelancing phase may be the perfect bridge.
Wearing every single hat
Like most creators, I started by doing everything myself. Over time, I learned every part of running a small business:
Registering my business and filing trademarks
Planning, shooting, and editing content
Managing my time and riding the wave of creative flow
Learning when to hire help
Outsourcing and scaling slowly
Eventually, I realized I couldn’t (and shouldn’t) do it all alone. I started outsourcing small tasks—things like:
Video editing
A virtual assistant to help with my digital course
Contractor help on a project-by-project basis
You don’t have to outsource everything all at once. Starting small made it feel manageable and allowed me to grow sustainably.
Finding community with similar people
One of the best parts of this journey? Connecting with other freelancers and content creators. Having business besties who get it is so important.
Whether we’re bouncing ideas around, venting about algorithms, or celebrating wins together, that support makes a huge difference.
Clubhouse was one way that I found community back in 2021 and Facebook groups are another great place to check-in with similar people and ask for ideas/opinions.
Building multiple income streams
One of the smartest things I did was diversify my income. Over time, I’ve built revenue streams that include:
Brand partnerships
Ad revenue
Affiliate marketing
Consulting and education
Digital products
There are so many ways to get started—whether you apply to LTK, start an Etsy shop, or begin sharing content on TikTok or YouTube.
And don’t be afraid to raise your rates as you grow!
Offline support matters
Behind the scenes, I’ve leaned on my partner, friends, and family more than they probably realize.
Having an offline support system is a game changer when you're self-employed—it helps you stay grounded, especially during the highs and lows.
Moving helped my creativity
When I moved to Hoboken, I finally had room for a proper desk setup and more mental space to think, plan, and create.
The change of pace—and the slightly lower cost of living compared to NYC—made it easier to focus and run my business efficiently.
What I wish I knew sooner
Looking back, here are a few things I would tell myself (or any new creator just getting started):
Focus on one thing at a time to really gain traction
Set clear boundaries and stick to them
Create your own systems for staying organized (I love using Notion and Uptime!)
Resources that helped me grow
Some of my favorite tools and resources include:
Uptime and The 4-Hour Work Week for time management
Following creators who openly share their journeys like the Creative Edition Podcast, Soulcial Scoop, and Vanessa Lau
My own data—analytics are gold when it comes to knowing what’s working
Celebrate every win
Whether it’s a new follower or a dream opportunity, I’ve learned to celebrate every milestone along the way.
Some of the highlights from this past year alone include:
Attending creator events with YouTube and Instagram
Going on my first overnight brand trip
Making my first national TV appearance (!!)
Launching this podcast
Summary
Whether you're thinking about making the leap or you're already a few years into your creator journey, I hope these tips can help inspire you to create a sustainable and successful career as a digital creator.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple