Ask HN: full-time job or full-time freelancing or both? | Hacker News Reader

Ask HN: full-time job or full-time freelancing or both?

11 pointsshire4 comments

Just curious how many of you work Full time programming in languages like Java, Python, Ruby and also do freelancing on the side maybe using PHP or Javascript for on the side work or extra income.

I'm going to be starting work soon as a Python Developer and wanted to perhaps use PHP on the side when I'm off work to make extra money working for clients.

Has anyone tried this? PHP is hated a lot here I know but it's really simple and quick to build dynamic websites with it plus it is in so much demand. I just need advice on how many of you have went this route before and what was the outcome and result of your freelancing while working full time job too?

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I used to freelance after my full-time job and I have to admit that it is really exhausting. I had less time for my girlfriend and to compensate this I left all my hobbies. I could not even watch a movie or start reading a book because I had to finish my freelance work. It is really hard to predict sometimes how much effort is needed for a freelance job, so if you are not so experienced take my advice: always tell your client that when he changes the requirements the deadline must also change. Always thinking about the deadlines and the work to do - best way to burn out.

One more thing: sure it is a good thing to earn more money by working more. If you have a debt or you are really need to save for something it might be (not sure it is the best) a good approach to boost your income. I had no debts while I was doing this; I just wanted some more money to increase the level of my lifestyle, let's say.. the problem was that I had no time to really spend or use the plus money in a good way.

I hope I could help. Also please notice that I am sure that there are people whose tolerancy for work or their energies let's say are higher than mine.

With PHP you can enter the wonderful (and lucrative) world of Wordpress templating, plugins and/or maintenance. Like the other post suggested you will be burnt out if you freelance while working full-time so balance your freelance workload such that you still enjoy what you do.

Well I'm not doing construction or blue collar work I never thought people could get burned out from freelancing in that sense, most if it involves siting.

It's just sitting inasmuch as reading is looking, writing is moving your hand, and living is breathing.

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