For All the Doubters, Non-Believers, The Cynical That Once Were Dreamers

This is my view from my new office. Friday was my last day at The Standard. I decided to leave for many reasons, the main one being I want more time to freelance.

As I handed out the customary "last day" cakes and told my colleagues of my freelancing plans, some reacted with  envy. "Take me with you!" they said with a half-serious laugh. Others reacted to the word "freelancing" with raised eyebrows and an unconvincing nod. Why in the world would a young journalist leave her fulltime reporting job with benefits, steady salary, etc. for the uncertainty of freelancing? Good question.

It's quite simple really. I'm 25 and while I consider myself organized, driven and completely reliable, I don't want the security of a job I don't fully love. I want to write more features; write for other publications; and explore Hong Kong. So I decided it was time to move on.

I realize this change is risky. I know I could fail miserably. "Freelancing doesn't pay," one editor said. "It's better if you have an organization to write from," another said, making no effort to hide his doubt. They may be right, but I will be working very hard to prove them wrong in the next few months.

For the supportive majority, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Bonus love for those who can name the song quoted above (without search engines).

Comments

[sarah]

I'm so ashamed that I know that quote, I'm going to pretend that I don't.

You won't fail, silly. you're the awesomest and i have complete faith. Your logic is sound and you are amazing, so I'm not worried about you at all and offer you nothing but love and support.

[Maggie]

You're awesome..<3
I have no doubt you'll do amazing things.
Including dressing dogs/children in costumes.

[Andrea Chiu]

Hahaha.

There's always my costuming business dream...

Thanks to you both!

[Justin]

Awww, Andrea! That pic of your lonely desk and computer almost made me cry, you drama queen you.
You are missed but I know you'll do greater things than "diary" driven press conferences, of course.

[Nic]

Damn. You are one gutsy gal, not that I didn't already know that! But you rock and I wish you tons of luck taking over the freelance world.

[Hongmedia]

Good Luck and Best Wishes. All journos take this leap at some time or other. There's more chance of surviving here in Hong Kong where there are so many publications. If you can't make a living without selling your soul, you can always get another job. No sweat. Just don't become another burned out sub on the back bench!!

[Brandon]

hello andrea! all the best for your new journey!!! not entirely a bad idea at your age. i suppose we can say that it will be 'anything but standard'! (pardon the pun) hahahaha... =)

[nik]

congratulations. i'm not gonna lie, i think i'm too lazy to freelance full time. so good for you.

[brian]

you go, girl.