Weighing Short-Term Gigs: We Have A Dilemma

Okay, some serious conversation about short-term gigs — ones littered around on Fiverr and sites such as Freelancer (does anyone use it anymore — it’s a plague) and even many such Fixed Price gigs on Upwork.

You get the idea.

These are tempting bites, but do they carry long-term benefits and opportunities?

Are they like sugar rush?

The Allure of Short-Term Gigs

Quick cash, less commitment, flexibility to work on various projects — it seems like a nice ride.

But there’s a catch!

The rabbit hole takes you deep, keeps you in the hunt for the next gig, never building a stable career foundation, and worse, not even looking at your niche.

It breaks your back over time, and even replacing your office chair doesn’t help.

Stability vs. Gratification

Recurring clients or projects come with lasting relationships — a steady income stream you need for peace of mind.

Short-term gigs leave you scrambling to fill gaps in your schedule, always looking for new clients who only pay you enough to go by for some time.

Where’s the big fish?

The High-Paying Exception

Of course, there are exceptions to the rule.

High-paying short-term gigs are good protein, but how much is considered "high-paying"?

The answer depends on your circumstances, such as experience, skillset, and living expenses. It could be $300 for someone just starting or $2,000 for someone established.

Many float in between, and it’s unsurprising when things are on extreme ends.

Strike that balance between the financial gain and the risk of instability.

Your Choice

If you're seeking long-term stability and growth — like most of us — it makes sense to be cautious and prioritize longer-term opportunities.

But grab the juicy short-term ones, or at least build a system to be on the lookout for them. Weigh your options and consider the long-term implications — there can’t be much to think if the pay’s good.

Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and you must watch out for that sprain.

On that note, stay hydrated, keep coming back, and share Byline Blueprint with anyone you think would appreciate this.