How I Transformed My Copywriting Career into a Successful Freelance Business—All While Exploring the World
Fourteen years ago, I began my career as a passionate copywriter in Ukraine. My goal was simple: to write engaging content in English and build a solid reputation in the industry.
Over time, I published articles under my pen name, Nancy Young, on well-known websites like Web Design Ledger, Hogkiat, and Digital Photography School. But despite having a robust portfolio, I found myself in a constant struggle.
The Search for Stability
Eight years ago, things reached a point where I knew I needed to find a better way to attract clients. I did receive inquiries from businesses that discovered my work online, but these projects were fleeting—one-off assignments that ended as quickly as they started.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
There I was, juggling multiple small gigs, but never achieving the stability I craved. I knew I had to find a platform where I could secure more consistent work and prove the value of my skills.
Finding Upwork: A Turning Point
That’s when I discovered Upwork.
Initially, I was sceptical. I had heard about the fierce competition, and I worried my profile might get lost among thousands of freelancers.
Nonetheless, I decided to set up an account. I refined my profile, selected my best work samples, and crafted proposals tailored to each job.
The effort paid off. Within weeks, I secured my first Upwork client! This time, it wasn’t just a short-term gig—the project had long-term potential, and the client left a glowing review.
This one success turned out to be the stepping stone that set my freelance career in motion. Soon, more clients began contacting me, and I found myself with a steady stream of work.
Becoming a Top-Rated Freelancer
Since then, I’ve proudly earned a Top Rated badge on Upwork. I’ve collaborated with diverse clients, helping brands refine their messaging and build strong online presence.
Tenerife, Spain
As my career grew, so did my services. I expanded my offerings to include SEO consulting, providing businesses with strategies to optimise their content and improve their search engine rankings.
Building My Own Digital Presence
Beyond freelancing, I ventured into the world of website management and launched my own site, Onedesblog.
Through Onedesblog, I share valuable resources and insights for creatives, web designers, and entrepreneurs. Running the site has allowed me to further hone my digital skills and connect with a wider audience.
Embracing the Freedom of the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
The freedom that freelancing provides has allowed me to redesign my entire lifestyle. Thanks to Upwork, I’ve become a digital nomad, travelling to over twenty countries.
Whether I’m sipping coffee in a quaint Parisian café, working on a terrace with views of Thailand’s beaches, or enjoying tapas in sunny Spain, every destination has enriched my creativity and expanded my perspective.
Kon Phangan
Freelancing hasn’t just provided me with clients—it’s given me the power to build a business on my own terms. I can now be more selective with my projects, charge what I’m worth, and deliver high-quality work without the pressure of chasing short-term opportunities. It’s been a long journey, but looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Want to Start Freelancing? I Can Help!
If you dream of building your freelance career on Upwork, I’ve created a comprehensive guide covering everything—from setting up your profile to securing your first clients. Drop me an email at nancy.youngg(@)gmail.com, and I’ll send you the guide for a small fee.
Also, don’t hesitate to follow me on Instagram: @nancyyoungg
If I can transform a struggling career into a thriving business while exploring the world, so can you!
