Freelancing can be a dream come true—flexibility, creativity, and the freedom to be your own boss. Goals, right?
And while it definitely has its rewards, at times (especially at the beginning of this new chapter into entrepreneurship), it can also feel like you’re out there on an island, navigating a boat alone, going round in circles.
Whether it’s craving new expanders (mentors) to learn from or inspire you, or simply asking, ‘What is gross profit and loss?’
As a freelance Hair Artist & educator with over 20 years in the industry, I’ve experienced both the highs and the lows. And one thing that has always stood out to me is the power of being vulnerable. I know it sounds a bit “ahh”, but what I mean is the ability to allow yourself to ask for support in areas where you want to grow, instead of pretending we know it all. This is why it’s important to continue building your community.
When I first stepped into the freelance world after years of working in established salons, I quickly realised that the support system I once had was no longer there. No more daily check-ins with colleagues, no one to bounce ideas off, and definitely no one to turn to for advice or a second opinion with client challenges. Sure, I had my skills and my experience, but it still felt like something was missing. At times, I felt stagnant, like I wasn’t moving forward in my career.
That’s when I realised I was craving more and how important it is to have a community—even as an independent professional. Community is more than just a network; it’s a support system that helps you grow, learn, and stay motivated.
I knew that I needed this because my energy was different after connecting with a new person who quickly became part of my personal tribe.
As I continued growing my Carla community, I found that the more vulnerable and conscious I was, the more open others were to let their ego down and either learn from me or teach me something.
I was not the competition; I was a colleague.
By Carla Rinaldi, a colour education specialist with over two decade’s worth of international experience in London and a leader in all things colour, corrections, highlighting, balayage, hair health, bleaching and tape hair extensions for clients in Melbourne.
