In today’s post-pandemic world, the line between freelancing and corporate life has blurred more than ever. With remote jobs, hybrid setups, and full-time roles that mimic freelancing in flexibility, it’s no wonder more people are asking: Should I freelance, stay in my corporate job, or find something in between?

The answer? It depends on what kind of life you want to build.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each path so you can figure out what works for you, not just what’s trending on the Internet.

Corporate Job: The Good, The Not-So-Good

Pros:

✅ Predictable income (yay, payslip!)

✅ Government-mandated benefits (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG)

✅ Structured growth and promotions

✅ Paid leaves, 13th-month pay, and health insurance

✅ Clear roles, support systems, and job descriptions

Cons:

🚫 Fixed schedule (hello, 9-to-6 grind)

🚫 Less flexibility for passion projects or side hustles

🚫 Limited control over tasks or team dynamics

🚫 Longer commute times if on-site

🚫 Office politics (yikes)

I spent years in the corporate world, some of them remote. While I appreciated the structure and stability, I eventually found myself doing the same kind of projects over and over. I also experienced the frequent office gossip that tired me out. Overall, I had a fulfilling experience in the corporate world, but over time, I began to crave opportunities that would challenge me more creatively.

Freelancing: The Freedom (and the Flip Side)

Pros:

✅ Flexible schedule (goodbye, rigid hours!)

✅ You choose your clients and projects

✅ Potential to earn more, especially with international clients

✅ Work from anywhere (your couch, a café, or even the beach)

✅ Learn fast and wear many hats (you’ll grow in ways a corporate job may not allow)

Cons:

🚫 No guaranteed income (especially at the start)

🚫 No built-in benefits—you’re in charge of SSS, PhilHealth, and taxes

🚫 Isolation (no officemates to chat with at lunch)

🚫 You handle everything: marketing, finance, admin, client drama

🚫 Burnout can creep in without strong boundaries

When I finally made the leap into freelancing, it was equal parts terrifying and thrilling. I had to learn everything from pricing and invoicing to managing my time, but it also gave me a sense of ownership I’d never felt before. This was also where a lot of growth happened for me, not just in terms of skills and experience, but in how I approached work and life. Freelancing expanded my perspective and helped me get clearer on the kind of work I wanted to do and how I wanted to do it.

And Then There’s the “Corporate Remote” Setup

Many Filipinos are now hired full-time by companies like Virtual Staff Finder or BPOs with remote options. These roles offer the best of both worlds:

✅ You’re employed full-time but work from home

✅ You get benefits, holidays, and predictable pay

✅ You don’t have to constantly hunt for clients

But there’s still a catch:

🚫 You’re still tied to fixed hours

🚫 Limited freedom to take on other clients or side hustles

🚫 Workload and expectations can feel just like a corporate job (minus the commute)

I’ve also been in this setup, and to be honest, it felt like a sweet spot for me at first, allowing me to have a safety net while pursuing a side income. It was also what saved me when I was unexpectedly laid off from my job.

This setup is perfect if you want financial stability and remote flexibility, but don’t want the full pressure of running your own business (yet). This is where side hustles can start and grow.

So… Who Should Consider Freelancing?

Freelancing might be for you if:

• You crave autonomy and hate being micromanaged
• You want to build multiple income streams
• You enjoy learning and adapting on your own
• You’re okay with a little risk in exchange for more freedom

But if you value structure, steady income, and long-term employment, staying in corporate or a remote employee setup might be a better fit—for now.

And that’s okay.

My Tita Thoughts

You don’t have to pick a path forever. Many freelancers started in corporate (hi, it’s me 👋), and many corporate folks eventually freelance. Some even do both at the same time. What matters is choosing what fits your lifestyle right now, and being open to changes and opportunities when life calls for it.

Have a question or just want to connect? Feel free to send me an email or follow along on Instagram @virtualtita. Let’s talk freelancing, personal finance, or anything in between. And if you’d like tips and stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for the newsletter below.