The Reality of Freelancing in Culturally Conservative Countries
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention: freelancing in culturally conservative countries. It’s like trying to run a marathon with your shoelaces tied together – possible, but with a whole lot of extra challenges.
Picture this: You’re sitting in your living room in, let’s say, Saudi Arabia. You’ve got skills, you’ve got drive, and you’re ready to take on the world of freelancing. But there’s a catch – actually, there are several.
The Internet Isn’t Always Your Friend
In many conservative countries, the internet isn’t the free-for-all we’re used to. It’s more like a heavily curated library where someone’s ripped out half the pages. VPNs? Often illegal. So, you’re trying to build a global business with one hand tied behind your back.
I once knew a guy in Iran who had to use his cousin’s address in Turkey just to set up a PayPal account. Talk about a workaround!
The Gender Gap Is Real (And It’s Not Pretty)
If you’re a woman in a conservative country, freelancing can feel like you’re playing a game where the rules keep changing. In some places, you might need a male guardian’s permission just to work. It’s like asking your dad for permission to go to the mall – except you’re a grown adult trying to run a business.
A friend of mine in Pakistan had to use her brother’s name on contracts because some clients were uncomfortable working with a woman. Not cool, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do to get that bread.
Banking on Difficulties
Getting paid as a freelancer in a conservative country? It’s about as easy as teaching a cat to swim. Many international payment systems are off-limits, and local banks often look at freelance income like it’s monopoly money.
I remember chatting with a freelancer from Egypt who had to open a bank account in Cyprus just to receive payments. That’s a lot of hoops to jump through just to get paid for your hard work.
The Cultural Tightrope
Working with clients from different cultures can be a minefield when you’re from a conservative country. You might find yourself constantly self-censoring or struggling to relate to certain project themes.
Imagine trying to design a website for a dating app when dating isn’t even a thing in your country. It’s like being asked to cook a dish you’ve never tasted – you can do it, but it’s going to take some serious creativity.
The Family Factor
In many conservative societies, family isn’t just important – it’s everything. And sometimes, that everything can be a roadblock to your freelancing dreams.
I once met a brilliant web developer from a small town in India. His family couldn’t understand why he wanted to waste time on the computer instead of joining the family business. Convincing them that freelancing was a real job was harder than landing his first client.
But It’s Not All Doom and Gloom
Despite all these challenges, freelancers in conservative countries are some of the most resilient and innovative people you’ll ever meet. They’ve mastered the art of problem-solving because, well, they’ve had to.
Take my friend Fatima from UAE. She turned the conservative dress code into a unique selling point, specializing in modest fashion design for international brands. Talk about turning lemons into lemonade!
The Silver Linings
There are some unexpected perks too. Many conservative countries have a lower cost of living, which means your freelance dollars can stretch further. And let’s not forget the unique perspective you bring to the table – clients often value the diverse viewpoint that comes from working with someone from a different cultural background.
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
Freelancing in a culturally conservative country is tough, no doubt about it. It’s like playing a video game on hard mode. But for those who persevere, the rewards can be huge. Not just financially, but in terms of personal growth and the satisfaction of overcoming some seriously steep odds.
If you’re freelancing in a conservative country, pat yourself on the back. You’re not just building a business; you’re pioneering a path for others to follow. And if you’re thinking about hiring a freelancer from one of these countries? Remember, you’re not just getting a worker; you’re getting a problem-solver extraordinaire.
At the end of the day, freelancing is about freedom. And for many in conservative countries, it’s a hard-won freedom that’s worth every struggle. Keep pushing, keep innovating, and remember – you’re not just changing your life, you’re changing the game.
