𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗨𝗽𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗜 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿

Discover how I moved from low-paying Instagram gigs to earning $10/hr on Upwork. Learn my real story of breaking free financially through freelance platforms and the lessons every social media manager should know.

In today’s digital world, having a skill like social media management can open doors — but only if you know where to find the right opportunities.
My journey from chasing low-paying Instagram clients under Duruson Social Media Consult to earning steady income on Upwork is a story of persistence, hard lessons, and transformation.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, underpaid, or ready for a breakthrough, my experience might just inspire your next big move.

The Early Days: Running Instagram Ads for Clients

Back in 2019, I started Duruson Social Media Consult, offering Instagram content creation and account management to small businesses. I believed visibility was the key to landing clients, so I ran sponsored ads targeting local audiences. This brought attention, but mostly from clients who undervalued my work.

Many clients reached out, but most wanted to pay next to nothing. My expenses (internet data, ad fees, and day-to-day costs) quickly ate into the little I earned. To make ends meet, I found myself accepting ridiculously low offers. Some paid as low as ₦5,000 for an entire month of content creation.

Even when I worked around the clock, the earnings barely moved the needle. Yet I stuck with it, believing that consistent exposure would eventually bring better clients. I was wrong. The local market didn’t understand the value of professional social media services, and the returns didn’t match my efforts.

The Harsh Reality of Earning in Local Currency

Between 2019 and 2023, I kept at it—serving local businesses, producing results, but getting little in return. I began to feel the weight of being paid in a currency (Naira) that constantly lost value due to inflation and economic instability.

Each month felt like a repeat of the last: multiple clients, long hours, and very little financial gain. Even when I raised my rates slightly, clients would ghost me or look for cheaper alternatives. The truth was clear: staying local meant staying stagnant.

Despite doing good work, I couldn’t scale. My peers in digital marketing from other countries were charging 10x more for the same service, simply because of geography. It became painfully clear: If I wanted to earn more and live better, I needed to start earning in a stronger currency like dollars.

The Game Changer: Discovering Upwork

In 2024, a friend told me about Upwork, one of the world’s largest freelancing platforms. I had heard of it but always assumed it was too competitive. The idea of competing with freelancers worldwide intimidated me.

Still, I gave it a try. I researched how to set up a great profile, listed my services clearly, and uploaded samples of my past work—including visuals, captions, and campaign strategies I had done for small businesses in Nigeria.

I signed up, uploaded samples of my past work (including successful Instagram campaigns I had done for clients), and wrote a brief bio describing my services. But nothing happened right away. In fact, for weeks, I didn’t get a single job.

The Grind: Applying with No Replies

At first, my proposals were basic. I simply explained what I did without tailoring each message to the specific job posting. I later learned this was a mistake. Most clients receive 20–50 proposals, so you must stand out.

So I researched how to write better proposals, used ChatGPT to help me rewrite my applications in a more professional tone, and began to apply strategically. I also adjusted my pricing to stay competitive and emphasized results from past clients in my cover letters.

I also learned the importance of applying early—within minutes of a job being posted. This helped push my proposal to the top of the client's list. I kept track of all the jobs I applied for and reviewed what worked and what didn’t.

Eventually, the tide turned.

The Breakthrough: Earning in Dollars

When I finally landed my first job, it was a major leap:
$10/hour for up to 30 hours a week — all working remotely.
This meant I was earning about $300 a week, a figure that dwarfed what I used to make from multiple low-paying Instagram clients combined.

One single job on Upwork replaced the earnings of six jobs I previously juggled on Instagram.
For the first time, I wasn’t just working hard; I was working smart — and earning in a stronger, global currency.

Why Upwork Worked for Me

Unlike Instagram, where I had to spend to get visibility, Upwork allowed me to get in front of serious buyers who were already searching for what I offered.

Here’s what made the difference:

• Niche-specific proposals: I stopped using copy-paste messages and wrote personalized responses for each job. I addressed the client’s needs and explained how I could meet them.

• Quick application timing: I applied for jobs within 10 minutes of being posted, helping me rank in the first few proposals.

• Polished profile: I showcased my strengths clearly and used tools like Canva Pro to create a beautiful portfolio.

• Clear communication: I was responsive and communicated professionally, giving clients peace of mind.

Upwork gave me control over my pricing, freedom to choose clients, and the ability to scale by taking on jobs that matched my skill level.

Lessons I Learned from This Journey

Reflecting on my journey, here are the major lessons that changed my career:

• Exposure matters: Running ads helped, but exposure without the right pricing strategy can lead to burnout.

• Know your worth: It’s better to have one high-paying client than ten low-paying ones.

• Go global: Platforms like Upwork give you access to clients who value your skills, not just your geographic location.

• Persistence pays: Months of no response can feel discouraging, but consistency wins in the end.

How You Can Start Your Own Freelance Journey

If you're a social media manager (or any skilled freelancer) feeling stuck in low-income cycles, consider stepping into the global market:

1. Create a strong portfolio: Use past client work, mock projects, or even self-initiated campaigns.

2. Sign up on Upwork: Build a professional profile and start applying consistently.

3. Keep learning: Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses to sharpen your skills.

4. Stay patient: Freelance success doesn’t happen overnight, but it absolutely happens if you stay committed.

Tip: Use platforms like Canva Pro for professional visuals that enhance your portfolio and proposals.

The Confidence That Comes With Global Clients

Once I started working with international clients, my confidence grew rapidly. I wasn’t just earning more — I was being treated with respect. Clients would thank me for my professionalism, pay invoices on time, and even refer me to others.

I also learned to manage projects better. I used tools like Trello and Google Calendar to keep track of deliverables. I became better at setting boundaries and communicating availability, which helped me avoid burnout.

Most importantly, I finally had the mental space to think long-term. I wasn’t worried about whether I could pay my bills — I was now planning savings, investments, and future business ideas.

The Power of Investing in Yourself

One big reason for my breakthrough was a shift in mindset: I began to invest in myself intentionally. Whether it was a Canva Pro subscription, buying a new laptop, or enrolling in a short course — every investment gave me more tools to perform better and charge higher.

I stopped seeing learning as an expense and began to see it as an asset. Each new skill, each improved system, added more confidence and value to my service.

If you’re on a similar path, don’t be afraid to invest in your growth. The returns are real — not just in income, but in peace of mind and purpose.

There are other fields that shows why you should never give up

Discover many ways to earn.

So many great stories to motivate you.

In summary, always be ready to explore new territories. 

Beyond the Money: Confidence and Control

What changed wasn’t just my income; it was my mindset. I began to see myself as a global digital service provider, not just a local freelancer. That shift empowered me to raise my rates, set boundaries, and work with respect.

I learned how to vet clients, manage contracts, and negotiate timelines. I no longer felt like I was begging for work—I was offering solutions.

Now, I don’t just earn in dollars—I work with businesses worldwide, manage my schedule, and have confidence in my craft. I’m also building a team and thinking about creating an agency in the near future.

Embracing Continuous Learning and Skill Development

Transitioning from local gigs to international platforms like Upwork required a significant shift in mindset and skills. I realized that to compete globally, I needed to continuously update my knowledge and adapt to industry trends. Investing time in online courses, attending webinars, and staying updated with the latest social media algorithms became part of my routine. This commitment to learning not only enhanced my service offerings but also instilled confidence in my clients about my capabilities.

Navigating Client Relationships and Building Trust

One of the pivotal moments in my freelance journey was understanding the importance of client communication and trust. Early on, I faced challenges due to delayed responses, which led to missed opportunities. I learned that prompt communication and setting clear expectations are crucial. By being transparent about my availability and proactively updating clients on project progress, I fostered stronger relationships and ensured repeat business.

Diversifying Income Streams and Exploring New Opportunities

While Upwork became a significant source of income, I recognized the importance of diversifying my income streams. I began exploring other platforms and opportunities, such as creating digital products, offering online courses, and consulting for businesses looking to enhance their social media presence. This diversification not only provided financial stability but also allowed me to reach a broader audience and share my expertise on a larger scale.

Mentoring and Giving Back to the Community

As I gained experience and success in freelancing, I felt a strong desire to give back to the community. I started mentoring aspiring freelancers, sharing my journey, and offering guidance on navigating the challenges of the freelance world. This not only allowed me to make a positive impact but also reinforced my own knowledge and kept me grounded.

Planning for the Future: Scaling and Business Growth

Looking ahead, my goal is to scale my freelance operations into a full-fledged digital agency. By building a team of skilled professionals, I aim to offer comprehensive social media solutions to clients worldwide. This vision involves strategic planning, investing in tools and resources, and continuously refining our service offerings to meet the evolving needs of the digital landscape.

The Emotional Rollercoaster Behind the Success: What Most Freelancers Don’t Talk About

While the numbers and milestones sound inspiring—$10/hr, global clients, portfolio upgrades—what many people don’t see are the emotional highs and lows that happen behind the scenes. Freelancing, especially when transitioning from local to international clients, is not just about mastering skills or writing winning proposals; it’s also about managing self-doubt, battling imposter syndrome, and navigating moments of deep frustration that make you question everything.

There were days I stared at my Upwork dashboard wondering if I’d ever get noticed. Days I poured effort into proposals only to be met with silence. And worse—days I got responses from potential clients who were rude, dismissive, or downright exploitative. Some offered embarrassingly low rates, others ghosted me after several messages, and a few even criticized my work harshly without offering constructive feedback.

But every time I felt like giving up, I reminded myself why I started. I couldn’t go back to the ₦5,000 monthly jobs or continue explaining my value to people who never truly appreciated it. The journey was hard—but not impossible. I had to find motivation in small wins: a kind client message, a 5-star review, or even just the courage to hit “submit” on another proposal.

Each rejection taught me resilience. Each delay taught me patience. And every harsh client reminded me to set clearer boundaries and protect my energy.

There’s something no one tells you about chasing freelance dreams — it gets lonely sometimes. You’re in your room, staring at a screen for hours, refreshing your inbox, and wondering if you’re even doing it right. Unlike a traditional job, you don’t have coworkers to talk to, no manager to give feedback, and no predictable paycheck to assure you you’re on the right path. It’s just you — your skills, your laptop, and your will to keep going.

I remember nights I cried out of frustration, wondering why others seemed to be succeeding so easily. I saw freelancers online sharing their wins, screenshots of $1,000+ contracts, client testimonies, and thriving lifestyles. Meanwhile, I was struggling to even get one response from a client.

But over time, I began to see a pattern: most of those people had also gone through what I was experiencing — they just weren’t posting about it. No one talks enough about the dark side of freelancing — the unpaid invoices, the burnout, the fear of failure, the guilt of taking a break. That realization helped me feel less alone.

I started documenting my small wins: getting a reply, scheduling a discovery call, or simply submitting a proposal I was proud of. Those “little victories” became my fuel. They reminded me that progress was happening, even if slowly.

And then there’s the client trauma we don’t speak about enough — the one who micromanages, the one who calls at odd hours, the one who disappears after assigning a task. At one point, I had a client who constantly changed the goalpost — nothing I did was ever “good enough.” It wrecked my confidence. But instead of quitting, I used the experience to strengthen my boundaries. I learned how to set clearer expectations from day one, how to write better contracts, and how to respectfully say, “This isn’t a good fit.”

Each difficult experience became a tool in my toolkit. I wasn’t just building a freelance career — I was building mental strength, business acumen, and personal resilience.

Daily Habits That Helped Me Stay Focused and Consistent

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that discipline is more important than motivation. Motivation comes and goes — but discipline, especially in the form of daily habits, keeps you grounded when motivation fades.

In the beginning, I had no structure. I’d wake up late, scroll through Instagram, procrastinate proposals, and then feel guilty at the end of the day. That cycle almost killed my momentum. So I had to become intentional about how I structured my days.

Here are some of the daily habits that made a real difference in my freelance journey:

1. Starting My Day With a Mini Plan

Every morning, before I checked emails or Upwork, I’d open my journal or Google Keep and write down 3 things I must get done that day. Just 3. Sometimes it was “apply to 2 jobs,” “edit client content,” or “record portfolio video.” This small list gave my day direction without feeling overwhelming.

2. Time Blocking My Work Sessions

I began using the Pomodoro Technique — 25 minutes of focused work, 5-minute break. Four rounds later, a longer break. It helped me stay sharp and avoid burnout. I used a free tool called Pomofocus that made it fun and easy to track time.

3. Checking Upwork Twice a Day — No More, No Less

Instead of constantly refreshing the job feed (which can cause anxiety), I set two fixed times to check Upwork: morning and late afternoon. During those times, I would apply to new jobs or follow up on proposals. Outside of those windows, I focused on client work or skill building.

4. Keeping a “Done List” Not Just a To-Do List

At the end of each day, I wrote down what I actually completed — even if it was small. Seeing my “done list” grow gave me a sense of accomplishment and proof that I was moving forward, even on slow days.

5. Learning Every Single Day

Even when I didn’t have active clients, I spent at least 30 minutes learning — watching a course, reading a blog post, testing a new design technique in Canva. I treated slow seasons as school time. That mindset turned me into a better freelancer over time.

6. Practicing Gratitude and Reflection

Every night, I’d write down one thing I was grateful for. Some days, it was big — like getting paid. Other days, it was small — like getting a kind message from a client or writing a good caption. This practice kept me grounded and reduced the stress of uncertainty.

7. Creating a Ritual to “End” My Workday

As a freelancer, it’s easy to work all day and all night without boundaries. I created a personal shutdown routine — I’d close all tabs, clear my desktop, write tomorrow’s plan, and then do something offline (like watch a movie or take a walk). It helped me mentally clock out.

These habits didn’t just help me stay productive — they protected my mental health. They helped me build momentum, stay accountable, and grow consistently.

Tools That Made My Daily Habits Stick

It’s one thing to intend to build good habits — it’s another thing to sustain them. I quickly realized I needed more than discipline; I needed tools that could help automate, remind, and support my routines. Here are some of the most helpful tools and platforms that became part of my daily freelance flow:

1. Trello: My Digital Brain for Project Management
Whether I was working with one client or five, Trello helped me visualize my tasks using boards, lists, and cards. I created columns like “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Done” for each client. This gave me a quick overview of what needed attention each day. It’s free and very beginner-friendly.

2. Google Calendar: Time-Blocking My Week
I used Google Calendar to block out dedicated time for focused work, meetings, learning, and even rest. I color-coded each activity to make my week easy to scan at a glance. It helped me stop overbooking myself and build a sustainable schedule.

Pro tip: Add your focus work sessions as recurring events. It reinforces consistency.

3. Notion: All-in-One Workspace for Planning & Journaling
I use Notion as my journal, to-do list, “done list,” and learning tracker. Each day has its own page where I write:

• My 3 daily goals

• Any wins or lessons

• A gratitude entry

• Quick notes from client calls or trainings

It’s completely customizable, and you can find free Notion templates online tailored for freelancers.

4. Canva Pro: Elevating My Portfolio and Client Work
As a social media manager, Canva Pro is my go-to tool. I use it to design client posts, proposal attachments, and portfolio pieces. The content scheduler inside Canva also helped me streamline posts when managing multiple client accounts.

You can start with the free version, but upgrading to Pro unlocked more templates, brand kits, and tools that made my work stand out.

5. Grammarly: Keeping My Proposals Polished
When I first started writing proposals, typos would slip in — and that can hurt your credibility. Grammarly helped me sound professional and clear. It works as a browser extension and catches grammar, tone, and even plagiarism.

Clients notice well-written messages. It shows you’re serious about communication.

6. Pomofocus: Beating Procrastination with the Pomodoro Technique
This free timer helped me turn 4 hours of distracted work into 2 hours of deep focus. I used the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes work, 5 minutes break) to manage my energy better. Over time, I trained my brain to focus in short, productive sprints.

7. Coursera & LinkedIn Learning: Learning Made Easy and Credible
Each week, I reserved at least one block of time for learning. These platforms offered affordable (and sometimes free) courses that deepened my skills and gave me certifications I could proudly add to my profile.

Some courses I recommend:

• Meta Social Media Marketing Certificate

• Freelancing Tips for Success on LinkedIn Learning

8. ChatGPT: My Behind-the-Scenes Assistant
From proposal rewrites to brainstorming captions, ChatGPT became my virtual sidekick. I’d paste job descriptions and ask it to help craft personalized responses — and that alone improved my proposal success rate. It’s also great for idea generation when creating content calendars.

Building habits without support systems is like climbing a mountain barefoot. These tools became my “freelance toolkit” — helping me work smarter, stay focused, and present myself professionally.

Even if you’re starting with zero clients, using just a few of these tools can position you as a premium freelancer from day one.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Evolve

If I had stayed stuck chasing low-paying clients on Instagram, I might still be struggling today.
Taking the risk to move onto Upwork changed not just my income, but my entire mindset about what was possible.

The truth is: Your environment doesn't have to limit your success.
The global economy is open — and with determination, patience, and strategy, you can tap into it.

So whether you're a social media manager, a graphic designer, or any kind of digital freelancer, remember:
Your breakthrough might just be one brave decision away.