Lost direction after freelance automation success - should I switch to software engineering?

Other Questions N8n
1

Hi there,

I’m a 22-year-old computer science student from Europe and I’m really confused about my career path right now. Over the last couple of years, I’ve been doing freelance work while studying, focusing on building automation solutions using tools like Make, Zapier, n8n, and some Python scripting.

At first everything was going amazing. I earned decent money through Upwork, created some really cool automated workflows for different companies, and gained a lot of hands-on experience that most of my classmates don’t have. I’ve been programming since I was around 15, so I know my way around various programming languages and development tools.

But then I made a big mistake and tried to grow my business too fast.

I ended up failing several courses at university because I was spending too much time trying to become a successful entrepreneur and freelancer. The stress from that really got to me. It’s especially hard when I see people I used to work with getting high-paying jobs at big tech companies while I’m still chasing small projects from overseas clients.

I know I have the technical skills to build things. I’ve created advanced automation systems, AI-powered tools, and custom software solutions. But I’m struggling with finding steady clients and growing my business. I’ve realized that just knowing how to code automations isn’t enough - I don’t really understand how to sell my services effectively or find the right market fit.

Right now I don’t have consistent income and I’m feeling pretty burned out from trying to promote myself online. I’m starting to question my whole approach:

  • Should I give up freelancing and focus on becoming a regular software developer instead?
  • What’s the best way to start over - practice coding challenges, apply for local development jobs, or try to get remote work?
  • Am I just experiencing burnout or is it actually time to change direction completely?

Here’s what I’m thinking:

  • Upwork was good for quick money but it’s not reliable long-term
  • Building a client base through networking and sales takes forever and I’m not motivated anymore
  • Local developer salaries aren’t great but maybe having a stable job would be better for my mental health
  • I really don’t enjoy the marketing and social media side of running a business

If I do decide to become a software engineer:

  • Is it worth finishing my degree?
  • Should I focus on algorithm practice and try to get remote positions?
  • Would it be better to specialize in something like backend development or stay more general?
  • Are there good opportunities in my region or should I look elsewhere?

I have some business connections from my freelance work and solid technical knowledge, but I’m missing clear goals and motivation to keep pushing forward.

Has anyone been in a similar situation or made the jump from freelance/agency work to traditional software development? Any advice would be really helpful.

Thanks!

2

Your automation experience is way more valuable than you think - companies are desperate for people who can streamline their processes. I hit the same wall about four years ago, totally burned out from chasing clients and pitching constantly. I stuck with freelancing but flipped my whole approach. Ditched Upwork and started hitting up mid-sized companies directly through LinkedIn and cold emails, focusing on their workflow automation headaches. The trick was becoming a specialist instead of just another generalist coder. That said, if you’re done with the business side, jumping into a software engineering role makes total sense. Your automation background will set you apart from other junior devs because you actually understand business processes, not just code. Most developers can write functions but can’t see how systems connect. Companies eat that up. About your degree - definitely finish it if you’re close. The credential matters way more in traditional jobs than freelancing. For specialization, your Python and automation skills are perfect for backend development or DevOps roles. Don’t stress about algorithm practice unless you’re targeting companies that actually require it.

3

Sounds like burnout, man. I hit the same wall doing freelance web dev around your age - was doing fine then just crashed. Took a regular dev job for 2 years to get steady income and clear my head. Sometimes you need that stability to figure out what you actually want. Definitely finish the degree though - opens doors later even if it feels pointless right now.

4

Had a similar experience three years back, except I was freelancing web dev instead of automation. The endless client hunt and unpredictable income burned me out - especially when I started bailing on personal stuff because of crazy deadlines. Switching to full-time software engineering? Best call I ever made. Steady paycheck killed the stress, and I could finally focus on getting better at coding instead of spending half my day on sales calls and project juggling. Your automation background’s actually gold - tons of companies need internal tools and workflow fixes. For your questions: finish that degree if you’re close. It’s a door opener even when the actual knowledge doesn’t matter. Backend dev’s got solid demand and your Python skills transfer perfectly. Algorithm grinding depends on who you’re targeting - startups don’t care about leetcode like FAANG does. You can always go back to freelancing later with real experience and industry contacts. Sometimes stepping back shows you the whole picture.