Why I Left Disney for a Freelance Career on Fiverr Earning Over $900,000

In 2011, I joined Disney through an eight-month stint as an intern cast member, driven by the dream of returning upon graduation and advancing within the company.

A memorable childhood visit to Disneyland, where Mickey Mouse acknowledged me, solidified my deep connection with Disney — a bond that propelled me up the ranks to a senior manager role in Human Resources.

From Furlough to Freelancing

When the pandemic hit in 2020, I faced furlough as the theme parks shut down, turning to Fiverr to occupy my time with freelance work.

Remarkably, within a year, my Fiverr profits surpassed my Disney salary. While my last paycheck at Disney was over $60,000, I've accumulated more than $900,000 from 2020 to now.

Starting Small on Fiverr

Early on, my Fiverr journey in 2020 was slow, yielding no more than $5,000 per month. But by 2021, orders surged.

Initially, my services were priced at $5 for a résumé, scaling up to $20 for a complete package including LinkedIn optimization. Nowadays, average orders are valued at approximately $140.

My operating costs remain minimal, covering software utilities and a modest setup, while Fiverr retains a 20% service fee.

A Leap of Faith

Freelancing wasn't initially about financial gain; it was meant to be a pandemic pastime. Only after realizing its profitability did I choose this path over returning to Disney.

Leaving Disney was daunting. I risked everything I’d accomplished and cherished to tackle the uncertainty of entrepreneurship.

Adjusting to Freelance Life

In March 2021, when invited back to Disney, I had to decline. The news surprised my boss, but she responded with understanding.

Accepting life as a freelancer has been intimidating yet rewarding, as every success and failure now solely depends on my efforts.

The Benefits of Freelancing

Freelancing offers boundless freedom of time and place. Whether working domestically in different states or internationally during travel, my office is wherever I bring my laptop.

While Disney functioned within a traditional, insular framework, freelancing has allowed exposure to various industries and professionals, expanding my perspective.

Balancing Challenges

Freelancing starts demanding and requires establishing a balanced rhythm amidst the metrics Fiverr uses, like customer satisfaction and timely deliveries.

Despite the initial challenges, the path has grown more manageable over time, requiring personal commitments to ensure growth and stability.

Advice for Aspiring Freelancers

For budding freelancers on platforms like Fiverr, leveraging personal strengths is crucial. Reflect on your unique abilities, juxtaposed with competitors, and seek niche innovations.

Also, focus on impactful outcomes. While a résumé seems simple, its potential to enhance job searches and boost salaries is significant.