On today’s show, I discuss the current state of freelancing, which includes massive layoffs and shuttered clients in the media and tech world. But even if that isn’t affecting you — maybe you’re even having your best year yet — you need to be prepared for the lean times and to set up your business to lessen the risk of feast-or-famine. That includes setting yourself apart, diversifying, always marketing, and more.  Here’s what I share with you in this episode: The number of layoffs in the media industry in the past year.  The hits in the tech industry.  The number of freelancers in the U.S. — the highest number in history.  Should you panic — or investigate and embrace opportunities?  How to be a “futurist” for your industry and why that’s important.  Reflecting on whether your skills need to improve.  How to set yourself apart from the competition.  How to “bridge” to new projects and services.  Why setting and tracking monthly income goals is crucial.  At least 10 marketing ideas to try right now.  When to raise your rates.  Biz Bite: Organize your tasks into front stage and back stage. The Bookshelf: “Nightwatching” by Tracy Sierra Resources: Support Deliberate Freelancer at Buy Me a Coffee Join the discussion in the Deliberate Freelancer Facebook group Episode #64 of Deliberate Freelancer: Using a “freakout” protocol to get work now, with Austin Church Episode #180 of Deliberate Freelancer: How to Crush Your Fear of Self-Promotion and Get Clients Now, with C.J. Hayden Episode #116 of Deliberate Freelancer: How to Create Case Studies to Land New Clients, with Emma Siemasko Episode #160 of Deliberate Freelancer: The Dreaded Feast or Famine! Episode #54 of Deliberate Freelancer: Think Digital First and Other Ways to Make Money Now Episode #53 of Deliberate Freelancer: Pivoting and Finding Resilience C.J. Hayden blog post “Avoiding the Feast or Famine Trap for Your Business” MBO Partners “State of Independence in America 2023” report “New Study Reveals Surge in Six-Figure Earners” Connect with Melanie on Threads @MelEdits_DC Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn