If you’re interested in having a bit more control and freedom in your professional life, freelancing is an attractive option.

Upwork’s recent annual report on freelancing in the U.S. found that 56.7 million Americans freelanced in 2018—an increase of 3.7 million people from 2014.

The freelance community is certainly growing. Statista, a business data platform, predicts that by 2028 that number will increase to over 86 million.

With these large numbers, it’s imperative to prepare yourself to freelance and freelance well. Use this guide to understand what freelancing is, how to find companies and jobs hiring, and the characteristics needed to succeed as a freelancer.