From 9-5 Burnout to Freelance Freedom: How Shruti Built a 5-Figure Online Business from Scratch

In this episode, Shruti shares how she went from burned-out corporate employee to building a thriving freelance business with no prior experience. She breaks down how she found success on Upwork, became a Certified Online Business Manager, and now helps entrepreneurs grow sustainably—without relying on social media fame.

Social Media Decoded

June 4, 202519m 34s

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Show Notes

Are you stuck in a 9-5, dreaming of building a profitable online business—but not sure where to start? In this powerful episode of Social Media Decoded, host Michelle Thames sits down with Shruti, the founder of Thriving Mondays and a Certified Online Business Manager, to share how she left her corporate job with zero experience and built a 5-figure freelancing business from her bedroom in India.

With over 100 clients and a Top-Rated Plus badge on Upwork, Shruti spills the secrets to growing a successful freelance business without relying on social media followers, a YouTube channel, or going viral.

Whether you're a virtual assistant, aspiring freelancer, or overwhelmed CEO wondering if it’s time to hire an OBM—this episode is packed with practical tips and real-life inspiration.

What You’ll Learn:

How Shruti quit her corporate job with no backup plan
Her exact steps to landing clients on Upwork with zero experience
What a Certified Online Business Manager (OBM) actually does
How to scale a freelance business into consistent 5-figure months
Tips to avoid burnout, set boundaries, and stay motivated
The difference between hiring a VA vs. OBM for sustainable business growth

Guest Info:

Shruti – Founder of Thriving Mondays

Episode Quote to Share:

"You don’t need to go viral to make money online—you just need the right skills and the courage to start." – Shruti

how to start freelancing
freelance business tips
Upwork success strategy
how to find clients on Upwork
virtual assistant vs online business manager
building a business from home
quitting your job to freelance
OBM for entrepreneurs
online business systems and strategy

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