I think, like most things, most of this stuff is case-sensitive. If the situation resonates with you, then the experience of what happened is valuable.

It sounds like you already have your mind made up and you've committed yourself to making the leap. Lots of people aren't there yet.

As for freelancing - your best bet is hitting the pavement and meeting people. People tend to kick jobs to friends or people they personally have connected with.

First step might be to, instead of waiting for work to bang on the door, open the door and go out and get it :)