Having done both, I can tell you that freelancing definitely affords more autonomy than traditional 9 to 5 Jobs. But then, in order to succeed and make a full-time living as a Freelancer, you need to wear a lot of hats. You should have the ability to put yourself on a schedule, constantly keep yourself updated, learn how to communicate effectively with clients, etc. I don't think the more skilled freelancers worry less about metrics because everyone gets difficult clients, periods when algo is not in your favour etc but you just need to know how to deal with it. It matters how you respond to a negative review, how you learn new things on your field - Essentially how well you bounce back.
Also, I feel like in a traditional job setting, you're a cog in the wheel. That could get a little discouraging when you don't know what you're working towards 8 hours a day, everyday. But as a freelancer, you know exactly what you're supposed to do. I cannot tell you how freeing that is. 🙃