Eva, I hear you. I have been in spots where Upwork terms and conditions seemed unhelpful. But it is the freelancer community that helped me to navigate this framework. You are in the right spot. Apart from me, other more experienced freelancers may have suggestions for you too. So please check back periodically.
1) Consider adding a video to your profile. When I looked at high earners in your field (e.g. Melissa, or Courtney), adding video seems to be a norm. If you disagree, you might want to change your title. I used your title to do a search and these freelancers showed up.
2) Consider adding more portfolio items. These items can be from your assignments on other platforms or sample assignments that you created solely for portfolio purposes. (Although Melissa and Courtney did not have an exhaustive portfolio, several other have 10+ items).
3) Consider developing catalog products/pre-packaged products. A potential client can reach you in three different ways- look at your profile and send you a direct message, Or they post a job and you respond to it. Or they look at a catalog product that you have and hire you. At present, you do not have catalog products. Connect with Upwork rep if you need more information about Catalogs. (I myself have not yet developed Catalog products due to technical glitches but I plan to do it during the Spring break.)
Hope this helps, I'm rooting for your success.
