Freelancing to Freedom

Everyone chooses a profession based on some type of motivation. In North American society, the overwhelming motivators seem to be money and the desire to succeed. Last weekend, I had an interesting conversation with a friend about whether I was economics driven or goal driven. When I asked him to elaborate on those terms, he replied, “Well, let’s put it this way. Would you do what you’re doing right now for no money?” I’ll admit, I hesitated for a few seconds before replying “yes.”

“Then you’re goal driven,” he replied. I started to think about exactly what goal I was driven by. It didn’t take long to figure it out; after all, I named my blog after it: freedom. More than anything, I want the freedom to make my own schedule, spend time with the people I love, and live the ultimate life. Life is too short to work yourself to the bone at a job you despise.

Obviously I need to make money as an editor, and I won’t pretend that money isn’t a driving factor in my business, but editing is something I genuinely enjoy doing. Every time I sit down with a new manuscript, I get tingles of excitement. I am motivated and inspired by my job and the freedom it provides.

I used to be driven by security. I liked the idea of working 9-5 for a steady paycheque. Of course, there are still days when whispers of doubt creep in and I wonder if going freelance was the best decision. Ask any freelancer and I’m sure he or she will tell you the same thing. I just have to remind myself of the driving forces behind my decision, however, and the whispers are soon silenced.

So what drives you and your business? Is it something that will drive you for years to come?

Happy freelancing!