As many of you know, I started working as a freelance editor because I decided that the 9-5 just wasn’t for me. I needed to have a flexible schedule, control over my time, and the freedom to choose the people I would work with. I still have my days where working a job with set hours, a set paycheque, and a boss who gives me work sounds appealing, but for the most part, I know I’m a freelancer at heart.
That being said, not feeling constrained by my choice has been a challenge in the last year. The other day, I was offered an in-house position in my industry with a company I have been interested in working with for a long time. Before knowing the details of the offer, I started thinking about how part-time work in-house might be a nice change of pace. Turns out, the job was full-time, and I know that’s not what I want – that’s not what I’ve been working for for so long. It did get me thinking though.
Because building a successful business takes so much time and energy and sweat and tears and love, I’ve always told myself, “This is the career you’ve chosen for yourself, so suck it up and work with it, regardless of other opportunities that sound appealing.” I’ve recently realized how flawed this thinking is though. I choose to be a freelancer because above all, I want the freedom to make my own life. I want to dream big and do big. And if that means looking into projects or offers that may not exactly fit the mould I’m working with right now (within reason), that’s perfectly fine.
Don’t be afraid to stray off the path you’re carving out for yourself. It’s important to know your core values, and sometimes, you just have to struggle through periods of time when you’re not overly motivated in order to honour these values. But carefully consider new opportunities that come your way. Understand the big picture of your life and what you’re working towards. You just never know where a certain decision might lead you.
This week’s goal: Prioritize.
Song of the week: “Softer than Science” – Big Troubles
Namaste 
Rachel
Freedom!
Freelancing to Freedom 
Paths we’ve chosen are usually flat, without borders or walls, which allow us to come and go, that is the beauty of simply living… Thank you Rachel.
By: bawbsravenfeathers on April 2, 2012
at 12:51 pm
I like that image – thanks BawB!
By: faultlessfinish on April 3, 2012
at 4:19 pm
Great blog this week Rachel. Funny thing – I just recently went through the same thing. I was offered a partnership in a company I had done some work previously. Although enticing I had to look at the bigger picture in my life’s plans. You are right, however, in not automatically saying ‘no’ to these opportunities. As luck would have it I’m at a point in my company where I have to decide to either maintain the current level or increase – basically go big or go home. It’s an exciting crossroads to be at. I’ve decided to go for it. I’m excited about the possibilities.
Good luck with whatever you decide!
Thanks again for the weekly motivations.
Cheers!
By: CRAIG on April 2, 2012
at 1:57 pm
Thanks so much Craig! And good luck with your new opportunity – a crossroad can be a great thing 🙂
By: faultlessfinish on April 3, 2012
at 4:22 pm
Defined by our choices or defining our choices, never an easy balance to find. Interesting to look at things from new perspectives, it keeps us honest.
Jim
By: redjim99 on April 2, 2012
at 9:29 pm
Very true, Jim – its important to always evaluate and never get complacent. Thanks for reading!
By: faultlessfinish on April 3, 2012
at 4:23 pm
I agree, we need to look at opportunities carefully and follow our hearts. I think you’ve chosen the right path!
By: Victoria-writes on April 3, 2012
at 9:16 am
Thanks so much, Victoria! You as well 🙂
By: faultlessfinish on April 3, 2012
at 4:24 pm
That’s so great that you’re able to work as a freelance editor. I’d love to do that! Right now I’m working a 9-5 job as a writer and do freelance editing on the side.
By: thoughtsappear on April 11, 2012
at 7:06 pm
That’s great you’re finding time to do both! What kind of writing do you do? Thanks for reading 🙂
By: faultlessfinish on April 12, 2012
at 1:28 pm