Breaking Down the "Free" in Freelancing

Did you know that the term freelance originated as two separate words? A free lance (noun) was a man (sorry, ladies) that was available for hire as a lancer (in a sword fight). This fact was brought to you by the letter "Z". Ok, so that's not what you came here for, huh? Well, I thought it was a cool fact to share...

At any rate, now we view a freelancer as a man or woman (YAY for equal rights!) who works independently. Sometimes you can be called an independent contractor or self-employed, but they all essentially mean the same thing.

So... why the term freelancer? I'm not entirely sure where the "lancer" part comes into play (this post is about the "free" part anyway), but "free" can equate to a lot of things in an independent workers lifestyle.

Let me count the ways (or at least the first five):

1. Schedule freedom: Remember those days of punching the clock? You know how you used to wait on someone else's move? Yeah, forget those days. Feel "free" to pick your own schedule - whether consists of early morning hours, late night hours, or something in between. Need a vacation day? Take one (provided it doesn't interfere with client commitments).
2. Freedom from micromanagement: That boss that used to watch your every move while breathing down your neck? They're history! You now manage yourself.
3. Freedom from barriers to entry: Have you dreamed of being a web designer but don't have any experience? Now's the time to break in. You don't have to wait get a job, you can start building your portfolio right now.
4. Freedom from dress codes: Only own one shirt/tie that you recycle day in and day out? Do your dress shoes leave your feet blistered and uncomfortable? Ditch the dress code for your PJs (we'll even throw in your slippers!).
5. Freedom to explore the world on your terms: Want to move from the USA to Canada or vice versa (or really anywhere in the world)? Tired of your job "relocating" you? Travel wherever a plane (or train, or car) can take you. Just be sure to take your computer along so that you can keep in touch with your work.

Is that free enough for you?

Posted in: freelancing