A freelance lifestyle isn’t for everyone. But, if you are dissatisfied with your current career, you might want to try it. Here are some of the pros that work for me in my freelance lifestyle:

Flexibility and Autonomy (being in control). I love having the flexibility of doing what I want and need to do, when I want to do it. I can work late into the night, early in the morning, or all afternoon. It is up to me. As part of my schedule, I teach fitness classes most mornings, so work my projects and meetings around those classes. I also like the flexibility that comes with taking on projects that I enjoy, and turning down those that don’t appeal to me.

Creativity and Change. By working in a variety of areas and for a variety of clients, I have the opportunity to approach each project with a fresh burst of creativity. It keeps me filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and energy which when combined really pay off for the client too. Even when I am hired by the same client again and again, the type of projects usually change.

Achievement, Development of Expertise, and Mastery of Many Skills. Being a lifelong learner, I am delighted when hired to tackle a new project that involves upgrading my expertise and skills. Also, whenever I am between projects, and even when I am in the middle of them, I continually take classes and work on achieving new levels of expertise. In addition, seeing a project through to completion gives one a great sense of accomplishment.

Pleasure of Doing What One Likes. There are so many benefits to pursuing what we like and love to do. I feel that it strengthens our emotional and physical health, gives meaning to our lives, and adds to our growth as a human being. I am not a millionaire financially, but I can honestly say that as a free agent and independent professional, I go to bed at night smiling and I get up in the morning excited and happy to start all over again.

Chris King is a free agent, professional speaker, storyteller, writer, website creator / designer, and fitness instructor. Chris has what she calls a “Portfolio Career” --many careers at the same time. If you wonder if you could handle and love having a “Portfolio Career” you will find a free assessment to take at http://www.creativekeys.net/portfoliocareertest.htm Sign up for her eclectic E-newsletter, Portfolio Potpourri, at http://www.freelanceliving.com You will find Chris’ business website at http://www.creativekeys.biz

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