Why It Is Time I Fire Myself

I have decided it is the time that I fire myself. I have been working at the same job for too long. It is time for a fresh start.

I know a bit harsh, and you are likely wondering how can I fire myself?

Many people stay stuck in their jobs for too long. Whether it is out of comfort or complacency, the results are the same. The same goes for those of us that are generous with our talents. We give away products or services to help someone out. Or perhaps it is so you can gain experience yourself.

What the poop! (stole it from a friend of mine) Are you crazy? 

Time is money and generous or not there comes a time when the gravy train needs to come to a screeching halt. There is a misnomer out there that freelance means free. Hate to rain on your parade but umm yeah ‘no.’

You work hard for your money as do we. Freelance means we have more freedom to serve the clients we choose rather than being tied to a paycheck. That is not to say we don’t want and expect to be paid. Nor does it give you the right or freedom to ask us to do so.

Therefore, I have decided it is the time I fire myself. I resign to the fact that I will no longer work for free. There is no such thing as friends or family discounts. This point forward you get what you pay for and nothing less. You don’t shop at your favorite store or go out to eat expecting it to be free. Why then would you hire a professional to do work you need to be done and assume they will do it for free.

Sure there are instances where perhaps a non-profit needs work done and service are offered. That is called volunteering not freelancing. There is a big difference between the two.

I have written my resignation letter and prepared myself for the next step in my journey. I am ready to fire myself from the position I currently occupy. Could this have turned to a paying gig? Sure! But truth be told it has not yet, so the likelihood of change now is slim.

It is best we go our separate ways, I bid you adieu. Next time you need some work done, hopefully, their time will be of better value to you.

Now it’s your turn, have you ever done work for free and then found it difficult to either ask for compensation or fire yourself? I would love to hear your story, as freelancers, we need to stick together and quit working for free.