This was an awesome read Michael! You’re right, our words have power! I never thought about the word “free” being in freelancers but it does make sense. I feel like freelancer is played out to be honest. It’s basically another word for a single, hourly rate, employee that makes pennies on the dollar from their house instead of a facility. Saying I’m a business owner increases my leverage substantially and it builds confidence showing that you aren’t going to move off that specific price. Plus, it allows you to make better and more unique offers. That’s something I realized quickly as a ghostwriter. Thank you so much for sharing this! Your newsletter is awesome by the way! Just subscribed! ❤️💪
Great point! I’ve never thought of solopreneurs/business owners and freelancers as the same thing, but I’m glad you highlighted this distinction. It really does matter how you define yourself. By the way, I loved your 5-part email series on starting a business!
This is so useful. I'm very big on language and believe in the power of words.
One of my corporate sessions is actually on inclusive language and using principles such as neutrality and accuracy to speak in a way that people feel included.
I'm not a fan of the word freelancer either. It has a very transactional connotation: you pay, get what you want and go.
I would much rather use words that have a transformational connotation: coach, partner, stakeholder, etc.
This was good. Very well written with perfect flow. Just the right amount of personal experience and argumentation. Well done
This was an awesome read Michael! You’re right, our words have power! I never thought about the word “free” being in freelancers but it does make sense. I feel like freelancer is played out to be honest. It’s basically another word for a single, hourly rate, employee that makes pennies on the dollar from their house instead of a facility. Saying I’m a business owner increases my leverage substantially and it builds confidence showing that you aren’t going to move off that specific price. Plus, it allows you to make better and more unique offers. That’s something I realized quickly as a ghostwriter. Thank you so much for sharing this! Your newsletter is awesome by the way! Just subscribed! ❤️💪
Great point! I’ve never thought of solopreneurs/business owners and freelancers as the same thing, but I’m glad you highlighted this distinction. It really does matter how you define yourself. By the way, I loved your 5-part email series on starting a business!
This is so useful. I'm very big on language and believe in the power of words.
One of my corporate sessions is actually on inclusive language and using principles such as neutrality and accuracy to speak in a way that people feel included.
I'm not a fan of the word freelancer either. It has a very transactional connotation: you pay, get what you want and go.
I would much rather use words that have a transformational connotation: coach, partner, stakeholder, etc.
Thought-provoking post, as always!
100%! I don’t freelance, I’m a premium ghostwriter. Language changes everything, including your mindset. You’re a business owner, not an employee.
You have a way of talking to me directly as if we're sitting together having an espresso.
I'm really glad I discovered your substack. You never waste my time.
Oooh I loved this bc I felt a little fire in my belly as I read through.🔥
Great information, Michael. I have restacked and cross-posted this valuable article!