Thread by @tom_hirst

This year, I'm in control of my time.

Meaning:

I can use all of it to make "bets" with.

I can work for money if I want.

Or I can do stuff that's primarily fun, interesting and fulfilling instead.

It's freeing, yet I feel less productive.

It's a strange transition.

You're not always as in control as you think as a freelancer.

When you need the money and/or sign long-term agreements, control is a facade.

You take the project because the bills need paying.

You sign the deal because it brings security.

At a cost of your autonomy.

In one light, having decisions made for you is easier.

"I'm working for this client today, cool."

Being self-motivated is a key trait of independent workers.

It's an even bigger key trait of people with time.

The takeaway from this thought dump is:

It's not as simple as quitting your job and being free;

You need money in the bank.

You need to work hard and smart for a long-time.

You need to create a consistent pipeline of opportunity for yourself.

True-time control takes... time.

And when you do gain control of your time,

Prepare to wrestle with choice,

Prepare to realign your balance.

Being able to bet with the entirety of your time isn't as straightforward as you might think.

Related:

tomhirst.com/betting-with-t…