Issue 12 - Freelancer or Entrepreneur: Distinction without a Difference?  November 3rd 2022

Freelancer, Entrepreneur: The Same or Different?

I had a discussion recently with another freelancer about the difference between an entrepreneur and a freelancer. He said it was semantics. My opinion differed.

In my view, an entrepreneur is someone who wants to build and grow a company — read that as making millions, having employees, etc. On the other hand, a freelancer is a person who works independently providing services to said entrepreneurs and business owners. (In the spirit of camaraderie, we compromised on the term solopreneur.)

Some years ago, I tried the company-building route and nearly lost my shirt. It took months to recoup my investment. Now, I wear the freelancer moniker happily. It's the suit that fits best.

However, there is one clear similarity between the two — both need tenacity, the ability to hang in there when times get tough.

Clients come and go, income ebbs and flows. You have to be able to not lose faith in your vision during the hard times, regardless of which term you label yourself.

Such is the case with me. I wrapped up a couple of freelance projects and had nothing in the queue to take their place, not immediately, at least. I knew work was coming, I just didn't know when. As a result, the coffers were bear.

In the past, I might have given up and started job hunting. No longer. I've been at this long enough to read the tides, so to speak. And as I suspected, new projects and clients are coming my way.

So, how do you see yourself? As an entrepreneur or freelancer? One is not better than the other, just different... or not. (Reply to this email to let me know your thoughts.)

Paul Chaney