exercise

I want to talk about something that nearly every freelancer has faced at some point, maybe even before officially diving into freelance life. It often starts with excitement. You’ve made the bold choice to pursue your own path. You share the news with friends and family. You get some love. Some support. Maybe even a few “I’ve always thought you were entrepreneurial” comments.

And then… you hit resistance.

Not always hostility, but uncertainty. Doubt. Concern. Questions like:

“What about paid vacation?”
“How will you get by without benefits?”
“What if you get sick?”
“Are you sure this is sustainable?”

Sound familiar?

The dreaded, unwanted, unsolicited career advice.

Our loved ones care deeply about us. If they’ve spent their entire lives in salaried positions, it’s natural for them to project those experiences—and fears—onto us. What we see as freedom, they sometimes see as instability. The disconnect can lead to strain, especially if they don’t understand how freelance revenue generation works or if they view entrepreneurship as a glorified side hustle.

So, how do we stay grounded in our career choice without alienating the people who just want us to succeed?

First, Let’s Talk About the Awkward Conversations

Ever tried explaining freelance life to someone who’s only ever had a 9-5 job?

They smile politely when you mention “flexible hours,” but their eyes glaze over once you dive into taxes, client acquisition, the lack of sick days, and how your business expenses are still your expenses because you are the business. Suddenly, you’re left in the corner of the family BBQ explaining deductions to the potato salad.

It’s OK. They still love you. They just don’t get it—yet.

Here are a few things that can help:

1. Come Prepared with Calm, Clear Responses

Anticipate the usual questions. Rather than arriving on the defensive, arm yourself with thoughtful counterpoints. Share stories about how you’ve handled difficult situations. Reassure them with real examples of how your business works and how you’re making it thrive.

2. Know That You’ll Need to Explain It More Than Once

Auntie might not remember your job title. Mom tells everyone “she works with computers,” even if you’re not a programmer, but because you carry around a laptop.  That’s fine. Be ready to explain again, and again. It’s not a sign of disrespect—it’s just unfamiliar terrain for them.

3. Talk About Your Work with Pride and Transparency

Most people are fascinated when they hear about the behind-the-scenes. Talk about a client you helped, a campaign you brought to life, or a creative solution you implemented. When you share stories, you bring your world to life, and you build credibility.

4. Set Respectful Boundaries

You don’t need to justify your existence. Listen with respect, but expect the same in return. If someone is being particularly insistent or dismissive, it’s OK to disengage. Politely change the subject, or excuse yourself entirely. Your business is your business.

And Now, Let’s Loosen Up – Literally

As freelancers, we spend a lot of time at desks, in booths, or glued to our screens. That tension we feel in our bodies? It’s real, and it’s not helping our confidence or clarity.

This week, on the Freelance Fitness podcast, I’m coaching upper body mobility. No equipment needed. Just a place to stand and move freely.

This is your chance to reset—physically and mentally.

You’ve Got This.

Freelancing isn’t for everyone—but it is for you. And just like in mobility training, progress comes from consistency, clarity, and a willingness to stretch your limits.

You are strong. You are capable. And you don’t need anyone’s permission to pursue the life you’re building.

Now go shake out those shoulders and take on the rest of your day like the boss you are.

I don’t know about you, but I struggled with impostor syndrome for years.

It took me ages before I would tell people I was a voice over artist when people asked me what I did.

Or get business cards. Or hand them out after I got them, and instead, hide them in a secret inner pocket of my purse next to my lack of self-worth.

But you know what? I am a voice over artist. And my clients are happy to work with me, and it’s how I earn a living. So I should be proud of my career and be at ease talking about myself.

But instead I would change the topic. Or if I mentioned my career, it was always by diminishing myself in some way. Like saying that it was part-time or a side-hustle even when I was full-time. I didn’t feel like I deserved to claim that. No matter how many hours I put in. It was like, if someone else didn’t give me that title, then it couldn’t be true.

I didn’t feel like I belonged in the same room as “those people”.

You know, those people with salaries, and regular paycheques, benefits, PTO, and shiny business cards given to them by HR and not self-designed and printed up at Staples like mine. But, that’s easier said than done, right?

So why don’t we use some hip and spine mobility exercises to help us get more comfortable in our bodies and be more at ease stretching out into the freelance space we have every right to claim.

This week in Freelance Fitness we explore lower back and hip mobility to some great jazz music, while I talk myself out of hiding behind potted plants at networking events. If you also struggle with imposter syndrome, maybe you should check it out!

Work hard, and rest well.