My So-Called Freelance Life is written by full-time freelancer Michelle Goodman. At the time this book was published in 2008, Michelle had more than 15 years of experience under her belt. In this one, she provides tips and advice on how to set yourself up for success in the freelance world.
This book is divided up into three sections. Section One is about how to adjust to a work from home (WFH) lifestyle after working the typical 9-to-5 job. Section Two goes into how to market yourself effectively using social networking, both online and in person. Section Three is about how to balance and manage your career once you’re up and running, and your freelance business is thriving.
There are also other good tips in here that are timeless, such as, how to go about establishing your rates, building clientele, and managing your taxes.
My So-Called Freelance Life is probably ideal for those who are just starting out as freelance workers. I’d say a lot of it is common knowledge, but it’s worth skimming through. I like how it goes into great detail about the procedures for setting up a sole-proprietor business, freelance or not.
Pros to reading My So-Called Freelance Life:
- It highlights the importance of doing your taxes properly.
- It teaches how to weed out scams and fake gigs.
- Much of this book provides timeless advice.
Cons to reading this book:
- Many URLs are broken, out of date, or no longer exist.
- Some social networking best practices are no longer valid or applicable.
- It came out in 2008 and the freelance landscape is far different today.
This book was really useful to me when I started my own freelance career and this website in 2010. Thank you, Michelle.
Michelle Goodman has also written The Anti 9 to 5 Guide: Practical Career Advice for Women Who Think Outside the Cube (2010).
Did you read this book and if so, what did you think?
Last Updated on January 19, 2026 by Sarah Ann
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