As a freelancer, I’m often told I’m part of a team. It’s a good feeling. But it’s only temporary. Even if I’ve been working for a client for years. Which is as it should be.

When I first started out, I would feel a bit lost when a project or working relationship ended. A bit flat.

But that was missing the point. I’m a freelancer because I wouldn’t want to work for just one company.

And my clients work with me precisely because I’m not them. I bring fresh energy, fresh enthusiasm for who they are and what they do – otherwise I can’t work for them. And I bring fresh insight. From a slight distance.

Good freelancers are team players but our real value is in not being part of the team.