Unfortunate Policy #8: The Freedom of Choice

This is not a political rant, though it's nicely timed with a major birthday for our country which always prompts me to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy.

I especially love the freedom of expression.  Our industry is full of options that we can express ourselves and make money while doing it (win-win!)  Moreover, we've grown organically (and carefully!) over the last 27 years, so it's wonderful to have the blessing of being able to choose good opportunities over "gotta make the buck" desperate options.  This leads me to what may be a contradiction in terms.

It seems counter-capitalist to turn down work, but sometimes the balance is more important.  Besides, you would be hard-pressed to find any business that didn't reserve its rights and even "fire a customer" here and there, especially one that didn't align with their values.  

And when you've reached a certain level of your own definition of success, paid your dues, "eaten a lot of dirt" and still retain a bit of humility (keep learning, always!) shouldn't you have the right to say "sorry, not interested" or "sorry, not available" - even if you may be interested AND available?

This isn't about getting tired or passing the torch, it's more about establishing what the market should be and forcing the client base to rise to certain standards and in a sense, enjoy certain expectations.   Fighting the status quo and defying stereotypes can be a beautiful thing.   I'm thankful that we have the option in this great country of ours.