Full Time Freelancer Motivation and Risk Management

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Committee Chair

Kathy Richie

Committee Member

Linda Locke

Committee Member

David Mccurry

Abstract

Over the past two decades, freelancing has become an increasingly prominent feature of the modern labor market, reshaping how professionals experience career development, autonomy, and economic security. As more individuals transition from traditional employment to independent work, they assume greater responsibility for managing professional and financial risk. Despite the growth of freelancing, limited qualitative research has explored how full-time freelancers interpret their motivations and sustain their careers over time. The purpose of this hermeneutic phenomenological study was to examine the lived experiences of individuals who transitioned from traditional employment to full-time freelancing, with particular attention to motivations and risk-management strategies. Guided by the boundaryless careers framework, the study explored how freelancers construct sustainable careers outside organizational structures. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 30 full-time freelancers from diverse professional backgrounds. Transcripts were analyzed using iterative, inductive coding supported by qualitative data analysis software. Six themes emerged: autonomy and life design; motivations for leaving traditional employment; building stability through risk management; identity development and confidence; navigating clients and policy pressures; and reluctance to return to traditional employment. Findings suggest that freelancing functions as an intentional, values-driven career strategy characterized by self-authorship, adaptive risk management, and evolving professional identity. These results extend boundaryless career theory and offer practical implications for organizations, policymakers, and individuals navigating contemporary career transitions.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS