work for yourself
fixed phrase.fixed phrase. to be your own boss and run your own business instead of being an employee for a company.
fixed phrase. to be self-employed; to operate as a freelancer or business owner rather than being employed by a third-party entity.
I decided to work for myself as a graphic designer.
After years of corporate life, she quit her job to work for herself and enjoy a more flexible schedule.
The rise of digital platforms has enabled many professionals to work for themselves, though they often trade job security for greater autonomy.
often used interchangeably with 'be self-employed' in general conversation.
contrast this with 'work for a company' to show the difference in prepositional objects; it is a useful phrase for discussing the 'gig economy' or entrepreneurship.
Last updated July 29, 2026