This past week, the world said goodbye to Dolly Parton, an icon in every sense of the word. A singer, actress, philanthropist, and so much more — everyone has something they can learn from Dolly’s artistry, entrepreneurship, and generosity — but these are three lessons freelancers in particular can take away from her legacy.

1. Some things can be just for you
   In an age of oversharing, where your story is often your calling card, it can feel like sharing every facet of your life is mandatory. Despite her fame and high visibility, Dolly managed to keep her husband Carl Dean out of the spotlight for the almost 60 years they were together. As freelancers, it’s natural to look for opportunities to use your life in your work, but let Dolly’s example show you that you don’t have to share something if it feels too personal, or will invite questions you don’t want to answer. It’s optional, not mandatory.
   
2. Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate
   You’ve heard it here before, and you’ll hear it here again. For freelancers, collaboration and community are everything. It’s who you commiserate with and learn from, and how you find new opportunities. Dolly was a prolific collaborator, recording duets with Porter Wagoner, Kenny Rogers, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt, and gifting other artists songs she’d written. Although Dolly had the star power to work solo, she always sought out partners, knowing together they were greater than the sum of their parts.
   
3. Know your worth
   That said, don’t be afraid to stick to your guns — particularly when your payday is on the line. When Elvis asked Dolly if he could record “I Will Always Love You”, he would only do it under the condition that he would own the publishing rights. Dolly was forced to say no, a decision that pained her, but was necessary in order to protect her bottom line. The decision to part with your IP might feel rewarding in the moment, but could lose you money in the future.
   

None of us can be Dolly Parton, but if we try to think like her, perhaps it'll land us our own Dolly-sized legacy.