How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Join The Gig Economy

"Stop looking for a job."

That's what Diane Mulcahy tells students sitting in her MBA classes at Babson College. Instead of applying for a conventional 9-to-5 job, she is telling students to look for work as freelancers and members of the gig economy, because that's where real growth is happening.

Research shows that Mulcahy is right about growth. According to a study from the Freelancers Union and Upwork, 53 million Americans, or about 34 percent of the total workforce, are now freelancing either on a full-time or a part-time basis. And while some workers point to the flexibility of their schedules, others are frustrated with work that doesn't come with benefits or a predictable income.

Diane Mulcahy, adjunct lecturer at Babson College, where she created and teaches an MBA class on the gig economy, and author of "The Gig Economy: The Complete Guide to Getting Better Work, Taking More Time Off, and Financing the Life You Want." She tweets @dianemulcahy.