So, back to the Wednesday post: I try to pay attention when Life is smacking me upside the head about something. This past week it was all about Shaping the Life You Are Living.
I was led to read a couple of manifestos on the topic of exiting the traditional work-world, a.k.a.: Jail, for those who might otherwise truly flourish given the freedom to pursue their own Thing on their own Timetables. My particular brand of ESP has been bubbling up a lot the last few months around this idea, too, so I know I am closer to taking action on it. (Don't ask; this is just the way I was wired. ;))
Before I decide whether I am ready to jump ship, I would love more information from people already in the water. Please feel free to answer any one, two, or all of the points below, if you would be so kind. :)
How Did You Do It? How Do You Do It? How Do You Do?
- I wonder what it is that makes some people just know from the outset (or if they jump ship at some later point) that the traditional 9-to-5 is never ever going to fit their lives, and what happens to or around them when they make that known. What is the range of reactions people have to their choice not to be part of "the system"?
- I wonder if they had some sort of financial security going into their off-the-beaten-path ventures, or whether they had 'not a pot to piss in', starting off.
- What formal education (or lack thereof) did they set off with, and do they use that in their non-cubicle life's work?
- Are there more sharks or dolphins in the waters of self-employment? (This can be people or unpleasant details you were not aware you would have to manage.)
- I wonder what it is exactly, that these adventurous people are doing as their Thing, and how satisfied they are with it and whether they are making a reasonable living (just for the sake of discussion, let's call that at least $50k a year.)
2 comments:
You could offer computer services for seniors, if you like seniors. (G) There's a huge market, and a lot of technicians are not equipped with small important features like patience, empathy, and the ability to use smallish words. I have a computer store, and I have a lot clients who are seniors because I take the time they need to understand. That is not to say they are necessarily my most profitable clients, but there is a market, and they spread the word for free.
Being self-employed for 15-odd years, I'm not sure if I recommend it or not. There's no health or dental. There are no vacations, unless your business lends itself to week-long absences. There is a sense of accomplishement, but there is a whole lot of WTF too. We started when we were 21 years old, and had no pot to piss in. We had nothing to lose. I'm not sure if I'd take the same chance, today.
Thanks for this, Cindy. As with anyone else, it depends on the senior. ;) I do have lots of patience, though, so that's a good suggestion.
Lots of good points to think about; insurance and vacations are big considerations, for sure. And the WTF, of course. lol
I had no idea you started your business so young. I'm impressed!
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