self employment

[flymetothemoon]

hello all.

Now I think I'm in the right place to ask this - are any of you self employed? and was it one hell of a challenge? I'm thinking about it, though in all honesty I'm not quite sure what I want to do. I'd appreciate feedback though.

[blondiebear]

I am self employed but it is only part time and it is sort of a hobby that has grown into a job. I am a seamstress working from home. I have a BA and MA in Geography with an emphasis in river and envvironmental issues. Had planned to be an environmentalist. Had health problems that are permanent changes. Doing environmental work is very difficult physically.

I worked in a fabric store for a year. The manager and coworkers at the fabric store suggested that I put my business cards in the file at the stores, where customers coming in can find someone to make stuff if they need it. I'm getting a reputation as someone who can solve problems and do prototypes. The people I used to work with at the fabric store are great about giving out my card and promoting my services. They let me know when I need to get more of my business cards to them for their file.

It was amazingly scary making the change. I thought about it for months. I have to be the one to promote myself and i'm very insecure. I'd rather that someone else promote me and then let me do the work. I've had to continue to learn on the job. I have to get projects done on time no matter what. I had significant health problems last summer and talked to regular clients and took the time off that I needed. I'm very moody and aside from a few client appointments I'm working alone so it doesn't matter what my moods are so long as I get the work done as promised.

I don't earn a lot of money. I have the flexibility to travel. I very much like what I do.

So pardon if this is too much info. If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me.

[nellasfelagund]

i reali want to be SE, if you live here in the UK there is a charoty called The Princes Trust, they help you with all that stuff.