Expert: DJ Murphy - 9/11/2004

Question
I want to pursue my dream, so I start my own design service, I enjoy doing design work, but connect with right clients is very hard.  Most of people do not respect my design work, no matter what I say, they only concern about price, some people cheated me, some ignored me.  I only have few pleasant experience, the rest are all nightmares.  I spend lots of time and energy search for clients, extra long meeting, study, research… the rewards is so little.  I am a sensitive person, I cannot be super sales.  

After few months of working alone, I totally lose energy, I think about working for company again, the life is much simple there.   

What is wrong when I work for myself? I believe I always think positive. Can you analyze me and give me direction?


Answer
Hello JJ,

This isn't really in my field of expertise.......especially the psychological part.  Anyway many cliches come to mind......"nothing worth anything is easy."

Working for one self has an enormous upside.......whatever energy you expend.....is for your own betterment, satisfaction, and reward.  Working for another has security [although somewhat limited in today's market place] benefits, and direction.  So it is a consideration of what your personal goals should be.  

Can you get a part time position as a designer with a firm or company.....and then do "freelance" on the side, so you can pursue both opportunities.

Some people are natural at being self employed. Perhaps your nature is to work in a more structured environment.  

I think you have taken a good first step....in recognizing you have a problem.  The second step is to lay out all your options......and then make a plan.

Best wishes,

dj murphy