Oct 11 2009
Setting Your Own Schedule
My horseback riding instructor and I have one thing in common: We’re both self-employed. Today we were talking about how much we love it that we can set our own schedules.
If this is something that is important for you in your career — being able to set your own schedule — you can plan your education with this goal in mind. Think of your interests, and then try to brainstorm ways that you could turn these into your own small business.
For example, my instructor both teaches horseback riding lessons and trains horses. She does work with an established lesson barn, but many of her lessons — like the ones she give me — are also via her own business. Her background is extensive — she has been riding since she was a kid, and she also went to college to learn how to train horses.
As another example, I got my degree in English with a concentration in literature. After a year or so as a technical writer, I realized this was something I could do on my own, and I’ve been freelancing ever since.
Your niche doesn’t have to match either of ours. For instance, if you have an interest in the culinary arts, you could attend a cooking school to add to your knowledge and refine your techniques. With that degree, you could open your own catering business, bakery, or write a recipe book.
There is a way to turn just about any interest or education into a small business opportunity. Do you have any ideas for what YOU might be interested in doing?
This is a great article. I think there is nothing like setting your own schedule. It gives people a sense of “free” and really displays a high quality of life. My Uncle was a business owner for many years and he set his own schedule, went on vacations when he wanted and loved been the decision-maker.
Oh my… I know just what you mean we’re in the same boat… just feels so good to do what you want and need of your own free will and not because you’re forced to..