10 Insights of a Self-Employed

Fifteen years ago, on June 1^st, I started my first assignment as a self-employed. Hip, hip, hooray! The first 5 years were sort of perfect, I could live comfortably from my earnings. But it began to fluctuate at different phases from middle to zero. I had to work several part-time jobs to make ends meet. In between, I had two babies. I decided to spend more quality time with them. Four years ago, I made the commitment to focus on only my business. This was picking up smoothly, then Corona came to change its course again.

This year (like the previous years), I have no urge to celebrate or give a public announcement on my baby steps. And let’s be honest, who really cares? I am still far from where I want to be as an independent professional in terms of clients, assignments and having a steady income. Nevertheless, it doesn’t make me less proud of my journey. It wasn’t always easy, but I often found ways to manage. There are so many insightful experiences and networks I gathered, which I think is worth more than millions of euro, including my two princes that were born in that time of my life.

On the other hand, I made so many silly mistakes I could have written a book about it. If I knew some things I know now, many headaches, sleepless nights and anxiety I would be spared of.  That is why I compiled this list of do’s and don’ts for starters and self-employed:

1. Have a buffer ready for at least one year. When you start or change directions in your business. In case it doesn’t pick up fast, you can still focus on your business without stressing that the money is almost finished.
2. Never rely on one big client for assignments. If anything happens between you and that client, your income is gone. Even if your hands are full, make sure you find in between time for new clients.
3. Find yourself a good accountant.  You can’t do everything by yourself, even if you have the know-how.  A good accountant will advise you also on your progress and give you tax and income deductive tips.
4. Mutual trust and respect are not negotiable, terminate the working relationship immediately if you are being disrespected or there is lack of trust. A good mental health is wealth.
5. Find a good mentor that has knowledge and (life) experience preferable in the area you are specialized in. Can advise you when you have questions or face difficulties.
6. Don’t mix emotions in business. You will lose. Business is business.
7. When you work with family or (best) friends. Business affairs should not come in private affairs and vice versa. Also don’t make things personal you are working or running a business together.
8. Do not expect family or friends to support what you do. A hard pill to swallow, but it is better to be mentally prepared. You will not have many supporters when you start. It has nothing to do with you.
9. Keep your eyes on the prize, which are your target audience/ clients/ service or products. Focus on the value you want to give.
10. Always make sure you have a verbal agreement in writing and signed. This you can use as back-up and reference anytime.

Be proud of yourself no matter which stage you are. You made the bold step to start something for yourself. It is in the process you will learn the most (hardest) lessons and grow. Some grow “fast” and others like myself take their “time”.

Are you thinking of starting a new business? Do you have any tips or tricks for self-employed or starters? Let’s learn from each other. Feel free to share any thoughts about this topic.

Images from:

Surface– Unsplash ( featured image)

Me, Myself and Chi – Africa Web TV

Clark Tibbs – Unsplash

John Tyson – Unsplash

Note: last updated date corrected layout, typos, spelling, images and/ or grammar errors in this blog. The content has not changed!