Starting a Freelance Career

I spent over 25 years in the construction industry as an engineer and estimator. It was a challenging career but also very satisfying. In the last five years, though, I started to be discontent and maybe even a little bored. Once people do something for a long time and become proficient, the same duties can become tedious.

Once I felt the discontent bug, I started thinking, "What do I want to do?" Financially, I had the luxury to ask this question as my husband had a good-paying job. I was about 5-8 years away from retirement and just couldn't seem to stick it out.

So, what did I want to do? First, I wanted leisure. I've been working long hours, commuting long distances and enduring much pressure in a male-dominated, pressured industry. I wanted to wake up, drink some coffee, read the newspaper and browse the computer. I wanted control over my schedule.

Second, I didn't necessarily want to leave the construction industry but maybe be a consultant. Being in this industry is like being in a very large family. Most everybody knows each other and I had a positive reputation among my construction family. I was hoping to have the opportunity to consult but knew that I couldn't depend on it.

Third, I was intrigued by freelance opportunities. I have always had excellent admin skills and am proficient with all manner of computer software. Along with these skills, I have a degree in English and edited all of the construction proposals, letters and emails. I also edited my husband's novels and friends' novels.

Once those ideas came to me, I started investigating the freelance gigs and found so much more than I expected. I quit my construction career in May of 2017 and am continuing to learn even more about the amazing freelance opportunities out there in our big world.

 I started this blog because I am going to write about these opportunities and resources that have helped me jumpstart my freelance/consultant career. I do have to mention that because of my positive reputation, most of my income comes from consulting. So, I will also write about the tools that have helped me keep organized.

Cari on...so you can carry on.