Long term career thoughts

When I read this article by Herman Martinus, creator of Bear Blog and some other projects, about how he stays motivated as a solo creator, it triggered some thoughts about my own career.

A question I ask myself from time to time is if I’m happy with my work, where I want to be in the future, and if I’m going in the right direction.

Do I want to continue being an employee? What industry do I want to work in? Do I want to be a freelancer? Do I want to be a creator?

I haven’t found the answer to where I want to be in the long run, as my career is only a few years old.

As an employee, I like that I have some security. I have a contract that guarantees me a certain amount of money in my bank account every month. I don’t have to actively look for work to make money (unless I get fired or am unhappy with the job or the work). I don’t have to find customers or clients. But at the same time, I have a boss who tells me what to do. I usually have some freedom to choose between different tasks, but my freedom is limited.

As a freelancer, from what I’ve read or heard so far, it’s pretty much like being an employee, but with more freedom, more money (if you find enough work), but less security that you’ll find some work. And of course, sometimes you have to do the acquisition work.

As a creator, it’s different. You have to create a product or service that people are willing to pay for. You have to find those people, attract them, and keep them happy. You have to improve your products to sell more.

The increased freedom (being your own boss, following your own daily routine, choosing the work you want to do more freely, possibly making more money) sounds great to me, but at the same time I’m kind of scared about finding customers and clients. Where do I find clients or customers? How do I sell myself well? Especially as someone who’s more of an introvert and absolutely hates negotiating.

So for now, I think staying an employee is still the best option for me.

Maybe I should start a side project again with the intention of making some money and see how that goes? But all the bureaucracy (business registration, etc.) with no idea if it will work?

It’s easy to leave things as they are and enjoy your life, but easy is not always the best.

What do you think about this? Feel free to comment or send me your own story and experiences!

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