13 Signs You're Meant To Be Self-Employed

3)      You don’t play well with others. People generally consider me to be friendly, gregarious and outgoing (and humble). However, in a work setting involving a team project, I turn bossy and controlling. Being self-employed, I have made a conscious decision not to grow my business to more than one full-time employee. I do work with other freelancers and contractors as needed, but I don’t manage or supervise anyone, and I love it that way.

4)      You have passion for what you do. Whatever you decide to do with your one person business, you need to have an ability to translate your passion to your customers and clients. The self-employed thrive on an unbridled enthusiasm for their work. Otherwise you will quickly burn out and get discouraged.

5)      You are a good listener. Being self-employed does not mean talking about yourself all the time to anyone who will listen – quite the opposite. You need to listen to conversations in your industry, listen carefully to your customers and your clients and become a fantastic analytical thinker. Be able to repeat back to people what they are saying to you and offer solutions to their problems.

5)      You are a good listener. Being self-employed does not mean talking about yourself all the time to anyone who will listen – quite the opposite. You need to listen to conversations in your industry, listen carefully to your customers and your clients and become a fantastic analytical thinker. Be able to repeat back to people what they are saying to you and offer solutions to their problems.

6)      You are comfortable being “the decider”. When you are your own boss, you can’t pass the buck. You are your brand and your business, and if something goes wrong or there is a complaint, you need to embrace the criticism, make improvements and move on.

7)      You have a support system. Working alone (and often from your home) can be isolating and lonely. Without co-workers, there is no stress-relieving water cooler banter and a group willing to give you an office party on your birthday. This can be very lonely for some people, so it helps to have family and friends who understand this situation and are willing to help. Your support system must embrace your lifestyle and be totally on board, especially when you start doubting yourself. My husband has been an integral part of my business since day one and has always supported my self-employment decision, through good and bad.