Self Employmet Overview – To be
Self-employed is a slightly loose term nowadays. With all the contract based employment available, the kind of job where you are responsible for your own taxes and expenses. True self-employment in my mind is working for yourself and usually by yourself. Those who own or run companies with employee's are not really self-employed they are business owners. So that set aside being self-employed is the best choice I have ever made.
I have been self-employed in the entertainment industry right out of college, for some 16 years now. I have on occasion taken "real" jobs but they are usually short lived. I love the freedom my business gives me, virtually unlimited time with my children, my spouse, Full freedom to take any time off I may want. Self-Employment is not for everyone or every job type. My job choice fits my lifestyle well and fits the job well. Most other DJ's, KJ's and entertainers I know are self-employed some are sub contracted to more than one company this works for everyone involved.
I do on the other hand have to work very hard at promoting myself, and unfortunately in my community am accountable for every action I take, if at a bar, I refuse to drink to much and watch my language and composer as I never know who is watching and who may be my next client or who may tell friends "you know that guy he did ______________ don't ever hire him". This is a big downside to self-employed people who don't realize that they are their company and are seen as such. Then there is the paperwork and more paperwork, every thing must be kept in order, finances must be recorded, taxes, expenses, etc. must be paid or else you are in big trouble.
If you are not faint of heart, lazy, a procrastinator, and are very self motivated you could be self-employed and do very well as such. If you like working regular hours for a pay check that takes care of your taxes and don't want to pay expenses out of your pocket, need your heath plan paid for, stay with your boss. Both sides are and can be rewarding for those who choose the one that fits them. We need all types in the working sector some are great business owners, some CEO's, some just great working class people, and some can be their own bosses.
The choice of course is all yours. Please research what it is you are planning to do, talk to self-employed people they will share with you the ups and downs.
