Birds of a Feather...

It occurred to me yesterday that I no longer have any close friends in full time employment.

Even those neighbours I've got to know are all self employed.

My brother and sister also have their own businesses.

After 15 years of being in business myself, I could no longer imagine being employed. I think I could even be unemployable.

Something happens to a person who becomes self employed. You don't notice it, it just sort of gradually creeps in and takes over.

I think it happens because a self employed person has to make it in the world pretty much on their own. Independence has its rewards. It also creates its own problems.

Dropping friends along the way is lind of sad, but in many ways, inevitable.

It took me a long time to realise that not everybody has ambition. I thought everyone was pre-programmed to strive for the things they want - and then go out for more.

Being self employed makes you different.

I'm not saying it's good or bad, just different.

Looking at my circle of friends now, I can see it immediately.

If you're considering self employment for the first time, be prepared to wake up one day and realise that you're likely to change more than just your job. You'll be changing your entire life. Things cannot and will not be the same ever again once you make the jump.

Do it online and the changes are even more profound.

Imagine what your own friends will say when:

• You have no job to speak of
• You no longer have to commute
• You don't have to get up if you don't feel like it (That WON'T happen by the way)
• You can spend time with the kids or your wife or anyone else
• You can make money passively

Do you think your current friends and colleagues would understand that?

Would they be pleased for you?

Could you explain your new way of life to them in a way that you doesn't appear smug?

Be prepared to make some changes, because if you answered yes to any of those three questions, you're in for a shock.