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Ask HN: Mother driving me crazy over getting a job. What to do?

1 points by mothertrouble ↗ HN
I've been working fulltime for 10 years and last year I quit my job to try freelancing so that I can create cool things of my own and for the clients. I am struggling to get clients and most of my saved money is gone but I do get enough clients to keep going at a bare minimum lifestyle.

My mother is telling me to stop this madness and get a job. She thinks I waste my life by being a freelancer. She is driving me to the brink of depression. As an entrepreneur have you face similar problems with your family members?

3 comments

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doctorwho
If you've blown through 10 years of savings in 1 year that should be a warning sign. If, after a year of freelancing, you're not completely self-sustaining, I'd say it's time to re-evaluate your plan. You do have a PLAN right? You didn't just decide to try freelancing right? Please note that "looking for clients" is not a plan, it's a complete lack of a plan. If you can't explain to your mom why you're going to be a successful freelancer then I'd suggest you either take her advice or do something to prove you won't be moving back into her basement, if you're not there already.
justintocci
Steady as she goes. I remember seeing somewhere that it takes eighteen months to reach your prior salary. It took me longer but I blame the timing, I started on my own right when the economy tanked. If you want someone to talk to ring me on a Sunday afternoon and I'll tell you what I know.
[dead] iamntz
Just get a damn job!

Your problem is that you took a very risky path. From what you say, you didn't try the water with a finger, but you just did a cannon ball. Which is kinda wrong.

Get a full time job and you can do freelance after working hours, as a part time job. Risks are near to zero but chances to succeed are near to 100%.

You should say what do you know to do, maybe you get a job here, on HN.