Any entrepreneurs here?

[Pekka]

I mean real ones. Not hobbyists, but risk takers with a company and sort of depending on it as well?

Damn it I hate it. I'm short on time right now but I'll continue later on. Let's just say that no sleep for the small man. It's like this: you get to work A LOT and you get to pay A LOT to other people as well and be the last one to get paid, if there's anything left.

Anyone out there?

[OzzyKP]

I've run a small non-profit organization for many years and basically built it into what it is today. (still small, but much bigger than when I found it)

[DanS]

I have run two small companies. It's satisfying in many respects, but it takes up all of your time. Tough work. Much easier collecting a paycheck from the man.

[C0ckney]

i used to own a couple of ice cream vans before i moved to brasil. dans puts it very well.

[-Jrabbit]

Our situations are not fully comparable, Pekka, because my corporation is self-contained. I do the marketing (i.e., snagging clients) and the billable work; my wife handles all financials (invoicing, taxes, payroll, banking, etc). I work my butt off (typically 60-70 hrs/week), but at least I'm only responsible for myself (and family). It's been 5 years now and has progressed from being constantly nerve-wracking to now being solid and steady. I have decided against growing to the point of having full-timers on staff; I prefer working from home. When I snag larger projects, I subcontract the bits I can't handle personally.

I still live in fear of losing a major client without notice, but in truth, things are going pretty well. There are times when I long for the comfort of a steady corporate paycheck, but mostly for having lost the ability to slack off a bit after a major project. Can't do that now.

When you're on your own: "You only eat what you kill."

[Donegeal]

I have a duplex and a house that I rent out.

[DaShi]

I mean real ones. Not hobbyists, but risk takers with a company and sort of depending on it as well?

Damn it I hate it. I'm short on time right now but I'll continue later on. Let's just say that no sleep for the small man. It's like this: you get to work A LOT and you get to pay A LOT to other people as well and be the last one to get paid, if there's anything left.

Anyone out there?

Contrary to what probably everyone else has told you: it isn't easy!!!

[rah]

I did it for about a year, but ended up spending more time hustling for work then doing work. When someone came along and offered me similar money with benefits, I quickly rejoined corporate America.