@JMB - I’m in a similar situation as you… I have a husband and young daughter, as well as a mortgage, car payment, you name it, LOL. On the actual profession, I’m a web designer / front-end web developer. Most of my business is through word of mouth, however I get a bit from just getting my name out there, many people just find me on the search engines, etc. I’ve been reading a book called Get Clients Now! by CJ Hayden which has some great marketing advice (I’ve written about it on my blog if you want more info).

As for making the transition - it’s not easy! I worked VERY early mornings and VERY late nights, and every weekend (with a toddler, that means during naptime, and again early morning/late night). I did work myself to a point of burnout which obviously isn’t good… My main goal was to get 6 months of savings in the bank - so if things do slow down now after taking the plunge, I know I’m “OK” for at least half a year…

It’s definitely not something to jump into lightly - especially with the family and financial responsibilities that people like us have (spouse/kid(s)/mortgage/loans/etc.) But it can be done - you just have to believe in yourself! A great support system (family, friends, etc.) is crucial to help you though the down times, as well.

If your existing clients help bring you close to your full time salary, then I’d say work it for as long as you can stand it - and save every penny that your side work brings you. Pretend you don’t even have it - just SAVE, save, save… Try to market as much as you can (tough with the time constraints, but it can be done!) - if you see you can bring in a few more clients and maintain the work level, you should be able to do it!

Best of luck to you! I hope you (and everyone here!) are able to make the switch!

Great article.

@Eric–re making the big switch–I took on enough freelance work at the end of my last sting working for the man to literally FORCE me to jump. I overextended myself on purpose. It was a draining two months, but in the end it was worth it. I saved up enough just in time before the holidays to survive a mini slowdown, and I had plenty of free time to scare up other gigs. Yes–JUMP! Unless you have nothing saved to fall back on, you should do fine with the proper drive to succeed.

Essentially, how many of these posters are in the same situation in terms of being married with a child/children, own a home and are the primary bread winner?

How do you find new leads / customers….other than word of mouth?

What can I do to realistically make the transition.

Any information you can provide is greatly appreciated.

Please feel free to email me with any feedback: jmbeauford[at]hotmail[dot]com.

I do agree with Jaden, one book that addresses making the switch SLOWLY and PURPSOEFULLY is the Anti 9-5 Guide- excellent advice on how to do it without sacrificing your mortgage lol.