Jobs Where You Can Be Your Own Boss

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Self-employment doesn’t have to be an unrealistic or unattainable dream. With careful planning and preparation, you can make the leap to becoming your own boss. Take an honest inventory of your skills, experience, and especially your passions, and consider these jobs where you can be your own boss.

Personal Trainer

If you’re a fitness nut, why not share your enthusiasm with others, for a fee? Before you quit your 9 to 5, use your fitness time to earn certification as a yoga or Pilates instructor or a personal fitness trainer.

Caterer

Kitchens are your natural habitat, so put your culinary talent to work as a caterer. Check state and local licensing requirements for food services and start planning some sample menus.

Real Estate Investor

Sure, you could earn your real estate agent license, but did you ever consider investing in rental property and becoming a landlord? Real estate investing is a full-time and potentially lucrative career, if you put the effort into growing your real estate business.

Blogger

You’re reading proof right now that bloggers can make money, by offering knowledge, selling products, using affiliate links, and running ads. Never underestimate the power of the written word when coupled with some fascinating topics.

Tutor

From English as a second language to test preparation to help with math, tutors make money by helping students with subjects that challenge them. Adults need tutors too, from learning languages to using computer programs and apps. If you have specialized skills and experience, charge by the hour for it.

Social Media Manager

Small business owners are up to their eyebrows running their businesses. They know they need a social media presence but don’t have time to run it. If you know your way around Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn then make yourself useful and make some money. Bonus points if you have the videography skills for YouTube.

Freelance Writer

Writers actually do make money—if they put the work into marketing themselves. Technical writers who turn engineering or coder lingo into plain English make the most, but everyone needs content. If you can provide writing, writing can provide for you.

Event Planner

When your guests depart, they’re buzzing about what a great party host you are. Help others arrange events for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, corporate meetings, and even conventions. Earn a Certified Meeting Professional credential and you’ll have a step up.

Starting any new venture and turning it into a job where you can be your own boss takes planning, saving, budgeting, marketing, guts, passion, and time. Decide what you’d love to do and figure out how to get from dreaming to doing.