Today is a wonderful day! For the first time, I made the commute to work from one room of my house to another. I am excited to announce that this Halloween marks the first day that I am no longer a part of the 9 to 5 workforce, but am instead a new member of the proudly self-employed!
The Transition
The transition from 9 to 5 to self-employed has been a long journey filled with long days spent in front of a computer screen. One day I will have to write about it in length, but in a nutshell it involved about three years of spending eight hours at the office, followed up by another four to five at home. I tried many forms of making money online, including advertising on my blog, AdSense sites, affiliate marketing, and maintaining a directory.
While those things bring in some passive income, they aren’t the things I am most excited about doing. I love writing. Hence, it wasn’t too much of a surprise that I started getting into freelance writing. So far, I have done mainly blog posts and a pinch of ghostwriting. But ultimately, writing is my passion, therefore freelance writing is what I enjoy doing the most. And there is nothing better than making a living doing what you love.
My New Tagline
For those who have paid attention to my profiles across social media, you might have already noticed some changes. Since I like variety (and diversified sources of income), I plan on combining my love of writing plus my experience in online marketing in what I offer which can be summed up in the following tagline.
I am an online marketing consultant, freelance writer, professional blogger, and social media enthusiast who enjoys photography, tennis, and the outdoors. Let me know how I can help you with your website, blog, or business.
I vary it a little from network to network based on the number of characters I have to work with and the audience. But it summarizes exactly what I want to do and who I can do it for, plus gives a little insight into the things I love outside of work which is what the perfect tagline should convey.
What I Have to Offer
As for the specifics, here is a sampling of the services I will be offering bloggers and businesses. Please contact me if you’d like to learn more!
For Bloggers
- Blog Audits: If you feel there is more you could be doing with your blog in order to build your authority, grow your community, and make money online, I can help. I will analyze your blog by looking at several factors including your design, search & social media optimization, content, and calls-to-action. I will take that analysis and compare it to some other blogs in your niche to show you how your blog compares and what areas you need to focus on improving.
- Blog Posts: If you need a regular contributor for your blog, I can write articles and (depending on the topic) promote them to my network. My main area of experience is in online marketing, but I can also write about a wide range of topics suitable for your niche.
For Businesses
- Local Search Optimization: If you have a local business, then you want to have a strong presence in local search. Local search results take up prime real estate on the first page, so if you are not on it, then you are missing out on business. With some simple onsite optimization and creation of quality local directory listings, your business can get closer to the front page than ever!
- Social Media Setup: I always believe that the businesses that will succeed on social media are the ones that are doing it for themselves. The toughest part is just getting started. I can help your business setup social media accounts & profiles on the top networks, then give you specific ideas on how to grow and engage with your target audience.
- Online Reputation Management: There is nothing worse than searching for your name or business on Google and finding less than desirable results on the first page that include bad reviews or the word scam. I can help you develop website content and social profiles in additional to optimize existing online properties for your business in order to try to outrank the negative items that appear in search.
- Freelance Writing: If you need content developed for your website or blog, I can write it and (depending on the topic) promote it to my network. As mentioned earlier, my main area of experience is in online marketing, but I can also write about a wide range of topics suitable for your industry. If it’s out of my area of expertise, I can also help you develop content ideas and a plan for your content strategy.
In addition to my freelance writing and other services, I have a laundry list of eBooks to write as well as a great new project just for bloggers in the works, all of which I hope to have ready by the beginning of 2012.
Who I Have to Thank
I can’t say I would be where I am now without the support of my family and my wonderful husband who happens to be a talented photographer and blogger. He even got me this lovely card to celebrate!
I also have to thank my former employer Vertical Measures for all of the education and experience I gained in online marketing with some very smart and talented colleagues.
Last, but definitely not least, are the people who inspired me. I can’t list them all. I could, but I’ll save that for another post as it would be a book on its own. One person who comes to mind is Farnoosh Brock. I met her last year at Blog World and sensed she had great plans up her sleeve. Sure enough, while I was weighing the pros and cons of making it on my own, Farnoosh went out, did it, and told the tale of leaving her 6-figure career and why she left without a plan. She pointed me in the direction of a great eBook, You Don’t Need a Job, You Need Guts about combining your passion, self, and business through online entrepreneurship. She also wrote one of her own on Motivation: Going from Goals to Greatness. And, speaking of motivation, she sent me motivational messages via email, Twitter, and Facebook that helped me stay confident that I was doing the right thing. So for all of those things, I have to thank her!
Now I begin my first day of my new career in the comfort of my home office. Lots of preparation to do with only three days left to Blog World LA! 
About Kristi Hines
Kikolani covers blog marketing and blogging tips for personal, professional, and business bloggers to succeed in search and social media marketing. Kristi Hines is a 
Kristi, well done on making the leap to ‘work from home’. That’s pretty awesome.
It will be great to see just how many amazing opportunities you create, particularly with your work ethic!
I wish you well.
David | Hubby’s Home recently posted Ergonomic Chair For Back Pain Relief: The Award Winning FreedMan Chair
Thanks David!
Congratulations! This adventure is not always easy, but it’s so fulfilling it keeps you putting one foot in front of the other. Kudos for taking the plunge
Sandi Amorim recently posted Lighten Up While You Still Can
Thanks Sandi! Definitely planning to take it one day at a time while planning bigger and better things!
Congrats, Kristi! Eleven months ago, I left the “9-5″ to build my freelance consulting business. Absolutely no regrets!
Thanks Lisa – that’s great to hear! I know there are probably going to be challenges, but I plan to go at it with a no-regrets attitude as well!
Congratulations Kristi! Sounds like you deserve everything you have received! It’s been a pleasure working with you in the short time we have had together.
Russ Henneberry recently posted 3 Ways To Overcome Skeptical Eyebrows When Selling A Service
Thanks Russ! I’ve enjoyed working together too and look forward to more in the future!
Congrats, Kristi! You’ve always been someone I looked to for useful and honest blogging information (by the way, I bought my Blog World ticket through you).
It’s interesting how many people are starting over today (including me). Halloween is traditionally the Gaelic New Year and a harvest festival. You’ve worked hard for your harvest!
Debra Eve | Later Bloomer recently posted Later Bloomer’s Got A New Look And A Free Book!
Thanks Debra! I appreciate you buying the ticket through me too – we’ll have to catch up in LA!
Good luck with your starting over as well – it’s an exciting time!
Congrats on taking a very difficult step. I wish you the best!
Scott Wyden Kivowitz recently posted October Snow
Thanks Scott!
Congratulations Kristi,You’ve been an amazing inspiration to all of us. Keep rocking! Will be watchingggg
)
Aaron Lee recently posted My Honest and Unbiased Review of Sprout Social
Thanks Aaron!
Hi Kristi,
Congratulations and wishing you all the very best in your new venture, and am sure it is going to turn out much better than what it was earlier!
Sure seems like a grind and I marvel how you still managed to put up such awesome posts on the blog! Your husbands support sure is commendable, and that sure is a sweet card
I guess without such supports, we can’t move ahead.
And yes, Farnoosh sure is inspirational and so are her posts! I guess we do come across many people in our lives who unknowingly motivate and inspire us to move ahead in life.
Thanks for sharing and all the best for your new start, a new leaf, a new beginning this Halloween
Harleena Singh@Freelance Writer recently posted Throwing a Teen Party for Halloween
Thanks Harleena!
He has been pretty awesome – it’s really a leap of faith for both people when a partner wants to do something like this. He’s been nothing but supportive, as have others who knew what I was plotting. Having the support network definitely makes it easier to put away the voices of self-doubt when they present themselves.
Congrats girl! I still work my day job and run my blogs at night. It’s not an easy thing to do, but you make it look so easy. You are a great inspiration to allot of bloggers out there that have lost their jobs and trying to make it out in blogging. Consistency and hard work can be time consuming, but it’s worth it when you’re able to attain your dreams of working for yourself.
Sonia recently posted Social Online Conference Pass Giveaway: I’m Speaking
Thanks Sonia! Working double is definitely a grind, and I think the only reason it looked easy was because no one but my hubby saw the nights where I just freaked out about having so much to do. I hope to write more about how I started to how I ended up where I am now – it’s not necessarily as easy as some sites / products want you to believe it is. But when you get there, it’s pretty awesome.
Kristi,
Welcome to the work-at-home life! Congrats and best of luck!!
-Matt
Matt Mansfield recently posted Matt About Friday: The “Are You Ready for Mobile Marketing?” Edition
Thanks Matt! I’m only a few hours in, but already loving it!
Congrats Kristi~ Welcome to the 30 second commute! It’s a pretty wonderful place.
Glad your hard work has paid off!
Jackie @ It’s a Wahm Life recently posted Video Marketing Tip: Overcome Being Camera Shy
Thanks Jackie – love the description of 30 second commute!
Kristi, a big CONGRATULATIONS to making the leap from employee to self-employed! I’m sure it’s gratifying when you work from home, and it’s satisfying when you wake up each morning knowing that you don’t have to go anywhere.
I’ve recently started a new full-time job, and I’m seriously looking forward to the prospects available. However, as much as I’m sure I’ll enjoy it, I know it’s not how I want to end my days with. I want to end my days knowing that I was true to myself and my loves, and that I was able to live life with a song in my heart and a drive to live life true to myself.
Being employed won’t likely achieve this for me. Therefore, I know that one day, maybe years from now, I will step out into a new way of living, knowing that it’s truly meant for me.
Best of luck
Stuart recently posted Why I’m Choosing The Road Less Travelled
Thanks Stuart! It was pretty satisfying knowing the commute was just a few rooms away! I hope you get to do the same sooner than you expect as well!
Congratulations, Kristi! You’ve worked very hard and you will continue to have much success!
Stacy@Blogging Tips recently posted 8 List Posts to Help You in Blogging, Life and Business
Thanks Stacy!
Hey Kristi, congrats
Tomorrow is going to be my first year as a work from home blogger 
I love it. I love not having to go anywhere to work. I love that i can work when I want and rest when I don’t want to do anything. Play with my pup any time I feel like it. Just do what ever.
Congrats again and welcome to the really cool crowd, lol
Brankica@Best book recently posted How to learn WordPress quickly? Beginner’s guide and pile of tricks
Thanks Brankica – happy one year work-at-home anniversary! I can’t wait until I hit mine! I’m going to love working in my odd ways when feeling most productive (like thinking about how to write my blog post while doing some home repairs). Playing with my kitties during work breaks is also a great bonus!
Congratulations on becoming your own full time business. This is a major milestone that so many look forward to.
I encourage entrepreneurs everywhere as I believe that everyone should own something themselves. There are of course the risks, and one of the biggest is for those who rely on an employer subsidized healthcare to be provided, this is probably one of the biggest ones that prevents many I know from becoming self employed full time.
As a work from home employee for a company, I part time blog. But I never leave my home even for my day job. I can honestly say I don’t think I could work a job where I didn’t telecommute at least 90% of my time anymore, I am too used to it and have been doing it for 5+ years now.
Justin Germino@technology blog recently posted Use Picfull for Fun Online Photo Editing
Thanks Justin! Finding health insurance was tough, and it’s not as good as group coverage. I have been working with a naturopathic doctor to get everything working as healthily as possible with only the use of supplements (which aren’t insured anyway), so I’m hoping that will be my “apple a day” formula to keeping those costs down.
Congratulations, Kristi! That is so exciting! You are a wonderful writer, and your passion for it is evident. You are an inspiration to all of us “little guys.” Good luck, and enjoy it!
Melissa Reyes recently posted 13 Ways to Demonstrate Authenticity on Facebook
Thanks Melissa! I’m glad the enthusiasm shows through my work!
Hi kristi, I knew it was coming but the last time we spoke I didn’t know it was going to be so fast. I’m completely jealous right now and just wish I had what it took to be self-employed. In all honesty I hope this allows you more time to come and engage with us at blog engage and naturally other favorite social networks you’re a part of.
bbrian017 recently posted Happy 4th Anniversary Blog Engage
I’m sure you do Brian – you’ve got a lot of great ideas and profitable projects already. For me, it was just getting past that mental barrier of not having the “stable job” that I’ve been accustomed to. Getting everything in order and lining up work to do for the first several months as well as making a list of where to go if things were to dry up made it a lot easier though. Definitely looking forward to having more time to socialize online after Blog World!
Very cool. Congratulations Kristi.
Matt McGuire @ Photography Wisdom recently posted Canon s100 Review
Thanks Matt!
Congrats Kristi, all the best, and I can see myself getting you to audit a couple blogs for me.
Jamie Northrup @ Web Consultant recently posted My Current and Upcoming Web Projects
Sounds good Jamie – I would be happy to do that! Just let me know when you’re ready!
Congratulations again Kristi! I have enjoyed working with you for the last 3 years, and will miss having you at the office! I still owe you lunch, so let me know when you’re free. Enjoy your “retirement” from the 9 to 5!
Sarah Schager recently posted sarahschager: RT @verticalmeasure Monsters and Villains on Social Media http://t.co/1AFS8Az0 #halloween #socialmedia
I’ll miss being around the office too! We’ll definitely have to do lunch, maybe after I get back from LA.
Congrats, Kristi. How exciting! I’m grinning from ear to ear, because it sounds like you’re rather happy. I just love it! Keep up the choices that make you smile, cause you to work harder and bring joy into your life.
Know we’re all here for you.
Christian
Christian Hollingsworth recently posted Finding joy through The C.A.R.E. Movement
Thanks Christian – I really appreciate that. And yes, I’m excited and happy today, even if I am pretty busy!
Congratulations. The planet thanks you – and you’ll thank yourself, too.
David @ solar ontario recently posted Solar Panel Installation [with photos]
Thanks David! Yes, I’m looking forward to being more environmentally friendly as well!
Congratulations Kristi! Wow – I met you online in spring of 2009 and since then I’ve watched as you built this amazing blog and worked so hard all over the internet. You’ve combined your great talent and skills with a lot of good old fashioned hard work – and I wish you much luck for the future!
Christie recently posted Feline Hyperthyroidism
Thanks Christie!
I don’t mind hard work at all when there’s a great goal to accomplish! 
Good for you Kristi! It’s a whole new world now — and I’m sure you’ll do great.
John Soares @ Freelance Writing recently posted Should You Edit As You Write?
Congrats, Kristi!
I can sooooo relate to working a 9 to 5 and then coming home to work another shift on the computer. That was the story of my life for 6 years but it was sooooo worth it to become self employed. Enjoy your new journey and congratulations. You’re a great writer so I know everything will go well for you.
Lisa Irby recently posted My Love/Hate Relationship With WordPress Websites
Thanks Lisa! It’s a tough road, but agreed – definitely worth it!
Kristi,
Happy Birthday on your new and exciting venture! The community you have built is a true testament to your hard work and the kind of results you can deliver. I wish you the best and look forward to following your success!
Leif Martinez
Thanks Leif!
Congratulations; welcome to the world of the self employed. You’ll have ups and downs, but you’re going to love the freedom part the best. I wish you the best of luck with it all.
Mitch Mitchell recently posted When Things Get Personal, Part Two
Thanks Mitch! I’m already enjoying the freedom with some appointments in the morning and then a full work day after. Nothing like a controllable, flexible schedule!
Congrats Kristi! Great news! I’m sure you’re going to blaze a trail for others to model.
Cindy King recently posted 7 Networking Tips For International Business Students
Thanks Cindy! I definitely hope that lots of people can find ways to be doing the same!
Kristi, I have been thinking about you all weekend and I knew today would be a super happy day. The biggest treat of all in your Halloween history: Being self-employed. A million congratulations and I am oh SO so happy for you!!! This is one exciting journey and you are so well-prepared for it. I have no doubt you will rise to every occasion and great things await you. I am here if I can ever do anything for you – and while I didn’t do much, it’s so so sweet of you to mention my name. Congratulations, my dear! Celebrate at Blogworld and hope to see you again in 2012. If I have to drag me out to Arizona in the middle of February to escape the cold and see you, well, that won’t be too bad at all
!
Farnoosh recently posted What If?
Farnoosh, you do a lot in the way of inspiring others. Just yesterday I was having lunch with a friend, and she talked about how much your podcast helps her get through the day at work.
Thanks so much for the words of encouragement over the last few weeks, and I hope you do come out in February. It’s definitely worth it, even if just for the break in weather (although we’ll be dressed like it’s freezing when it’s probably 20 – 30 degrees warmer).
I found the most difficult part of the switch from 9-5 (more like 8-8 for me..LOL) was the consistent income until it resonated with me the harder I work even at home the more I can make. You cant always say that with a 9-5 job. Same salary every 2 weeks. Thanks for the inspiration!
Jeff Casmer recently posted Do Real Home Business Opportunities That Are Perfect For You Really Exist?
That is so true Jeff! What you make when working on your own is really based on how productive you can be in a certain amount of time. If you can get 8 hours of work done in 4, then it’s even better.
Hey Kristi huge congrats and what took you so long?!
I made that leap last year and have never looked back. And although it will be a fun rollercoaster ride with people like the amazing Farnoosh (whose podcast interview just went live on my site yesterday) you will be supported every step of the way.
Hit me up when ever you need an ear to chew, or some one to just pour your ideas and thoughts out to. Trust me you will have many.
Can’t wait to see your progress and success in following your passion.
You go girl
Natalie
Natalie Sisson recently posted Crushing Your Travel Fears And Living A Prolific Life With Farnoosh Brock
Thanks Natalie! I’ve grown up with that “you have to have a traditional job” mentality, and that was hard to break away from.
Kristi – Congratulations on your transition from the corporate world to self-employment. Having done the same thing at one point, it’s a bit scary but empowering at the same time. My biggest hurdle when I first made the transistion involved time management and focus. I found out very quickly that, if I didn’t shut down email and remove all the other neat internet based distractions, I got very little done in a day. I also learned that you have to say no to some clients as they simply were not worth the effort compared to the $ return. However, it sounds as though you are off to a great start and will make it a success.
Good luck, and I’m going to spend some time reading through all your posts.
Thanks Brad! I have been working to cut down distractions for awhile now, from keeping instant messenger from popping up automatically to filtering non-essential email so I don’t see it unless I want to. It makes a huge difference!
Hi Kristi
It must have been a big decision to make and I hope you will be happy with it all. It would properly be a lot of hard work at the beginning but if you are doing what you love and you are doing it for yourself it might not be that bad at all.
Congratulations
Good luck and I wish you all the best.
Thomas recently posted Take control of your PC with Autoruns from Sysinternal
Thanks Thomas!
Atta girl! Good for you. Let’s celebrate in LA this week!
Jason Falls recently posted Have We Grown Weary Of Brand Attacks?
Sounds good Jason!
I don’t know what kind of person you are. You might’ve made a good decision in quitting your 9 to 5 job or you’ll find the freelance job pretty boring. I know I do. You might soon miss going to work and interacting with people.
Marty recently posted How to Fix Android Forced Reboot Issue
I’m only three days in, but thus far, I like having the control of when I have to interact with others (scheduling meetings, lunches, calls, etc.) vs. being in an office where people just walk up to your desk all the time. I’m an introvert though, so if I really needed to get some people-time in, I’d probably just schedule a Google Hangout or something.
As someone who has watched you grow over the last couple of years, all I can say is congrat’s! In true entrepreneurial spirit, I know you can do this!
Keith recently posted Think Outside the Box
Thanks Keith! Glad to have you as a reader all these years too!
Awesome! I think the requisite long hours required to truly break free of the 9-to-5 world intimidates a lot of people, and they end up doing what’s convenient, safe and familiar instead of what they’re passionate about.
I did that for a long time, and decided that the absolute worst case scenario is I’d have to look for a job again.
Kristi, welcome to a new life. You deserve tons of success because you’ve earned it. I LOVE to read stories like this!
Thanks Suzanne!
Congratulations on the work change! Finding something that will pay your bills AND make you truly happy is a huge challenge (especially in this current economy). It’s so easy just to stick with a known thing that does the former at the expense of the later. Great that you took a risk to follow a more passion-filled route.
Spot@tablet review recently posted Best Tablet Computers for Travel
It can be a challenge, but when you find it, it’s so rewarding!
Hey Kristi, well done you! A very exciting step. You won’t have the security or regular income but really who cares about that. Freedom and passion are more important:)
Congrats on making the big brave move. Very sad I won’t see you at BWE this year. Staying home:)
Annabel Candy, Successful Blogging recently posted Blog Advertising and Sponsoring: My Personal Story
Thanks Annabel! I wish you were making it out to Blog World again – it was great meeting you last year!
Congratulations! Also hats off to you for taking the first step towards your dream! Not many people (still stuck in the rat race, like us) can proudly say they’ve taken steps towards their dream like you have! All the best!
Shirlene from Idelish recently posted {Worldwide} Traditional Foods You Should Try from Around the World
Thanks Shirlene!
It takes awhile, but once you are there it’s all worth it. You’ve worked hard and you deserve the rewards. Are you going to throw a party?
Karl Staib recently posted Tiny Buddha Tele-Seminar and Twitter Party
Thanks Karl! Actually, I’ve been so busy lately that the “party” was just taking an unplugged weekend after my last day in Sedona. Nothing like relaxing to celebrate sometimes.
Wow! This is great sharing Kristi, I found your blog long time a go when I started my blogging journey and until today you are always shocking me with your information. Your article today really inspiring me since I have a plan to create a new business from my blogging skill, helping small business owner at my country to get found in the internet.
Thanks Kristi to always providing good and awesome information.
Latief@Blogging Tips recently posted 5 Ways to Promote Your Blog Through Social Media
That’s a great start Latief – many bloggers would probably be surprised to realize all they could do for small businesses in their community with the experience they have in writing and marketing!
Hi Kristi,
I guess it all starts with a dream and goal, to one day escape from the 9-5. It really takes a lot of hard work, commitment and sacrifices to actually make it happen.
So… Congrats on breaking free from the cubical nation. Hope you gave yourself a treat for the achievement you’ve made..
wishing you all the best in your new journey..
Shamelle
Shamelle@Better Blogging Ways recently posted The Goldilocks Blogging Approach To Keep Reader Eyeballs Glued To Your Entire Blog Post
Thanks Shamelle!
A lot of folks dream of being self-employed and working from home or online. It can be a little scary at first wondering if the work or money will continue for years to come. It sounds like you have a plan and work already lined, which is a plus. Some folks seem to jump into an online business with guns a blazing, but don’t seem to have a plan or at least a reasonable plan that will be sustainable. Maybe one day I can work from home full-time too.
Ray@dolphin tutorials recently posted What happened to Google Dictionary
It’s tough to manage lining up the work before leaving the job, but it’s worth it when it comes to feeling that extra bit of security. I hope you get to that point too Ray!
I guess we’re on the same path Kristi. I’ve recently decided to get out of my comfort zone, and started establishing my own business, it’s really exciting at first, but it’s really hard once you’re already doing it – without your usual safety net.
Congrats and would love to hear what will happen next
Jason Acidre recently posted jasonacidre: @mjces thanks MJ, really glad that you liked it
Good luck with your business Jason! Going outside the comfort zone is scary, but once you get there, it’s much better!
Kristi I’m so happy for you for the great move. I’m sure you deserve the comfort of your home, coz if you could contribute so much to the blogosphere along with a 9-5, you can pretty much do a lot more exciting and useful things when you work full time from home.
And with your “organizational capabilities” there’s no doubt that you will shine brighter.
I’m looking forward to that moment.
Jane@increase alexa links recently posted Social Sharing Buttons: Are You Driving Your Readers Away?
Thanks Jane! I’m definitely looking forward to engaging and contributing more to my roots in the blogging community!
Congratulations about that Kristi. I am happy for you and I know your family and friends would be proud of you. Your endeavors have now resulted into a successful journey. Thanks for sharing this!
Extreme John@CEO Business Blog recently posted Business Blitz: Is Advertising on Facebook Good or Bad For Small Business?
Thanks John! I’m too excited not to share the news to everyone who’s interested now.
Hey Kristi,
I love people who make big big decisions in life!
I hope soon you can get your own home office room
I’ve started with a small rounded kitchen table, and it took me one year to have my dark & fancy glass desk haha
My wishes to you wish a big success!
Hesham @ How to Blog recently posted Removing the Guess Work from Online Marketing
Thanks Hesham! My husband and I had already gotten the office together before I made the transition – we share one with two matching desks now. It may not be fancy, but it’s well-matched and definitely gets the job done.
Congratulations to you and your husband Kristi. I am following your blog from long and I must say your hard work has built you an online reputation and a very stable online business that you always deserve for. There are many people who are full time bloggers but fail to achieve the success and you are an example for them.
Wish you a great luck inf future.
Pritam @ Part Time Jobs recently posted Top 20 Free Paid Online Survey Sites You Can Join From India
Thanks Pritam!
Congratulations Kristi! This is great news. Welcome to the awesome world of the self-employed. There is frankly nothing better for those willing to put in the time and effort to make it happen. You have shown you have both in spades.
Having a support system in place that includes your husband is fantastic. I don’t know how I’d manage to eat if it wasn’t for my wife, or take a step back from business if it wasn’t for my daughter.
Don’t forget to continue networking with other self-employed people. We’re here to support you.
Robert Dempsey recently posted This Is Why I Disabled My Klout Account
Thanks Robert! I definitely plan on engaging more with the self-employed and catering more content to this lifestyle once I get a little further into it. It’s definitely great to have the support from like-minded people!
congratulations Kristi for joining the ’1 minute walk to work’ crowd !
There’s nothing like working until 2pm in your dressing gown.. beware of people thinking you’re ‘playing’ on your computer just because you work at home.
btw.. does this mean you’ll have time to install CommentLuv premium?
(and you’re available for some writing jobs to do with it? let’s talk!)
Andrew Bailey recently posted CommentLuv WordPress
Thanks Andy! Yes, this means after Blog World I’ll actually be able to install the plugin on my main site and start doing some promo for it. Just had a couple of WordPress kinks to iron out, and didn’t want to do the long overdue updates that might break my site. And would love to talk about writing jobs too!
Hi Kristi,
Let me give you a huge congratulations on ending the 9-5 grind!
I quit my day job back in 2006 and have been fortunate enough to stay out of it ever since!
Speaking from my experience, you won’t look back and will now find even more opportunities come your way!
Onwards and upwards!
David
David Walker recently posted Zombie Marketers Shuffling Nowhere
Thanks David – congrats for being successful at this for 5 years! That’s definitely something I look forward to saying in 2016!
Hi Kristi,
Congrats, you deserve it. Lot’s of people desire to leave their day jobs but ultimately they fail in doing what needs to be done. You are definitely different.
Have A Lovely Day!
Emmanuel Olonade recently posted The Psychology Of Accomplishment – What You Really Need To Build A Successful Blog
Thanks Emmanuel! I know, just from working on the side, that if you want to earn in the self employed world, you have to work hard for it, but the reward is much greater!
Hooray 4 U!
I hope people reading this all realize that you have diversified: You have spread your talents across various endeavours, avoiding the mistake of “putting all the eggs in one basket” like that Leroux fellow who lost his 6-figure income overnight when Google changed an algorithm – here’s a link: http://www.famousbloggers.net/future-proof-seo-how-to-avoid-losing-everything.html
That article is just another reason why I do diversify. I could probably make it on one or two big clients, but I’d almost rather having lots of smaller ones that way if one disappears, it’s not my only source of income. And if one industry just went under, I’d have lots to fall back on as well.
Nice one,
Really in this post something for each and every body if we want we can learn lot of things from this post.
sam @ goa carnival recently posted Goa Carnival 2012
Thanks Sam!
Congratulations on your bigest milestone on your journey! I to read Farnoosh’s articles when they were published and it is not an easy jump to make!
Congratulation, I wish yo the best and will keep an eye out for any tips that may be coming
Arfan@Power of Attorney UK recently posted Lasting Powers of Attorney and Bankruptcy checks
Thanks Arfan! Farnoosh is a great inspiration in that area – I hope to write more about it soon!
Congratulations for being able to shift to work from home. I believe life becomes very flexible and you will be able to do more tasks now. My wife has been working from home from the last five years and taken good care of our children while excelling in her writing profession. I hope you will also be successful in your endeavor.
Leo recently posted Mis métodos y consejos para dejar de fumar
Thanks Leo! That sounds like the same path I plan on taking!
Kristi,
Congratulations! Fabulous news. I know you’ll be hugely successful – no doubt in my mind whatsoever! Farnoosh is a great inspiration to me as well. I also found her book very motivating.
Angela Artemis/Poweredbyintuition recently posted Healing, One Touch At a Time
Thanks Angela!
Kristi, all the best to you and I can feel your enthusiasm throughout this post. Farnoosh is very inspirational and it’s a blessing that you guys connected. Vertical Measures will have a hard time finding someone to replace you – they might need 3 or 4 folks to fill your shoes.
Congrats!
Ileane recently posted Promoting Your Content on YouTube
Thanks Ileane! VM has some talented people taking over my work, so I’m sure they’ll be good.
Kristi,
Welcome to the Ranks of the self-employed. You have managed to do one heck of a lot, with working part-time, I’m almost scared see which you’ll be able to accomplish going at this full-time.
Once again congratulations and good luck ( although I’m sure you’d need no luck, since you make your own)
-Steve
Steve@Earn Money Online recently posted 7 Links of Highly Effective Posts
Thanks Steve! I do try to make my own, but luck never hurts in new endeavors.
Congratulations, Kristi, in this big step! I love working at home for myself, no boss, no office gossip etc. I am following your blogs and learning so much, I do write a blog but more to educate people about their health and I market products. Consumers today want more info and testimonials, so I am attempting to blog, teaching them to take better care of themselves.
Thanks Kay! Yes, I’m looking forward to not getting involved in any more office drama.
I’ve been looking into eBook writing as well so make sure to keep us updated on the process if you decide to go that route.
Chad@Dallas Internet Marketing recently posted Consumer Buying Behavior: Interesting Survey Results
Definitely will document my experiences in that area Chad!
Hi Kristi,
Congratulations and good luck, this type of move can be scary! I went the other way myself, going from full time self employed (since 2003) to employed (2009). I found that working alone really didn’t suit me and missed working in a team, but I can see why you would want to become self employed. It can be challenging and exciting at the same time, so I wish you well in your endeavours!
Thanks Dave! It’s really about finding that happy work zone – my productivity is greatly increased in a quiet, uninterrupted environment which I look forward to enjoying!
Congratulations, Kristi. You are consistently one of the most helpful, positive, and knowledgeable people in the blogosphere. I am sure you will soon be buried in work.
Stephanie Suesan Smith @vegetable gardening recently posted Top Ten Scary Bugs
Thanks Stephanie. I’m fortunate that I already am buried in it.
Congrats!
Its posts like these that keep us newbie bloggers chugging away at the keyboard. Hopefully one day I can say good bye to the 9-5 and hello to working in PJs!!
Chris@4 Month Sleep Regression recently posted How I Fixed Our Toddlers Poor Sleep in 1 Night
Thanks Chris! I hope you can too one day!
Congratulations on your adjustment! I’ll have to be sure to keep visiting your blog to see how your transition goes! Best of luck to you!
Chicago SEO recently posted Evolving Interactive News Open for Guest Blog Posts
Thanks!
Congratulations Kristi. I am truly happy for you. In the short time I have been reading your blog, I have learned so much from you and I am sure your expertise and knowledge will help lots of people.
I hope you self employment journey will be successful and one with joy and happiness.
Satrap@ Make Money Online recently posted Get Paid to Drive
Thanks Satrap!
Congrats Kristi. It’s been great working with you and you most certainly will be missed here at Vertical Measures. Hope to keep in touch!!
Kaila recently posted 7 Criteria to Consider When Building Links
Thanks Kaila – it was great working with you too and I’m sure we’ll keep up online and maybe at some local events!
Good Luck in your new endeavor!!!
Mike Huber@Link Building Company recently posted 7 Criteria to Consider When Building Links
Thanks Mike!
That’s great news Chrissie… er Kristi. Congrats on your new adventure!
Larry Lourcey recently posted Taking Senior Portraits To The Next Level
Hehe… thanks Larry! And that was a fun interview!
That is so awesome, Kristi… congrats on leaving the rat race and living the dream! I am so happy for you.
I have no doubt that you will “kill it” in the freelance writing world. You are an inspiration to all of us who ultimately want to follow in your path.
All the best,
Bob
Dr. Bob Clarke recently posted 11 Questions For Part Time Blogging Expert Jane Sheeba
Thanks Bob! I hope to be able to write more about it once I’m fully engrossed in the new world of self-employment!
Congratulations Kristi! Looks like your online success is about to skyrocket now that you have complete focus on it. Wishing you the best!
Eugene recently posted Win $1,500 Worth of Free Consulting to Boost Your Business!
Thanks Eugene!
Congratulations on your new endeavor! Here’s to your success. Will definitely be checking on your posts regularly to get the latest updates.
Thanks Justin! I should be posting more often now, here and everywhere else.
Congratulations on your transition
Zablon Mukuba recently posted Saving money while volunteering abroad
Thanks Zablon!
Kristi,
Congratulations on achieving this goal! It’s great to see, and I wish you all the best. Considering what you have achieved doing this part time, I know you are going to be killing it now.
Best wishes for continued success!
Adam @ Customer Service Blog recently posted Monthly Mash: Customer Experience Tools and Secret Service
Thanks Adam! I will enjoy exploring what I can do with all the extra time to focus on working for myself.
Hey Kristi, HUGE congratulations on striking it out on your own! From following your work for the last 6-12 months, I kind of had a feeling that would happen at some point.
But really happy to see that you’ve made the move. I made the transition a couple years ago and the beginning is rocky, but hang in there because it will get better. (I actually have a guest post on Pamela Slim’s blog coming out soon about that transition!) I’ve been wanting to work with you forever now, so once we get some kind of decent budget together, don’t be surprised to hear from me. 
Carmen Sognonvi@local business marketing recently posted The Mindset Mistake That Could Destroy Your Business
Yayyyy for uuuuu! This is so cool. If I somehow come across someone that can benefit from your services, I’ll totally refer them. Congratulations! Guts and passion! All day!
Ryan Critchett@RMC Tech Computer Repair recently posted Thanks To The Lehigh Valley Twitter Community
Kristi,
Wow! Your story sounds familiar. Basically working two jobs until you can make a go of the one you want to do. I’ve been down that path and I’m betting you won’t believe how much you enjoy this. Congratulations!
p.s. Better get out of the 15 hour workday mode soon or the supportive spouse starts to get a little cranky
Congrats Kristi! This is a brave move. I’ve seen your name attached to more and more stuff around the web. You’re a truly talented lady. Wishing you continued success.
Liz Hover recently posted How to approach a blogger
Hi Kristi,
Well done, it is important you do this on your own terms. I love my 1 minute commute too. Still working for yourself is tough and needs dedication and structure so no bad habits creep in.
All the best!
Nik@Career Coaching recently posted Do I really need a career coach?
Hy Kristi!
Congratulations, I’ve done some researches on the net.. and well, a lot of material! I hope and I wish you the best for this new adventure! I’ll keep an eye on your future articles and tips!
Tiana@how to get quick money recently posted Business To Business Email Marketing – The 6 Keys to Succeed
Congratulation for your success and this post is mile stone for all those who are newbie on this road. This all is because of your self recognizance and keen interest in your work. We can present your work as example to others.
Maja@fantastic sams recently posted Tips for Healthy Hair
Hiii Kristi !!
Congratulations… I am very happy after reading this . I regular read your blog and find all posts interesting, all of your posts are full of knowledge and i keep using it in my Internet marketing efforts, this time your post related to self employment journey is really nice and hope your all efforts will ends with achievements.
Thanks for sharing this..
Brainpulse recently posted Finding Missing Explorer Folders and Applets in Windows 7
Congratulations Kristi – that’s wonderful!
As a former Career Coach, there were many people that would comment about starting up their own business, yet never actually did anything about it. Yet, for those people who did – they never looked back and wondered why they hadn’t had the courage to do it sooner.
Much success in your business Kristi!!
Annemarie Cross recently posted Twitter Strategies: How to increase engagement and exposure
Kristi … rock on. Your work ethic = you stand out. I have NO doubt you’re going to be very successful and happy. Congrats!
Tia Sparkles Singh recently posted 21 Days of Inner Sparkle e-course + Book giveaway winner
w00t w00t! Congratulations!!
So excited for you. You’re “wicked smaht” (said in my best Matt Damon voice from ‘Good Will Hunting’). And way to wrap up the first week with Blogworld!
Ricardo Bueno recently posted Fighting Through Your Creative Blocks
Wow, you are so brave! Are you worried about making a consistent income to live on at all? Good luck!
Kristi
Sorry I’m late in saying…THAT IS AWESOME.
I’ve been so busy with client work, it has taken up a lot of my time and I enjoy every minute!
And I know you will.
Great news – made my day.
Andrew
This is intriguing to me, Kristi, for I’m looking for opportunities to get me *out* of my own business, working either part-time or full-time. Congrats on your move.
Ari Herzog @ New Media Explorer recently posted Letting Go
Kristi,
Congratulations! I’m a new subscriber of yours and what a great post to open today for inspiration. I work 9 – 5 in the legal field, which is complex and demanding in and of itself. Although I’m exhausted and drained in the evenings, I am in front of my computer close to midnight most nights. Most times I feel that I’m spinning my wheels because there is sooo much to learn. Today, you have become one of my sheros!
Janet Thomson recently posted Top 10 Blogs for Authors
Hii Kristi,
I also read your all previous posts and almost know each and every thing, your journey to self employed, it is very nice to hear when you get independent for ownself.
I use to read your all posts and share my views, i like all posts which you share in ypur blog.
Thanks Kristi !!!
Brainpulse recently posted Web Hosting Service Domain Weak Points can be Handled Technically
Good for you! Congrats! All the best in your new journey!