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I'm pretty broke most of the time as there are always bills, holidays, fuel, shopping, insurance and a teenage daughter to drain my coffers, but I'm glad I went self-employed and can't wait to get my tree tickets.
Happy Father's day to all out there, I got a cool t-shirt from my young-un's. Hope business is good.
Got loads of wild life related items from sprogs for farthers day and a prezzy from one of my daughters friends(don't know how I'm going to explain that to the wife!).
I know I'm never going to make a million, but enjoy the freedom of being my own man being self employed.
Went to Nonnas in Chesterfield for brunch for fathers day. If you are ever in Chesterfield look it up. It is one of the best Italian delis / cafes going.
i have told people i can come in a few days and do the job within 10 days. i explained i am reliable etc,
just not quick enough for some people. if they cant have a 'little' patience i dont want there business as im busy because i am good /in demand !! (without being proud) humble bumble... im already charging full rates as its middle of June and i have to earn for winter / when it rains.......... doesn it cost alot to run a good business ( i dont really go out, or drink as always tired /quoting & organising , sending quotations/invoices ) just the odd meal to make sure i eat well enough
turning down work is good if you cant help it....
Paul @ Ashgate Garden Care said:
As you say it costs a lot to invest in the right kit. I win a lot of jobs because I have the correct gear and can do the jobs that the ten pound an hour bridgade are not equipped to do.
Gardens4u.co.uk said:
I have found that by advertising myself with the right approach, and being a stubborn, persistent bugger, I can win almost any work that I want. About 60% of my work is commercial and the rest domestic, for which I now charge £140 a day labour, plus any profit from plants, one-off work, machine hire etc. Hedging goes in at a much higher rate as do commercial jobs, lawn treatments, grass cutting etc.
I'm full to the end of October and then I'll still be working at a 60-70% income through the whole winter due to contract work, which is more than enough to pay the bills and save a little.
I have no regrets other than not going down this line of work sooner. Consultancy really is a poor alternative.
Still might have to spend December making holly wreaths but I'm hoping not.... has to be the all-time worst job.
Hope everyone else's year is going as well as mine.
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