It’s a personal decision for all of us, Matthew. My income fluctuates up and down. Sometimes I have a few weeks with no assignments, and the I get swamped with more work than I want.

Having a regular job does provide steady cash flow, and you can also freelance on the side.

I’ve been considering this a lot myself lately. I love, without question, my freedom and ability to spend time with my family. But Income hasn’t been as great of late, and I’m concerned both about where it’s going to lead and my ability to correct that. I’m not sure I’d consider myself the best marketer. But your article makes a lot of sense and gives good food for thought.

It’s unfortunate that there’s no health insurance or retirement benefits. Perhaps you can go back to full-time freelancing?

I was a good enough employee, but I didn’t like the rigidity of schedules or having to take orders I didn’t agree with.

A truth about me is I’m a damn fine worker and not a very good employee.

I’m glad the post helped you, John. It’s a tough decision. I hope either the right position comes along or your freelance writing income improves.

I’ve done some interviews for full-time marketing jobs, but nothing has worked out yet (both from the employers and me). I’m being selective as I don’t want to give up too much (long commute, time with kids) just in the name of steady money.

It is a very tough decision and I’m not sure which way I’ll go eventually, but the considerations you list are a great way to weigh it out.

From what I’ve observed, government jobs are most likely to provide decent health insurance. I know teachers who have very good plans.