Are you haunted by unfinished creative projects or dreams? Make a list of the major ones. Are you still interested in pursuing one or more of them? Note which projects/pathways, if any, are still compelling to you. Creativity is about magnetism and commitment.

After an unsuccessful nine-month job search, Darlene Dawson, a former vice-president of a bank mortgage department, knew she was stuck. Darlene lost her job in the midst of a take-over. She opted against outplacement assistance because she was sure she'd be hired quickly elsewhere. Now she feels angry, frustrated, and pessimistic about her options.

Bob Jones, a training manager for a healthcare company, felt over managed and plateaued in his job. He had also looked for a new position for six months and berated himself for not finding one.

Most of us were taught as children not to draw attention to ourselves, show off, or even talk about ourselves. In addition, there are all sorts of negative stereotypes about sales and marketing people as being pushy, intrusive, obnoxious, and dishonest. Also, we can all recall being trapped with people who dominate conversations and brag incessantly about how wonderful they are. No wonder that the idea of self-promotion may evoke some discomfort.

Ah, the fantasies . . . make your own hours, invent your own rules, choose your own associates, express your creativity, and make unlimited money.

These are the dreams of the aspiring self-employed. Yet, if you interview people who have built a profitable business, they will tell you about the long hours, financial insecurity, lost contracts, loan problems, self-employment tax, and the daily dance with risk that it takes to run your own business. On the positive side, there are many self-employed folks who thrive on the excitement and challenge of designing their own company. What’s the best option for you? Are you emotionally ready for the journey?