Types of 1099 setbacks

by Dale Davidson

In my last e-mail I mentioned that setbacks are a feature, not a bug of 1099 life.

Here are some of the typical 1099 setbacks or obstacles you'll encounter. Remember, they're features of this career path, not bugs.

  • Failed first (and second, and third) attempt at getting a 1099 gig
  • Getting a lower billable rate than you wanted
  • Contracts or projects falling through
  • Toxic clients
  • Bureaucratic obstacles like security clearance delays
  • Everything just taking way longer than you want
  • Getting negative feedback on your work
  • Feeling stuck in your career; lack of advancement
  • Feeling lonely without co-workers
  • General boredom
  • Toxic contractor project managers
  • Late or incorrect payments
  • High healthcare costs

As you encounter these you may be tempted to just shake your fist at the sky in frustration.

But, it's better to accept them and see if you can use these to become better at handling setbacks.

Go through enough of these and eventually, very little will be able to rattle you.

Want the full playbook? Check out Going 1099.

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