My Journey: A Brief Overview

In 2002, my life took an unexpected turn when my wife left, forcing me to adapt quickly as a single parent to our three-year-old son. The pressures of working long hours at AOL while raising a child became overwhelming. So, I made a bold decision: I left behind a $150,000 salary. Though I had some savings, the financial reality hit hard when legal fees piled up after my wife’s departure. I knew I had to act fast to keep my home.

I stepped away from the tech world and returned to simpler, more direct ways of making money.

Getting Outside

While there are pros and cons to outdoor work, I find that being cooped up in an office has more downsides. I thrive outdoors—enjoying the sun, fresh air, and physical activity. My past roles as a lifeguard, brick mason’s assistant, and concrete laborer were fulfilling, though they didn’t quite pay enough for my aspirations.

However, I acquired valuable skills that I still utilize today.

Lawn Care and Construction

I began a landscaping business, offering lawn mowing, aeration, fertilizer application, weeding, and building patios. Homeowners are often too busy to maintain their yards, preferring to relax in beautiful surroundings.

To attract clients, print flyers or business cards and engage directly with potential customers. Your efforts will pay off in the form of satisfied clients and a healthy income—plus a nice tan!

If the outdoors isn’t your scene, there are plenty of options indoors.

Staying Indoors

If outdoor labor isn’t for you, numerous opportunities exist within the comfort of your home.

House Cleaning

Having served in the U.S. Marine Corps, I learned to push beyond my limits and keep spaces spotless. I realized many people struggle to maintain clean homes due to their busy schedules.

I printed flyers and knocked on doors in my neighborhood. By day’s end, I had five weekly clients, each paying $100 per visit. By dedicating a few long days to this work, I easily earned $2,000 a month—all in cash, which, as you know, is always preferable.

Babysitting

Though not my personal preference, babysitting can be a lucrative option for many. According to Care.com, the average weekly rate for after-school care is around $250. Advertise your services on platforms like Craigslist or through local community boards, and you could earn up to $500 weekly by watching two kids until their parents return home.

Writing

You might roll your eyes at the suggestion to start a blog, but sharing your unique experiences can resonate with many. I’ve been writing online since 2003, starting with a book about my divorce.

You don’t need a dedicated website; platforms like Medium and Substack allow you to share your insights for free. Your story could inspire others who are desperate to escape the corporate grind.

Creative Writing Ideas

• Document your health journey: weight changes, mental health, exercise routines.
• Chronicle your financial experiences: successes and failures in earning and investing.
• Share personal stories about relationships and dating.

Simply write. It can be transformative.

Taking Action

Some individuals face limitations yet still earn significantly more than most. Are you holding onto excuses that prevent you from pursuing self-employment?

Self-employment can seem daunting, but you hold the power to alter your circumstances.

Consider Jon Morrow, a successful entrepreneur who has been paralyzed since birth. His story, shared in a captivating podcast with James Altucher, highlights resilience: “Every day I wake up with that gun to my head. Every day I live.”

What’s stopping you from truly living your life today? Join my private email list for unconventional insights that might just change your perspective.