Have you ever started your own business or are you planning on starting one?

Yep, I'm my own boss as a lawyer, but worked in private practice for ~5 years before I made the decision to just go at it solo. I got lucky and inherited the clientele of someone planning on retiring, so I didn't start from scratch. However, I did keep the accountant plus one (very competent) assistant, which made the transition easier.

It's been good so far! My experience has been unique insofar as we have some major contracts that produce ongoing business, so I don't really need to look for clients very often. I can also work remotely very easily, but get free office space via a generous family member (who is also a lawyer) when I need it. I write a lot of expenses off as well, which can be fun.

My hours are very flexible and I have good work-life balance since I can (sort of) choose how much of a workload I'd prefer most of the time. Of course, it requires some self-discipline - but I know my extremely niche practice area very well and getting things done is not difficult for me, so I manage okay.

/r/AskWomenOver30 Thread