I learned that I have enough skills to make meaningful things for other people.<p>I have been a hobbyist programmer all my life. This year I realized I wanted to use my skills to build things that are actually used by others. I accepted a freelance position that came my way, and I wish I had looked for this kind of work years ago. I see now, that I could have as much technical work as I care to take on.<p>If you are thinking of freelancing and have never tried it, take a chance. Don't quit your day job, but take on a side project. Most of us here have the skills to do at least some freelance work.
That I've failed.<p>If one thing among a handful of fundamental things goes wrong, I'm homeless or dead. I have no savings or backup. I don't have the courage or health to be homeless.<p>Don't fail. I don't mean the cute fail fast and pivot. I mean don't fundamentally fail managing your life. There is no do-over.