To be struggling with the idea of ending my business for some security?

[FortunesFave]

I've been running my own business for ten years now. I write content and copy for a variety of businesses.

I've done better over the past 3 years than ever before and I'm still doing ok but my income isn't what DH and I need it to be in order for us to enjoy a bit more security.

I've been applying and applying for roles for which I am experienced but I think that because I've been self-employed for so long, people are wary.

The only interviews I've been getting (literally been looking for 2 weeks) are for retail and admin. Nothing wrong with those at all...I did apply for them...but I do feel a bit sad at the idea of suddenly working 9-5...and being an employee.

Not like I've failed exactly but like...it's such a big change! I think once I settle into a role I will be fine...I was quite excited to have a telephone interview today for an admin and customer service role but I'm also scared!

AIBU to be so worried about the transition? Any advice please?

Karma thanks...I'm in Australia though so we're not as badly off as the rest of the world re. Covid.

It is the security that's attracting me now...I just want to know what's coming in. My business is 10 years old so quite established but I think I will earn about half as much again with even part time employment.

You and your DH have looked at your finances and realized that your self employment income won't give you better long term security. It good that you realized this now as it gives you a chance to change jobs.
I know it will be a big change in your life but you need to think long term. Once you get a new job your employer might give you cash towards a pension. You will have X amount a week or a months salary and not be chasing up money that your owed. Also you may have sick pay if you cannot work due to an operation ect. Once you go back working for an employer and get some experience you can always change jobs to something better.
Maybe in the future you could be in a position to take early retirement due leaving self employment. I look on changing from being self employed to being employed as a positive thing to improve your life long term.

Content writing is pretty flexible. Can you get a job and then do some freelancing on the side? It makes tax a bit awkward but it's doable.

If it has only been two weeks, I wouldn't rush into a job in admin or retail. I'm sure if you persist you can get something more closely related to your skills.

Maybe something where you can work from home and have some flexibility over your own hours would be more of a transition?

I run three businesses and it is tough so I understand your concerns. A lot of it is to do with your own character and being honest with yourself about how you are going to feel working for someone else. Losing your autonomy, the freedom of acting in ways that benefit you and your family instead of anonymous shareholders or public sector behemoths, not being able to to use the skills that self-employed people have in bounds; motivation, focus, resourcefulness, initiative etc etc. Many companies embrace these skills but many many more stifle them. Is this a trade-off you are prepared to make? You can always give it a try and if it doesn't work out return to being self-employed, or a balance of both options, the opportunities are endless. Good luck!