Does anyone actually make a living from their own business?

[Moomoola]

I’ve a background in print and design, I’d like to sell my own gifts etc, like everyone else in Britain. Dp is very disparaging, but surely it can be done? I’d ideally like to take home £20 k a year, which seems enormous amounts. It just seems if I’m going to work 37 hrs a week for someone else, for this or less, I could do that for me? Of course I need to perused Dp and myself it’s possible. Obv some people make a mint ( most everyone on you tube it seems ) and some people won’t. So guess I’m asking for reassurance ( or not) and some tips , mainly on mindset as I seem to be too nervous of failing and Dp will be disappointed/ pissed off. Ta!

I would be wary of mentors OP.

It is your business- and the way you run your business is very unique to you.
Decisions of which areas to spend your time, which things to focus on are the meat and bones of a small business.
I have had advice over the years, much of it unsolicited, and most of it well meaning.
For instance my DD thinks having a social media presence is essential- but at the moment I don't use it. Things may change in the future, I am always open to new ideas.
I have considered employing staff, but decided against it.
I know my business has huge potential for growth but having given it a lot of thought decided to stay in this sweet spot.
Working alone means I have a huge amount of flexibility, I can stop or start a project as my energies take me. I don't want my revenue to rise above the VAT threshold because that sounds dull and bothersome.
My profits take me into the higher rate tax bracket and I am happy with that. Enough to live a simple life and to save.
Finding balance is important too- especially working from home. My business is also my "hobby" so there is no clear demarcation between my work and play- and that suits me well, I can really enjoy my work. But it does mean my work materials do tend to cause some clutter and take over the house in busy periods.

I work in a creative field too, and one thing I would urge is to be mindful of your own mental health. Life is full of stressors and many of us have anxieties, our responses can cause blockages and stem the muse, the free flow of ideas and ability to problem solve can be reduced when anxious.
I prioritise activities that nurture and calm me- walking in the forest, yoga- when I have mental clarity and emotional regulation then everything is easier.

Thanks soeakout!
it’s Xmas again and I’m super busy on Etsy, which is amazing as I’ve not had chance to advertise At All.
thank you for the tips re mental health - I’ve actually been seeing a counselor and it’s slipped over into mental approach to business. I’m now a LOT more confident, feel more like me, and more like I CAN get this off the ground. The difference in me is amazing. Worth every, very expensive, penny, but I just thought it was worth it to not be struggling quite so much. Also I’m now excited and feel capable, so hoorah! And yes, I agree with you and another poster who also said they considered mental health part of their job.
I need to keep the momentum after Xmas and am already looking forward to next year. My bar is fairly low- to earn more than my current £11 an hour in a job that I’m not very skilled aT, and to do something I’m actually good at. I know now, that I have the talent, the rest I can learn, I am sure.
I also want to earn enough to buy a de vol kitchen! Ha! Now that IS a scary goal!