Sorry, this is really long but would really appreciate some advice. I do editorial work, have done for 13.5 years. Used to edit magazines now do a combination of freelance editing and writing for magazines and other publications. I don't want to go back to that full-time because DH works v long and often unpredictable hours and our home life works a lot better with me having flexible working hours. Also I do a fair amount of unpaid community work that I'd like to carry on with. However, recently the freelance market has been a bit rubbish. I've got work most of the time but I spend a lot of time coming up with ideas for stuff that then often gets postponed/cancelled so while the pay looks good on paper (e.g. how much you get paid per issue) - income is very unpredictable and in the end I often do quite a lot of unpaid work. And because of the nature of that work (i.e. coming up with 'ideas') it tends to take up whatever time I have available making timetabling a bit tricky.
We're v lucky to be in a strong position financially, kids (almost 4 and 6) are now at school full-time so no childcare costs, DH's salary takes care of mortgage/most big costs so the financial side is not such a problem but I just find the business of not knowing how much work I'll have/when I'll get paid etc really frustrating. It all feels a bit pointless. So, I'm looking for something more reliable but am not sure if I really have any skills that are marketable in other areas. I can write and edit but so can millions of people, I studied languages but they're a bit rusty now. Was considering doing a CELTA course but so many people (especially mums) seem to do that and I wonder if the market is a bit saturated. Anyone care to share their thoughts/experiences?
Thanks, folks