Dixon >> You're an inspiration! I wlll endeavor to be more selective of the projects I take. Often times, it's hard to tell with new clients. I give every client the benefit of the doubt and if the work process turns out be soul-destroying, no second chance. As for long tern clients, some accounts that I've serviced for more than 10 years can still take on different dynamics when people in organisations move around. For larger organisations, with multiple departments using my services, I don't know how to explain why I will service one department but not another. (How to politely say, I don't like your face?)
Hehehhe, glad that you're inspired, but behind the scenes, sometimes it's not as easy as we'd like it to be.
I totally understand how painful it can be when a regular client's marketing manager moves on to another company and someone new takes over that position. It's almost as painful as dealing with a new company.
Being selective with our work is definitely important because ultimately, our services are quite manpower/time intensive.
We can only do so much in a day/week/month. Most of the time, we can't just hire someone else to take over our work. Clients choose to work with u because they like your style/attitude/skills, and they'd definitely not be happy if you simply outsource for another cam op/editor to do the job for you.
After working in the industry for so many years, I have long threw any artistic ego aside. I can always adapt to the 'artist' or 'technician' mode easily. If clients value my creative call, then good, I will give my best input....otherwise, I'd be happy to be your friendly button pusher who will make sure that all technical quality is maintained.
As an independent, self-employed, or freelance, i guess the key is to be able to do what you like and make money out of it.. You're the boss, you're in control.
If you're doing something that you dislike or hate, or feel that you're underpaid for your time, then i think that takes away the purpose of being self-employed.
Keep your overheads low, be more selective and free up more time for better work.
I understand that there are some 'bread & butter' jobs to take, but once u fill up all your time and make yourself busy with those, then you tend to push away some that may potentially be more rewarding.
Two cents again...