I now work solo about 90% of the year (lately mostly what I would call “upper end” kit./bath remodels — top end materials and enough labor time in the budget to do good work, custom carpentry, with a mix of just about everything else except high work masonry — too many near death experiences with heavy materials up high put me off that).
Love it about 80% of the year (what’s not to love). The other 20%, sometimes it’s tough to stay focused and keep the jobs moving, for no real reason.
Earlier this winter I worked with a friend on his framing crew and I enjoyed working on a crew, but I’m also happy it’s done and I’m my own boss again. Just some days I don’t end up on the job site as early as others. What do you other solos do to stay focused day to day? I bring a radio on site, but some days of routine tasks sometimes seem like the “doldrums” and I was wondering if there are some tips to keep it interesting and the jobs moving.
Thanks in advance.
Replies
Thanks for posting this. I also work mostly alone, and deal with the same issues. I'll think this over, and reply more on it later. Interesting to see what others have to say.
"he...never charged nothing for his preaching, and it was worth it, too" - Mark Twain
Good thread, I'll be following this one.
Some days I enjoy being alone, but it's not really when I work best. I get the doldrums too, then wind up knocking off early or not getting the job done that needs doing - do something else instead. Best solution I've found is a good helper. Many times he'll just get involved with what needs to be done, and that gets me started again. Sometimes just having somebody to talk to makes it better.
Don K.
EJG Homes Renovations - New Construction - Rentals
My Dad always told me that the best way to get over feeling depressed is to get something done.
Goals give a plan for that "something".
"xyz" on the docket before the day begins. Then,
"x" done before lunch...
"y" done before pee break....
"z" done before the day is finished.
Little goals are the best means I've found to make the doldrums go away.
Take it from someone who easily gets taken over by depression.
Troy Sprout
Square, Level & Plumb Renovations
That's true - I've come to realize that instead of thinking about how I'm going to do something - I should just start doing it and it'll figure itself out.BTW - I'm working on an estimate...JT
I'm always glad to read posts like this, because it helps justify my own lack of motivation.
I've found it the worst during slower months Jan/Feb. I just kind of deal with it, and don't make any ridiculous promises. I went from working 60+hrs, 7 days a week to 20hrs 3 days a week.
I thought I had it beat last year, and now I'm experiencing it again. I have two large projects in limbo right now, so I'm sure when they start to move forward I'll snap out of it.
Employees help, but I still don't see the advantage. I make just as much now, and I don't have all the BS to put up with.
I have a similar buisness model, work mostly alone, carpentry buisness, various sized jobs from a few hundred dollars to the ocassional 6 figure remodel.
Just the variety of work I do pretty much keeps me on my toes day to day. This morning I sprayed texture on some drywall (had to blend with existing texture), haven't done that in a few years so I had to invest quite a bit of mental energy getting the mix right, adjusting the spray texture to splatter right, etc.
Yesterday the challenge was to get the last coat of mud good enough without wasting time going farther than needed for texture.
Tomorrow I'll be painting walls and ceiling.
Day after tomorrow it will be installing cabinets (that I didn't order) from one of the big box stores - a couple appliance garages need to be cut down...
You get the picture. Anyways, for a lot of folks these may all seem like mundane tasks. To me, each has definate challenges that I strive to meet. And I definately see that I'm doing better and better work the longer I stay at it, so that motivates me too.
Here's another thing that I think helps. When I get done with this project I won't just be driving to the next one. I will have (at least I hope I will) a couple, maybe three weeks to work on a house we own that we have been remodelling. Of course, that's about as good as it gets, working on your own place, right?
But the thing is, when I was younger, I'd bust my butt finishing a job as soon as I could, only to start another job when I had finished the first. Now I try to schedule down time between jobs, a set reasonable schedules for the jobs I DO take on. That way I seldom get caught feeling pressured and can focus on what really fulfills me, the work itself, instead of "getting it done".
Maybe the single biggest thing is that I enjoy working alone. I don't mean I tolerate it, or white knuckle my way through it, I thrive on it. It's nice to have company once in a while, but I get plenty of that from subs, customers, the gang at Breaktime, the Missus at night. I really like the flow I get into when working alone and usually notice I tense up when working with others. TIPI,TIPI,TIPI!
Come on Jim, we had fun working together, no?
Well, I guess it really wasn't work.
I'm in sort of agreement with you on the enjoyment of working alone. I produce so much more and in a calm manner when all the subs have gone and the homowners aren't around. Can't say it's the interuptions or whatever, but it just goes easier solo.A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
I choose to respond to you but not directly.
DW did it for me with her management skills . I hate to admit it but its true.
"The thing is that if we work and dont invest our time it burns up like cigarettes. "
Think about that one for a minute. .
Im sure there are many ways to do it for everyone if they think about it . Mine was rentals and flipping houses. Its also a cabin right now . If I spend 100 per week on my properties in material it keeps me working toward investing. I come home tired , grab a beer , and go sit on a lawnmower going over a lot or two Ive bought. Go trim a tree or fix a step , it doesnt matter. Working on your own property makes you feel different and thus gives you a break. Thats how I work 7 days a week unless I feel bad. Accomplishment of your own investment is gratifying.
Men and women seem to share being pepped up by buying a new dress or a new tool. Its fun using a new tool and its also investing.
Im 53 and for the last two years Ive had to have help through sickness . Im working alone at present because Im able to but as I told Dan its time to refocus . Im going to have to start teaching and instructing instead of working . The help that Ive had all have a better "get around " than I do. Guys that are 20 yrs old have unlimited energy. They have a hunger to learn and they love using tools . I used to not have time to try to teach but now its the better road. I feel like having at least one thats willing to work and learn gives me a kick in the tail thinking ahead.
A good hand on the job while Im at the lumber yard keeps things moving .
Rental property produces income whether you work on it or not. So does building a house to sell. There has always been profit for me above building a house or buying and flipping one . Ive always had hours plus profit in getting repaid . Rentals just keep paying and paying . They also increase in value over time which makes it like money in the bank thats growing you never touch. Then theres the dream come true . Owning enough rentals you are semi retired on a salary. You look up and theres a viable income after all those years of investment of time and a little money. Its time to fish or play golf. Sure a renter will move and give you the rental on a weekend and you have to go or the plumbing stops up at 9 pm on Sunday .
Ive bought and sold land after clearing it and its fun .
Ill have to say having the family with me on somthing we own is the best times . We make a day of painting and hanging blinds with a pic nic lunch. Good way to spend a Sunday. That keeps you looking forward to the weekends.
I still get the bummers like everyone else .
Tim
Edited 2/24/2006 8:51 pm by Mooney
I wouldn't take advice from any of these self employed contractors that are home cruising the net in the middle of the day. LOL
Sorry guys that's the first thought that came to my head when I saw this. I know it's the slow time.
Ugha Chaka! Ugha Chaka! Ugha, Ugha, Ugha, Chaka!
I find some good music helps. Sometimes I run through my entire Beatles collection and that always gives me a lift. I know what you mean though, I think it's like that for a lot of us.
John
I have usually worked alone---although I have many times had employees--and sometimes had " many" employees
but usually I have tried to stay solo
I use 2 variations of Hackinatits' suggestion
1) ordinarily I break everthing down into smaller tasks--- I love making lists--- nothing makes you feel accomplished like crossing things off of a list.-----and setting little goals( I will have this done by 8:30, this done by pee break, this done by lunch etc.---and then make a game of beating my projections)
that's ordinary procedure
2) sometimes I have motivation problems---like back in December. Agreed to side a garage for a long standing customer. I don't side all that much, it was freaking cold, slogging through snow up to my shins, vinyl cracking if you hit it wrong---------
so--- I just decided--- I don't care how long this takes---or how little gets done each day--- I am gonna go each day that there isn't a blizzard---and work from 8-12 each morning---and then I am going home.
Once I got there each day it wasn't so bad----- 12 oclock would be approaching and I would think---lets see If I can get this area done before 12.
12 oclock would arrive--and I would think---that wasn't so bad---why not stay untill 1:00---bet I can get sided all the way over to THERE.
just little stupid mind games like that.
historically, nothing motivates me like having to make tuition payments for my sons' educations. LOL
Stephen
You might take a look at the Taunton book Working Alone. The author has a good chapter on exactly this topic, as well as many handy hints, jigs, & tricks of the trade...
Agreed with the others about daily "To-Do" lists. But I try not to put more than 6 items on the list, then prioritize them. Often I'll write tommorrow's list at the end of the day. Also the end of the day list is much easier to remember what material or special tool I may need for the next day.
As far as goals, I try to track my income weekly. daily didn't work (too short), neither did monthly or quarterly (too long). maybe it's just the way my brain functions, but tracking my time goals weekly seems to work best.
I didn't function very well trying to operate an office out of my house, (way to easy to lay down on the couch). So when the opportunity came to rent a small cheap office I took it. One of the guys I used to work for had his small office in his detached garage. The thing is, even if I don't have a job to go to, I still dress for work and go to the office. Mentally I am either "at work" or I am home.
As far as getting to the jobsite early enough, sometimes it helps to tell the customer when I will be there, so I feel obligated to arrive on time. Those are the days I try not to read Breaktime in the morning. : )
To keep the job moving I try to track my estimated times from the bid, against what I am actually doing. (like a kitchen install where I have xxx amount of hours allowed for the uppers, but it is taking me YYYY hours to do) I find T&M projects to drag on because I have nothing to compare it to, and little incentive to operate efficiently.
Bowz
I work alone, unless my son is home from college and not with his GF, which isn't often, so, as I said, I work alone.
Before I leave the house in the am, I have a list (I also love lists) of goals or accomplishments I want to have done for the day. I also try to make the goals such that I need to really work at it to get them done.
I don't take a lunch/pee/smoke/anything else break, just work the entire day straight thru. I've found that when I break for anything, momentum is lost and getting it back requires twice the effort, so I just go-go-go.
When I'm busy, I want no distractions, not even music. I was rebuilding a set of porch stairs with my radio headphones on a few months back and quickly wasted a post. Removing the headphones brought back my concentration.
At night I annotate what I did during the day, which gives me an idea of what the next day will require. During the day, I mentally check off the things that I intended to do, and am constantly updating the list, making note of details that must be done to complete the task at hand.
There are disadvantages to this type of system, though. Sometimes I will breeze through my goals and then stand around for a bit trying to figure what to do next. I have to reanalyze and set up new goals. This usually isn't a problem, though, as I usually set the goals such that I can't get them all done in the day. I found I work faster and remain focused that way.
Of course, sometimes I'll finish my goals for the day, take a break, shooting the momentum in the foot, say the heck with it, and go catch a matinee.
Self employment is great.
"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." Invictus, by Henley.
This is a very interesting thread as I to very often work alone {even when there are other subs on site doing something else} and some times find that I'm not really getting that much done. I really beat myself up over it for awhile and then I came to the conclusion that these periods were really supporting what I was about to do. I do really complicated design through finish remodels and I do it for time and materials so I feel like I should always look like I'm working my butt off. I now tell customers that there will be days when not much will happen and that it is part of getting it done right. The rest of the time they are asking how so much got done that day and in the end it all averages out. So just keep your head down and do the next thing. It works for me.
I've had times where I've had 2-3 guys working for me and others when I've been solo. Much less pressure & headaches solo, but tough to do the bigger jobs by yourself. The best scenario as someone else suggested is having 1 good helper. Keeps you motivated, gives you some help, and is fairly easy to supervise/handle. Problem is, finding a good one. Ideally, my plan is to find someone in a similiar situation that I can call on for short term help when I need it, and help them out short term when they need it. Saves on the expense of hiring someone fulltime and lets you take a break here & there if you want one. When you have a few guys going, you rarely stop between working, looking at work, & managing your business.
In the last few years of working for myself I worked alone fairly often. Even when I had a partner we were often on seperate jobs.
I have a special motivational trick that seems to work well.
Every Morning at about 5:45 AM my wife would put her foot squarely in the middle of my back and push until I fell out of bed and onto the floor. Then she would chase me out of the house and deadbolt the door behind me. She wouldn't let me back in until I made a certain amount of money each day.
Works like a charm.
Hey, by the way, if you run out of challenges on the main line, I've got a great neighborhood for you.
I work at the end of Ogontz Ave near Central and LaSalle. Lots of "Improments" needed there. Besides, dodging the gunfire would be enough to keep you motivated.
I agree to setting small achievable goals and just going at it. Radio helps but I hope satelite radio soon will be even nicer. And I like clean up and tool put away at end of day. Gets me centered for next attack ; good time to make material and tool list ; clients like coming to clean job as much as i like starting day with one. Plus Smokey my dog is there all day so he provides some comic and predatory relief.Plus if work some of the places i work 4-5 miles off hard road ;up a side of a mt; 4wd access this time of year u are motivated to 'get ur done' or ur just adding trips.
Seven things that help me out:
1) Have your stuff organized. I don't know why, but having a clean van well stocked with the stuff for the job makes me look forward to the job more. Aslo setting up a proper workstation on site helps me get motivated for the task at hand.
2) Take a lunch. I am not good at following this rule, but when I do I am always glad and never regret it.
3) Leave early. Why wait until your are completely burnt out, frustrated, and tired to leave the job? You can't work efficiently in that state anyway. Just do yourself (and the customer) a favor, beat the traffic, go home and relax.
4) Don't listen to talk radio. It's fun to listen to on the road, but you will be far less motivated trying to work with it in the background. It is just to attention demanding. Instead, keep the radio tuned to music. Music doesn't break your concentration.
5) Get a dog. A little buddy in the truck will cheer you up when things aren't going as planned. A little buddy will also force you to take a lunch and leave at a reasonable hour. A little buddy will also chew 3 of your cell phone chargers because they look like toys. I have my dog Willie with me 3 days a week, and I find I miss him when he's not there the other 2.
6) Maintain business hours and stick to them. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Leave a message on your phone that has these operating hours on them. Turn off the phone, then return the calls during operating hours. People appreciate the professionalism of maintaining a schedule. Plus you won't feel out of control when folks are calling you on Saturday or 10:00 pm.
7) Less Stress = More Focus. Figure out what stresses you out and make a game plan to eliminate these stresses.
--Andy
Okay, here it is some time after 7pm on a Tuesday. I took the day in my shop to tie up a bunch of lose ends. I picked up a door and sized it for a re-fit, polished some limestone for baseboards in a bathroom remodel (my 7 week project - darn good customer), designed a corner cabinet for the same job, cut down the pocket door for same, custom fit two oak thresholds for same, searched the internet for a lap-top, fed the cats, returned the door, placated my next remodel, talked to my plumbing supplier about an appointment for the bathroom after this one, prepared ad copy for the spring remodeling issues of the local papers, and started reading this thread. Besides the fact that it is my 60th birthday its been a pretty normal day. Yes. I hate being alone and all this activity is just a front to keep my mind off how much I dislike working alone. But on the good side, I had 7 employees at one time and I made no more money than I do now and I had 10 times the hassle. If you want to break-up the doldrums, hire an assistant from time to time just so you have someone to bounce things off of or yell at. I'm lucky in that I have someone that I work well with and we compliment each other on the job, my clients like her and she comes when I call but has other things to do so I don't need to feel guilty when I can't use her. No its not my wife, just and old friend that is rather handy. I've spent the last 7 weeks with her and if I don't kill her she will kill me. Today was a cooling down period. Thank god for solitude. Get some good CD's. I know this didn't help you much, but it just put my life in perspective.
A belated "Happy Birthday", youngster!
john
Hey Phil
I also work solo most of the time. On larger jobs I have a part time helper who i can call on to help out then by the end of the job I'm usually alone to do the trim and fussy work.
I Agree with some of the other posts and disaggree with some of the methodology.
I don't start my day real early, unless i have to roof something in the summer, then it's the old get going before the sun hits the roof thing.
I always take a lunch, Can't run on an empty stomach. It may not always be at noon depnding on what i'm working. but i eat lunch reguardless.
I also have a quick snack mid morning as well. it may only be a 5 minute break but it gives me time to step back and check progress and view potential problems before they happen.
I usually have the radio on as well. I'm pretty energetic so it's not uncommon to see me dancin around the job site while working. Of course if things are going badly I may start throwing things around as well.
Hey if you can't have fun at work then find another job.....
There are days it just seems better when my helper is around and other days I feel as though i get more done becuase i'm the only one i have to deal with. i can focus more on what i am doing not having to make sure that my helper is doing X or Y
correctly.
Kate had mentioned earlier about a book about working alone:
The title is : Working alone by John Carrol.
Great book... talks about working solo and some tricks to help you add that extra pair of hands that we don't have. Check it out if you can.
Hey good luck. And thanks for posting a good thread. It's nice to see how many others are working solo out there.
Ray
It seems each person needs to find what works for them.
Personally, I usually have to stick to a strict 8:00-12, 12:30-6:30 schedule for best long-term productivity. It's long enough that a lot gets done between monday and friday with weekends free to rejuvinate.
Counting my pennies each week helps to keep motivated. On the harder days I might figure how much I'll make if I keep going that day.
When quitting early for the day is an option I then become a clock watcher and justify cutting out earlier and earlier, or starting later with longer lunches and all the sudden I'm working 6 days a week and only logging 35 hours.
A coffee pot on site can also help to get rid of the afternoon blaws.
Many people are dehydrated by the afternoon and feel more tired than they really are by the afternoon, which makes the time drag by.
Beer was created so carpenters wouldn't rule the world.
Was it in the Means Manual that I read that the second you go from a single person to a two man crew, jobs take 23% longer to do. I think it's in the preface.
So if yer payin the wages, it might make a difference to the bottom line, and that impacts yer life-style to which you has become accustomed.
OTOH, it does make for fun when yer working on a job with others that you know.
I still got two hands, and after a week or three, so OTOH, by then it's time for a change anyway.
Eric
in Calgary
Thanks to everyone for some great ideas. It is gratifying to know that there are lots of us working solo and that it really isn't always easy. That alone gives a spark and freshness to the work, but I've also already started trying the ideas that all of you have suggested.
The key seems to be the planning list that just about every post recommended. I now get up early no matter what I'm doing that day (I don't quite get kicked out of bed by my better half, but I now get up before her and will keep a regular schedule), and morning coffee time now includes planning out the whole day on paper. Painless and definitely effective -- when I have a concrete plan in mind for the day, I almost can't wait to get to the job and dig right in to the work, so that really helps.
I'd also like to hire a helper more often, but the whole CGL insurance/w comp./taxes administrative burden (and cost!) always makes me think twice about whether I really need a helper and for me, I just can't see having a helper full time. Because of all that, I usually get a sub with his/her own insurance and payroll to help out when I need it. I would like to have someone to yell at from time to time ;-) but it's not in the cards for now.
Also, I think I have to pass on the Ogontz gunfire (yo! to a fellow Philadelphian). I had a partnership back in the 90's rehabbing a house in the Grad Hospital area (long before it "gentrified") and I've had my share of flintching at the unexpected sound of gunfire (for those not in Philadelphia, don't get the wrong idea -- it is a rare enough occurance but hey, it's a city and in certain areas it's something that happens). I know what it's like, though and it definitely makes the job move along to get it finished real quick.
Anyway, it's about quarter past 7 so I've got to get to work! Thanks again for all the help and keep those suggestions coming!
My biggest motivation is "the next big thing". I always make sure that I have something coming up, something like another project or even something personal. I have a hard time making a job important if I know I have more time to do it. But if I know that something else is coming, and quickly, then I hit the gas and finish whatever it is that I'm doing.
I like the idea of lists, but I only make out a list when I have a lot of different tasks that need to get finished before something bigger has to be started. I'm about to wrap up a bookcase for someone and I should be on the phone making some calls to get the next project started. I guess I should follow my own advice ;)
In other words, commit to being busy and you will have to stay busy to keep up. Joe
Thanks for posting this. I use lists and I prefer working alone. I have the JC book and it has really helped me. Now if I can just start saying no to these $#%@#$^ paint jobs, I'll be much happier.
Another in the Single workers club--Kids and wife help with the motivation but I find my own personal satisfaction at a job well done is most valuable to me.I have a bag of tricks to place 90% of the cabinets I install and a great repor with the GC to let me have their carp for 5 min to get the last 10%---They all know If I am on site I will help them and you get the bennies of a helper without the 23% slow down (interesting number)IAC I enjoy working alone--have the radio on to drown out the voices in my head and and times when the mitre are tight and the corners are square it is really hard to stop for the day--OTOH when you can't get one door to swing neutral it is WW III all day long. Makes me wish for rain in the house just so I can pull the pin for the day---Great thread---Mike"Even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while" Mitremike c. 1990" I reject your reality and substitute my own"
Adam Savage---Mythbusters
I don't like working alone. I'm about as ADHD as you can get without needing medication, other people around keep me focused. And, I hate eating lunch by myself.Still, I work by myself alot.Thing is, I bid every job, mostly new construction trim, like I'm doing it myself. Just cause I might have to, and because that's what it usually ends up costin'...that 23% extra with a helper is a bunch of hooey in my opinion. Maybe, I've gotten good help, but...Set of stairs that takes me 5 days by myself, takes me 2 1/2 with help...competent help, but still help...Right now I have my oldest son working with me. College grad with a grapichs arts degree, but wants to get into sustainable/green housing. He's back in school learning AutoCad and I'm getting to pay for it, and write it off. And, he's making me divert my energy ( got a contractor's license, and gonna do a spec house) into something I can really feel good about. I know that's sort of off topic, but since nobody really works solo, where your help comes from is a major factor.For solo motivation, whatever I do, I want to do it better, cleaner faster...I get that motivation from other real folks( as opposed to cyber space)...I love new jigs, fixtures, whatever it takes...and I love thinking that stuff up...static, blah...so, one of my great motivators is making sheeit up on the fly...also, a great big part of why I love it<G> Hey, pocket doors can't come off the track if they're nailed open
Have More Kids!
Sure keeps me working...
Started reading all these post sand its kinda funny. everyone has very different opinions. Some say not to listen to talk radio...I love listening to talk radio especially when I work alone. Its like having another person with me but I can shut him off easier if I want to...lol.
I've finally worked it to a place I love. Making money doing my own crib/s. I've worked over thirty years for myself...one job after the next after the next after the next...whewwwwwww!! I've worked for more people than I'd like to remember doing every building project imaginable.
The thing that gets you through.....is....not to try and get it through. Be there!
BE into it, because if you're not than you don't love what you're doing. Find something you do love before its too late.
You may simply need a real good sit down with yourself. Give your self a real good honest talking to about where you are in your life right now and what you hope to get out of it.
Its ALL about attitude. You're allowed to have bad days...we all do no matter what we do. But when you do have those bad days...think about why and file that in the bad day compartment in your head...work it through and file that as well so at the end of the year you can can sort out what exactly you're doing that allows repeat behavior that bothers you...and change it! BUILD that as well!! Your work shouldn't just be work...you spend more than half your life at it. So it should be just that...part of the life you want. Building to me is the end all do all. It represents everything I believe in. It teaches me more than how to put up cabs or build bookcases...Its about the foundation, the framing, the windows we look in and out of, the roofs over our head....get my drift? Its all about the total deal. If you incorporate all you learn on your jobs,,,into your life you may find it yet even more rewarding. Don't look at it like "just" a job otherwise that's all it'll be and that can be pretty dreary.
I love working alone...I also love working with a cpl of helpers if they're good people. If they're serious pains in the ####...I let them go...why should either of us be in the same place if one of us isn't happy?
Its all about attitude...simple as that.
Be well
avi dass : ) lol
If Blodgett says Tipi Tipi Tipi, it must be so!
The thing that gets you through.....is....not to try and get it through. Be there!
BE into it, because if you're not than you don't love what you're doing. Find something you do love before its too late.
Great advice Andy!
blue
Its all about attitude...simple as that.
I could be bound in a nutshell and count myself a king of infinite space?
jt8
"Take your life in your own hands, and what happens? A terrible thing: no one to blame." -- Erica Mann Jong
You may simply need a real good sit down with yourself. Give your self a real good honest talking to about where you are in your life right now and what you hope to get out of it.
Wow, it's like you're talking directly to me. I'm 46, an engineer. I make good money but I hate it and it's getting to me. I find myself sitting at my desk dreaming of being back on a job, framing, trimming, like I did, here and there, in college, mostly as a laborer. I shouldn't complain, but this just isn't cuttin' it. Before I go in the door when I get home from work I sometimes go in the garage and just stare at my tools for a minute.
I think I need to go to the fest and get right."With every mistake we must surely be learning"
Ya know what Mike...Maybe you "don't" hate what you're doing..maybe its just the way that you're doing it. Maybe. Sometimes we become a bit overly romantic and take things a bit to extremes. Sometimes not, but its worth thinking about. You know...that ol' sittin' down and give your self a good honest talking to I was talking about. Theres always more elements in what we do than what literally meets the eye. Sometimes we may just need to think outta the box a bit more...incorporate other things into what we've gotten good at. Maybe not. Maybe we do need to make big changes. Thing is...as I've told some of the guys that've worked for me in the past and wanted to do something different than construction because they thought for one reason or another that that's where the money was...doing something besides "construction". Construction sounded...well, like a construction worker? Not an engineer or marketing research exec or or or. I'd just have to remind them that they've gotten fairly good at what they've been working at all these years and maybe they should now take more control of the direction in that arena to further themselves. Or maybe not.
Its that honest sittin' yer self down to give yourself that talkin' to that makes all the difference in the world.
Look how many doctors and lawyers are unhappy even making the big money. Who knows? Only you do : )
You just sorta need to step above yourself...like an outsider looking in. Like looking into a "two way mirror". thing is...you just need to know which side is "really" facing you~~
And oh yeh...see you in August!If Blodgett says Tipi Tipi Tipi, it must be so!
Good advice.
What does "Tipi Tipi Tipi" mean anyway?"With every mistake we must surely be learning"
Look in the Breaktime Fests threads folder
TipiFest06If Blodgett says Tipi Tipi Tipi, it must be so!
Having read all the posts so far, I think I deal with a little different issues, or maybe just see them differently. This is one of those topics I vacillate between having nothing to say, or wanting to write a book on the subject! Meaning I have a lot going through my mind, but little that I could offer in the way of concrete advice or insights that would be of any practical use to anyone.
I do mainly work alone, although I've run crews, and enjoyed it thoroughly. But I enjoy working alone. Like others, I get into the "zone", and time just flys by. I enjoy the concentration, the challenge, the variety of this work. I enjoy solving problems and finding creative solutions to difficult problems. Probably what a lot of us enjoy about it. I love being creative. Its one aspect of my personality I've never been able to shut off.
I don't worry about the daily doldrums, they come and they go. But the bigger picture concerns me. Issues of optimism, self-confidence, self-esteem, believing in the value of what I offer to my fellow-man, frustration with a system that tries to reduce a human creative contribution to a lowest-dollar-denominator. I sometimes think we are a little bit artist, a little bit athlete, a little bit craftsman, a little bit salesman, a little bit businessman, and a little bit too spread out to be as effective at any one of the above as we'd (I'd) like!
Anyway, I'm learning that you have to get away from it once in awhile (something it has taken me years to learn, and I still struggle with). Like has been said here over and over, the jobs you don't take are as important (I actually think more important) as the one's you do. Not just financially, but emotionally and psychologically. The damage one truly PITA customer can wreak on your optimism, and on your joy in your work, is almost immeasurable!
Honestly, I've let a few bad customers get to me in the past, and I actually had to leave the field for a few years, before I could do it again. I know I was partly to blame, and I've learned a LOT from the posts of guys like Blue, Mike Smith, Jerald, Sonny, etc. Guys who have gotten a handle on the importance of not letting problematic customers erode your self-esteem, while slipping their fingers into your pocketbook. I'm still learning. That's one reason I come here almost every day.
When the whole momentum of your business rests on your enjoyment of your work, at what price could you afford to risk that?
"he...never charged nothing for his preaching, and it was worth it, too" - Mark Twain
Edited 2/24/2006 1:53 am by Huck
"When the whole momentum of your business rests on your enjoyment of your work, at what price could you afford to risk that?"
Hey Huck, could you explain what you meant by this question? Seems like it could be taken a number of ways. Thanks. TIPI,TIPI,TIPI!
"When the whole momentum of your business rests on your enjoyment of your work, at what price could you afford to risk that?"
You advertise because of your belief in your ability to make a profit while fulfilling a need of your customers. You bid work with the same belief. You have to enjoy what you do, thats what keeps you going. When you work alone, when you ARE the company, then your belief in your own ability to satisfy your customers while making an honest income is what keeps you going.
While some feel the need to capture every sales opportunity, I feel differently. Based on my own experience, which may be different from others, I find that one or two or several bad experiences, with particularly unethical/dishonest/unrealistic customers, undermines my desire to advertise, bid, and continue. At times, when dealing with a few ridiculously difficult customers, I didn't even want to answer my office phone when it rang. A few un-satisfyable customers made me doubt my ability to satisfy any future customers. I wanted to throw up my hands and say "forget it". Which I did, for a time.
I know that I was partly to blame. I was underbidding, overworking, and taking any and all jobs that came my way. I've learned that my positive view of my work, myself, my business, my ability to satisfy the needs of my customers at a realistic price, are fragile commodities, but vital to the future of my business. I can't afford to put those things at risk, just to "stay busy". So to me, walking away from a "red-flag" job is just as important as taking on projects to pay the bills.
I reactivated my Calif. Gen. Contractor's license a little less than a year ago. I'm 50 yrs. old, and this is far from my first time around the block. I've superintended, general contracted, etc., for years. Been licensed as a general since 1989. Started in the business as a union framing apprentice almost 30 yrs. ago. But I'm learning, from guys like Blue, Buck, Sonny, etc. I read a lot here, I listen with an open mind, I meditate. I think I'm starting to get it.
No, I don't avoid all problem customers. But I've learned to cut way down on the number. If I'm having more positive than negative experiences, my joy in my work continues. When it goes the other way, the whole thing takes a downward spiral, quickly. Maybe that's just me, but that's what I meant by my comment above, in quotes.
"he...never charged nothing for his preaching, and it was worth it, too" - Mark Twain
Edited 2/24/2006 10:34 am by Huck
Great Thread
Well said Huck .
Blue is a sage!
I to mostly work alone.I think I heard Walt Stepolworth say the most efficient crew was a crew of 1.It took a while for me to get that.I have worked in a lot of places with a lot of people.I began to notice years ago even when I worked for others I worked alone.I showed up for a new job in Anchorage on a house that was already half framed ,a 2 story.The Lead carpenter told me " go sheet the garage".I knew better than to say I can't do that alone.It was 2 stories,I just made up my mind I was going to figure out how to do it,and I did.
I guess I don't even think about being motivated.I have a job to do,and I am going to figure out the best way to get it done.
I have taken on some crazy projects alone,things that maybe I had no business
taking on.But I always figured out how to do it and how to do it right.Sometimes I don't know if motivation is the word.
When I take on a project I see a vision of what it is going to look like.I rarely have the Luxury of plans,I see the end result and shoot foe that.It is often mundane on the way there.Like crawling around in the attic pulling staples from the old insulation so you can abate it to get the smell of smoke out of the house etc.Mind you I am not saying I have figured out every detail at the begining.They just reveal themselves as you go along.
Like others have said they love a challenge ,I am constantly learning new things ,or a better more efficient way to do an old thing,or just trying to hone a skill .
Now making money that's another subject that I am still
needing to learn.I think If I get the business end in order I will enjoy what I do even more.
Well I hope some of my ramblings make sense.I have been lurking alot and I just want to add my 2 cents
Rick Sheehan
Excellent advice Huck.
It sounds like your positioning yourself for the final run to retirement.
blue
I also work alone - and a lot of the time, I hate it! My AM section of the radio died, so all I can get is FM. No talk radio, anyway. I enjoy the music.
I like having one person to work with, but the economy here is so nuts, that getting someone competent is nearly impossible, especially for someone on a budget like myself. The only time I would like to have more people is when I need to rehab a suite, and it must be done quickly.
Still, it seems that it's the only way I can do things.
Making lists would probably be better for me, and it's one of my downfalls that I am too lazy to do it. I'm realizing as I read this thread that if you set the objective, you can aim higher.
I never had the ambition to have a big crew, big payments and have to sell big jobs.
It's nice to see so many others out there working alone. We need to set up a "Single worker's club" here at FHB.
Quality repairs for your home.
AaronR Construction
Vancouver, Canada
"It's nice to see so many others out there working alone."
I wonder if this is a fact for most of the BT'ers? If you're working alone, like I do, you need a place to get help and so far, this is working out to be a great resource for me.
p....motivation........trying to keep your banker smiling.....:)
I'm a computer nerd, not a wood butcher, but one of the main reasons I've never considered branching out on my own vs working for The Man is that I have ADHD pretty bad. This means that there's (almost) always something more interesting than what I'm currently working on, and without some "structure" to keep me focused I'd never get anything done.
My brother (the other one), who has ADHD worse than mine, has bounced between salried jobs and being self-employed, and has this problem that nothing seems to get done through most of the day, until, about 10:30 PM, he gets motivated and ends up pulling an all-nighter.
My observation has been that many of you here have symptoms of an "ADHD tendency", though how many would meet the formal diagnostic criteria is hard to say. This isn't too surprising, since ADHD folks tend to prefer creative occupations.
I think it helps to be aware of this "tendency", even if you never seek a formal diagnosis and treatment. It helps you understand better why you're good at some things (creativity) and not good at others (organization, motivation).
A good book on the topic is "Driven to Distraction" by Hallowell and Ratey:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0684801280/sr=8-1/qid=1140802657/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-0197416-6248041?%5Fencoding=UTF8
happy?
I remember reading a book or listening to a business expert on the radio saying the only way to make a lot of money was to own a business and then make a profit from your employee's labor.The above rule may apply to other ventures but I don't think it applies to skilled trades occupations.I prefer working by myself in an empty house. About a year ago I literally had a woman in her 90's standing over the top of me watching my every move as I installed a laminate floor in her kitchen. She wanted someone to talk to be also wanted to keep her eye on me.My problem with working alone is that for me anyway the jobs take too long. Seems like two people get three times as much work done.With some jobs I've worked a week or two and yet can see little or no real progress. This can happen if you are remodeling a fixer upper home by yourself. My kids are in their late teens early 20's and I've tried hiring them but it really doesn't work for them or me. I'm too easy going and they kind of come and go as they please. Not a good way to run a business..++++++++++++++++
-Do the thing you fear and the death of fear is certain-
Dan,
you may possibly have done yourself a disservice thinking that way.
I am pretty clearly ADHD myself---as diagnosed by my schoolteacher wife.
I am absolutely un-fit to be working for the Man-----it's only through self employment that I can overcome and contribute.
Just no way I can work at the same location or at any one task for an extended period----say more than an hour.
I am a slow typest---and even particiapting here on this forum I will have to get up and walk about mid post.
I could rattle on and on about school difficulties etc.--------- But ADHD is no bar to self employment----- in point of fact self employment is a benefit---- because if you are remotely self aware of your tendencies----you can design the task and work pattern to benefit from that tendency.
for example---- carrying shingles up a ladder is a benefit to me----as it gives me a break from the repetitive nature of laying them--- that break coming at regular intervals-----and after humping a few bundles up the ladder I can refocus for another half hour or so. somebody without ADHD might design that shingle carrying OUT of the procedure----but for me it can be critical.
ADHD is EXTREMELY common in construction----almost universal in the lower skill levels.
successfully managing a crew---is often the ability to manage 4-5 ADHD workers( not exactly their fault) and also managing around the alcohol/chemical abuse that often goes hand in hand with adult ADHD( mostly,but not entirely their fault)
Stephen
I agree that some ADHDers can do well in self-employment. Just not me. I'm lucky enough to be in an occupation where I'm given a lot of independence and not required to do stuff that I'm no good at. (I have to give my immediate manager for the past 15 years or so a lot of credit for this -- I've never seen a better job done of getting the best out of every employee, working to all their strengths.)A big part of it is how you compensate. Some ADHDers "compensate" with drugs or alcohol, some by simply trying harder to do stuff they can't really do. The best way is to analyze your strengths and weaknesses and leverage your strengths to get around your weaknesses.In some cases this means jobbing out the stuff you can't or won't do (bookkeeping, taxes, painting, whatever). Often, even if you easily know HOW to do something, you never get around to it because it doesn't interest you. In other cases it simply means knowing to leave certain tasks for when you'll be in the mood for them, vs forcing yourself to do them according to some agenda. Or, as with your shingles, intermixing jobs so you avoid doing any one task to the pont of boredom. (This is partly why I'm here so often -- gives me a break, and I'm not really wasting time since I'm usually waiting for a compile or some such.)And, yes, in some cases it does mean forcing yourself to do something disagreeable, simply because you know you must. If you understand the situation you can worst case (lacking any other motivational trick) simply regard the task like a visit to the dentist -- something that is a necessary evil to simply be endured.
If ignorance is bliss why aren't more people
happy?
I've mentioned before in this thread that I teach, the classroom is self-contained. I teach all subjects and all of my students are severely ADHD. They are not incapable of accomplishment but it sure makes it difficult for them.
I managed sales people for years and the majority of them were ADHD, and almost always the top performers were, but they had trouble staying in the same profession or area for an extended period of time. They could perform at a high level for a long time, but they almost always wound up moving on.
Some (ADHD) can do well with medications but a lot cannot. Prisons are filled with ADHD people. So is acting, and probably every profession.
I'm curious.....can ADHD be diagnosed with some type of medical test? I mean like a cat scan, MRI, blood test, urine analysis, etc. etc.
No medical test. It is a combination of pscych tests and observations. One sympton is an almost total inability to remain still. The students I deal with are more extreme, often do not take their meds (I don't blame them here, some have pretty severe side effects), have great difficulty staying on task, maintaining relationships, etc.
My wife spent 27 years in the classroom, 16 in special education which gets the preponderence of ADHD. But some people who can control the extreme energy, and "hide out" during the down times, are very accomplished. She watched me mowing the yard one day, and told me I was ADHD. I blew it off of course. How can you dianose something just by watching me mow. She pointed out how I had roamed all over the place, breaking off to mow a new area that looked more interesting, then meandering back to rejoin the original spot. I always mowed this way. I always finished the whole yard unless I saw something else to go do during a break.
I look back over my career and see the times when I told someone to "shove it" and walked away with no thought to where I was going to get my next gig. I did pretty well in sales because I could use my energy and as a commission guy, the company did not have to pay unless I was productive. I feel bad about what she had to deal with, and thankfully I have calmed down enough to stay focused and hopefully make up for some of my jerkiness.
I love this place! some great responses on this thread and very well spoken. I'm convinced that Andy, Huck, and some others here should write books. It is great advice, like a free therapy session so here goes mine. I am a remodeler and I mainly work alone. But sometimes enjoy company, and the challenges of juggling subs and whatching it all come together.(or not) But I usually like to work alone because all the accountability is mine and there is no one else to point a finger at in the end.I always start a project with great enthusiasm. From the design and ideas that pop up once you get into it, all the way to the final coat of paint. But for whatever reason when I get to the punch list stuff It sucks the life out of me. Doldrums is a word I have never heard, so I looked it up and It completely sums it up. Maybe It is because the challenge is gone I'm not sure. Personally I feel that ADHD is a condition that is thrown around way too loosely. I think most of us just like to be challenged and inspired.
You guys (& gals -- I don't mean to be sexist) seem to getting at the heart of the matter. I don't think i have ADHD or anything, but what I've discovered about making the lists is that if I have a generous list of tasks to accomplish, I can pick the ones I know I will enjoy that day. Each day is different, and I could arrange some of the tasks I don't really usually like much for those days when I either have a lot of ambition, or where I'm a bit hungover or tired, say, so the quiet challenge of something that might not otherwise be my favorite is the perfect tonic.
On the "punch list-itis," on some jobs I get a little bit of that. Strange part is it's on the more challenging jobs. I think it kicks in where I get a bit too proud about having done the "tough part" so then I don't feel super motivated to finish up the details. My way out of it is just looking at the job and how good it could really be if I just did this and this and this and . . . .
I remember one kitchen remodel that involved a lot of new wiring and some creative plumbing (was on slab, radiator had to be moved and some of the hydronic piping "over here" had to go "over there" through the walls). After I finished the remodel and faired the walls so no one could ever tell I had made swiss cheese out of some of them, I stepped back and admired a job well done. The HO then asked if I planned on repainting the walls. I honestly didn't even see the lack of paint -- I saw nice smooth walls and a kitchen job well done. Guess the moral of the story is, it is all those details that really make a good job so can't lose sight of them.
But for whatever reason when I get to the punch list stuff It sucks the life out of me.
This is actually a very easy problem to solve PH882.
Dont leave any item that would go on a punch list. Finish each phase completly, leaving no loose ends. It works for me out there in framing land. When I see guys leaving loose ends and jumping enthusiastically into a new phase, I grab them by their ears and haul them back and make them finish. It's a very effective method for eliminating punchlists.
blue
That is probably true, But because I usually do 90% of the work myself I think It would be optimistic to avoid any punch list, but I'm sure I could reduce It's length. So would It be your advice to ( a hypothetical ) let's say you are doing the door casing and a piece gets away from you and gouges the drywall. Would you stop trimming for the moment and address my future punchlist Item? Maybe that makes sense because If my punchlist was shorter at the end of a job, so would the amount of time I have to feel like a zombie. Thanks, Paul
You pose a good question PH882.
I think I would do the repair on the drywall, if I knew a punchlist would aggravate me. I've learned to sacrifice some efficiencies on the job to preserve my sanity. This might very well fall into that category.
Another alternative might be to do a daily mini punchlist. That means that I'd leave that drywall repair till tomorrow. When tomorrow came, I'd clean up all the things on the list before I started my production. That would give me time to get the proper things to do the job and not break my production run for the day.
blue
For me, It depends on the customer...with some, I know it will take less time to drop what I'm doing and touch up the drywall, than it will to explain that "I'll be fixing that later"...which turns into a 30 min. discussion about all the other little punch list items.The cool customers just trust that you will get it all...no worries.
I do most of my work solo ...
each and every day ... my kid wakes up ... he's hungry.
almost like he wants to eat every day?
that pretty much get's me outta bed in the morning.
don't get paid unless I build something ... so I build something.
Jeff
Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
I too am ADHD combined with some obsessive compulsive behaviour. Makes me hate the rest of humanity lol.
I had a conversation with another contractor a couple of months ago and one of the things we agreed on is maturity helps you in the respect that you start to realize that you need to work on what you are good at. Not what you are not.
When you are young you (at least he and I) seem to want to be it all, do it all. Most of us are told as children we can be anything which is BS. But with that in mind we take on tasks, professions, jobs, families, sports, hobbies that we are simply ill suited for. I played golf for a while. I play pretty well till the course fills up and then I have to wait. Then my game goes to pieces. Obviously not my sport.
As you grow older you start to realize that you can hire the tasks you are poor at or don't wish to do and work at the things you are efficient at or good at and get more out of it. I have had an accountant since I went into business. Not because I needed one early on but I can't stand to deal with those areas. So I simply never have. I focus on the business of making money and he focuses on keeping the government happy and the numbers straight. I understand my numbers and am good at comparing them etc. I just don't deal well with them on a day to day business.
I simply think as you get older and wiser that you deal with things better and the things you don't deal with better you find ways around. Where before you would force yourself. And as we mellow with age we find more enjoyement in terms of family and friends and realize that physical assets are only of value here. As they say you can't take it with you. I am working on that. If I can just find a way I am going to sell it and take more with me! DanT
"Most of us are told as children we can be anything which is BS. "
like I tell the kid ... "if the teachers says Yer Special ... then tells everyone else in class they're special too ... it ain't so special anymore ..."
someday he'll know what I'm talking about.
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
Actually, if you're in a class with a bunch of other "special" kids, you probably are too.
If ignorance is bliss why aren't more people
happy?
only if the short bus stops at yer houseIf Blodgett says Tipi Tipi Tipi, it must be so!
and ...
U wear hockey equip ... but U aren't on the team.
who was that commedian chick? She was funny ...
crude ... but funny.
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
like I tell the kid ... "if the teachers says Yer Special ... then tells everyone else in class they're special too ... it ain't so special anymore ..."
Actually, you have a very cynical view. Being cynical is special too.
Every person is special in their own way. You are impressing a cynical view of life on your kid just because the teachers look for ways that kids are special, then compliment them on it.
Tsk, Tsk.
blue
it's a tough world out there ...
better he learns that at home!
I also chirp in ... from when the wife used to say "U are the cutest baby in the world" ... that ... "Yeah ... yer cute ... but just remember ... there's a kid in Japan that's already figured out how to be cuter!"
kinda brings me back to growing up ... I got straight A's ... honor roll ... GATE program ... and my Dad would say ... "hey Genius, take out the garbage ..."
kinda puts things in prospective?
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
Jeff,
It only gets worse. My oldest is 17. He's got a job now but he would have to work 700 hours a week to be able to buy just his own food and clothes.
And whats with that eating thing anyway? How can they eat seven meals a day and still have like 9% body fat?
The two year old eats a whole pack of kids yogurt every day.
When do these things go away so I can get a Corvette?
I have not read this thread. It may have deteriorated to talks about Star Wars.
My response is to the original post:
What do you other solos do to stay focused day to day?
Start doing something related to your business, but does not require you go to the job, and is relatively inexpensive.
For example:
Get ideas for a creative marketing campaign for more work or better work.
No website? Thinking about and doing a rough draft for a website. Take some pics and write some text.
Designing or redesigning your own shop in ways that cooperate with your current business and could make it better.
Doing thought and research on what tools and equipment will help you in the future.
Do research and development on product(s) you could build in your shop (or future shop) that could be marketed.
For example, we obtained some old free stained glass windows from a demoed Church. There is a variety, but most are 3'0" x 5'0" double hung wood windows with a stained glass border of 4" x 8" rectangles around a central piece of glass. We use the individual sashes, take ouy the glass, refinish or paint the wood, sometimes add an intergal and simple perimeter frame and install a mirror in place of the glass. We tried a few, they look great hanging inside a home and they sell for $250.00 - $350.00. We are thinking of adding a flower box to the bottom of some.
Look into buying real estate / flip homes or rental property. Look for some land.
Ect, ect, ect.
I realize actually doing some or all of these things would require money, but the research, development, design, thought, etc. is cheap. Lenghten the cords of your tent, get a vision of your future (even if you do not have the money) and work on the affordable practical elements needed to make life better.
You then go to work and what you are doing day to day is not just that , but a part of a bigger pciture and cooperates with your future. It can be exciting and cause you to press on beyond the day to day.
All this is based on a proverb "without a vision, people perish".
Edited 2/25/2006 10:48 am ET by txlandlord