I always see these contractors that owe me money and say they don't have it right now on facebook posting pictures of themselves on vacation or with new toys.
Yes, that bit sucks when you see it.
I have been in a similar boat to many of you guys. I left paid employment 2006 to start up on my own as an Electrical Contractor. It went well for a few years but then the ability to balance chasing money, keeping the Taxman happy and completing jobs takes over, and the fun in life starts to fade away.
I started this one job for a guy over 8 years ago, and it is still not finished - not my fault. He is doing his own house renovation, and a serious rebuild at the same time while living in the house. I thought it might take 18 months....boy was I wrong. Four years ago, I said F*** it, and accepted an offer by my supplier to run the branch I was buying from. Worked out alright for 2 years, and then it went bad - back-stabbed to hell by the two guys under me as well as the newly reinstated previous manger who I had helped getting work soon after returning from Australia on his 'working holiday'. I will never trust people again like that. I then took up with a former employer again (for the 3rd time), and stayed with them until just 3 months ago....too many Limies working there now - ******** to work with. I now work for another Contractor who treats his guys well, pays fair and always on time, and welcomes any and all suggestions at work. Now the Taxman is off my back, I can start to relax.
The only issue I have now is this farkin' house renovatio dragging on still. I should tell the guy to get someone else, except I am so far into the job, and it is nearly complete, it's harder to walk away. Basically doing it for the satisfaction....not the money.
I don't mind helping close friends and family, but they have all been told lately that I have my own stuff to sort out, and they are leaving me alone. My sister generously offered her husband to come and help me do my fences and digging etc.....and my father has pitched in tho help out also. And in return I have done things to help them out. I don't think you could ever say you have done enough to repay your own parents, even if you had a rough up-bringing. We were working hard on the farm as kids, but we always had shoes, clothes and the best of food - how many kids can say they were sick of lamb chops, eye fillet steak and crayfish (lobster) by the age of 15?
To get back on topic, I have pretty much been turning down any work outside my regular job, as it really does cut into my time. I have hardly put any miles on my GTX in the last 5 years....that has to change soon.
