It seems like you're getting both sides of the story. This is very good info. Remember like in any business the top 20 make 80% of the money and the rest struggle to keep up. Before you leap figure out your living expenses for the next six months and have that in the bank. Don't include your present income. Business fail every day but new ideas are also born everyday. If it was a gauranteed success everybody would be doing it.

You have to plan ahead. Look into renting an office. When looking for an office remember location - location - location. Like in any business you have to "Dress for Success" an impressive office in a prestigiuos area gives the potential customer the impression you know what your doing. Most times you will meet with clients at their location to learn their business but many times they will come to you. Getting up every morning and going to nice office gives you a professional attitude. Working a business from home were you grab a cup of coffee and sit in your PJ's at a computer doesn't work well for your your attitude. Most often there are way to many distractions. I remember doing just that like everyone else. Once I was on the phone with a potential customer sitting at my desk in my home office when the neighbor walked by the window cutting his grass. Or the times when the neighbors dog keeps barking during your phone calls.

I have a nice location for my office in a busy plaza. We stay open till 8PM a few evenings a week to make it easy for clients. Last thursday a young gentleman called trying to sell his services claiming he could get me top positions in the search engines. About a minute into the phone call his baby started crying.

You have to know what you want - the go out and get it. Always take time to update your own website keep it fresh and dynamic.

Be prepared to hire in help once things get rolling and be prepared for taxes - taxes - taxes. Don't get discouraged just get out there and get what you want.

One comment was beware of the bad customers. There are no bad customers. If you take the time to learn the customers needs, his business and his potential customers you will succeed.

Once a month (minimum) tweek the customers site then call him and tell him what he thinks of the changes. This keeps you in front of him and let's him know that you are working for him and not just collecting a check every month.

Like everything else in life you have to plan for success and go for it. Those that don't succeed or have negative outlooks usually didn't plan to succeed. If you have the time take a few business management classes. Someday you will have to run a business with many employees. I get frustrated because I spend more time managing (putting out fires) than I do programing (which I would rather do). The money is there but sometimes I spend way to much time running things than doing what I love.

What I am saying is either plan to stay small and earn some extra cash on the side or get ready for the leap and go for it!