Only you can decide whether it makes sense for you to be a consultant. Most people are attracted by the notion that it will give them a more flexible lifestyle. While that is true, because only you are the boss of you, it does not necessarily mean you will work any less. The big difference will be, when you want to take a long weekend after burning the midnight oil for seven consecutive days to meet a client deadline, you only need to look in the mirror to say, “I'll be back on Tuesday.”

Some questions to ask yourself when mulling over a decision whether to take the leap to consulting are:

• Can you get yourself motivated to seek work?

• Do you like working independently?

• Are you comfortable with peaks and valleys of income and assignments?

• Do you have contacts that will lead to assignments?

• Can you present yourself in a confident manner?

• Can you look someone in the eye and ask for the money you are worth to do the job?

• How much are you willing to travel if needed?

• How will your choice affect your family?

• Do you think you want to do this long term?

• Is this just a way to bridge to the next job?

As a consultant, you are hired to help in a certain area. You come in, work your magic, and are immune to any petty office politics. If you are very clever, you will gain the confidence of the client and will be asked back to help with further enhancements of their operation. Actors get applause, and consultants get contracts that validate their talent and expertise. Your ego should be pumped up a notch or two when an organization hires you to take them to another level that they do not believe they could reach without you.