Q: For the past couple of years I've been freelancing, more or less by choice. But lately I've been losing my enthusiasm for it, especially having to find business. How can I put the spark back in?
Franni, 44, business consultant
A: Now may be the time to take stock of your options and consider your vision for the next phase of your career.
Let's face it; your tone doesn't exactly ooze enthusiasm for your current situation. In order to figure out if it still works for you, do a brief retrospective on how you ended up a freelancer. Many people land there after a downsizing or as a result of some level of dissatisfaction or problem at work.
For others, it can be a handy solution to a desire for more flexibility.
The problem is that often, if you are going away from an unsuitable situation, you are not making an active choice toward something.
Next, reflect on aspects of your current professional life that you particularly like and those you don't care for.
Also think about what's missing. Don't worry about what you think you "should" like; be as honest as you can. This is your chance to understand what you would like to change in your work life.