Ruth
We have had some similarities in our paths (but you're a lot smarter than me...), and your points are solid and nicely expressed.
I have been in the same situation over the last year, and I just [sort of] went the same direction. I took a part-time/permanent position with my biggest and best client. It was a blessing as they had decided to slash budgets for the work I was doing for them. I can still pursue my own projects, so it's hopefully a win-win.
I have been and will continue to be a fan of your work and writing.
Best of luck with squarespace!
I have to admit, many of your points really hit home for me. Maybe I should be looking towards being hired on by a company.
Good luck with Squarespace. They are definitely attracting some attention, and now some great talent.
Hey Jonathan,
Thank you for your frank and honest post. Like several others who have already commented, some of the things you mention also ring true for me.
A year ago, I took on more of a line management role in the organisation that I work for and when you're a designer and have to focus more on the management aspects of the job, you feel like you are losing a part of why you went into a design career. I like to still be hands on with the design work and it was difficult having to step back from that and being more of a manager.
I'm also now moving to a new organisation, where I will be able to get back to the design work.
Congratulations on your new job and I hope it makes you feel much happier in your life.
Good luck Jon, Squarespace looks like a great company to work for, I especially like that live section.
Thanks for the RescueTime mention-- glad it helped!
FWIW, I was a freelancer-turned-consultancy-owner (doing web design and app development) for 7 years before starting RescueTime and I have no regrets leaving the world of billable hours behind.
I hope the transition is as sweet for you as it was for me.
Awesome news and congrats, man.
I've been keeping my eye on Squarespace and what they offer is impressive to say the least. They are lucky to have you now. :)
This is great news man, you'll love it at Squarespace.
I've known Anthony for many years and he's a real solid guy and has built something from scratch. Definitely not just a business guy or just a developer, but someone who can see both sides and is really smart overall.
Very interesting read, and an opportunity too good to miss, indeed. Good luck, John!
Awesome. Congrats! Outside of full freelane and independance that is exactly what I would want. The ability to focus, fine tune and perfect a single product / website / brand.
Good luck!
You're very fortunate to have the opportunity to make a choice like that! So many people are having trouble finding employment! Obviously, your talents are in demand!
Congratulations and I'm a user of Squarespace (love it). Nice to see your name with the team. Good luck with the new gig and hope to see you around in the developers community.
This is funny, people are changing their roles. It is like big circle. I dona€?t want to work now for any organization, because more interesting are priorities and opportunities of freelancing. You are going for something different, after you have got to know a lot what was interesting for you as freelancer.
Best luck.
An opportunity too good to miss, congratulations and good luck.