I'm Novell Certified, been working with IT/Internet for 20+ years, no 4 year degree. Single mom. I had a corporate job, but was told that I was never going to get a raise or promotion because I didn't have a degree. I started my 1st biz in 1999, made afew hundred dollars, no marketing or ads just word of mouth -pretty good I thought. Worked part-time. The I started my 2nd biz, my service: graphic design, again I got a few clients, but then came vistaprint. 3rd biz: Startup Consultant, help entrepreneurs legally form a biz and start Internet marketing, but startups don't pay, lost 9,000 in sales that year. Then last year roof caved in home office 7 years of business equity incl. comuters laptops, printers, phones, supplies and furniture - ruined -gone. Dissolved Company. Now on 4th biz, LLC, no clients, have a brand me, mia, Dot Com Diva +9 dotcoms!, +biz cards, Internet/office at p/t job, no money , no hardware no software no Internet at home. Should I give up?

Never give up.

I do not think that you should give up. The fact that you were able to bounce back so many times and become successful once again shows that you have the drive and determination that it takes. I would highly recommend that you get some type of insurance for your belongings in case of any damaged property from an accidental incident. The reason that you are having a difficult time right now is not a reflection on you. The economy is hurting right now and businesses are filing bankruptcy left and right and people just aren't investing and spending money like they used to. Just remain positive and I'm sure that things will pick up again in the near future. Good luck!

I would say take a break instead...not give up...never give up... try to teach non-credit classes at community college... network yourself and look at complimentary positons horizontal careers..... consider applying to information tech jobs that don't require a degree, they are out there..... consider webmaster jobs good luck....take a break and then put your fine asss back on the market...

I know you're feeling discouraged. Just try to think of it as all of the experience you are gaining. These are not failures. If you truly want to be self-employed, keep trying! You can make it work if you really want it!

you're a badass!!! Why would you ever think about giving up? You seem like you just didn't plan carefully enough, and your business ventures weren't right for you. I think if you do some careful planning and get the right people around you, you'll do awesome. You seem business savvy...