I funneled my writing passion into a freelance career and can fully relate to what you're saying, Tim. I'm on a similar trajectory from corporate drudgery to creative entrepreneurship.

One thing that's taken me by suprise is my attention to customer service. I think that true customer service begins when you take on risk and responsibility. This open and honest relationship between buyer and seller, reader and writer, is something that can't be replicated in a 9-5 flex desk cubicle. The more boxed in and smothered the employee feels, the less they'll do for the end customer. It's give and take.