Sorry to hear all of this happen to you. To answer your question, I think the culture has changed. It seems what you’ve experienced reflects today’s society. I don’t understand it either. When I decided to open my handyman business, it seemed like most of my family responded negatively. Instead, in their minds it was like you should work for some big company to collect a paycheck and benefits when my job’s paycheck was barely enough with no way of getting more hours and a crap benefits package which didn’t even include retirement. In my mind I thought, 1) how do you think those big businesses started and 2) I know those things need to be factored in so why not take some control over that and start my own. I was amazed at how many people were against entrepreneurship and I think it reflects the shift from the US being a country of producers to being a country of consumers.
I agree completely with you Tim! I don't understand why people treat trade businesses as if they are the plague!! Being a handyman and owning a handyman business is a very admirable thing if you ask me! Neither of my kids went to college. Why? Because their hearts weren't in it that's why!! My son works for an HVAC company and my daughter is the head of a Redwing Boot store! They wanted to work in trade-related jobs. They didn't become doctors and lawyers and they didn't go to Ivy League colleges but they are successful and happy. I raised my kids in my chimney business. My daughter can sling mortar with the best of them and can install a liner if the need ever arises for her! Our son took plumbing and HVAC in high school, yes Maine schools provide those classes believe it or not. College and white-collar jobs are not for everyone and they are not a guarantee of success either! Keep doing what you do best because that is where you will be the most successful. By the way, try being a female in the trades! UGG! I get all sorts of sexist remarks about not belonging in my chosen career!! Oh, and ignore the ney sayers. They are probably jealous that they don't have your talents! Big hugs!
