Bob, Great post. We are in our second year and you are right about living hand-to-mouth and borrowing from Peter to pay Paul and back again. I don't think I sleep more than 2 hours before I wake up in horror on what bill to pay next!
But it is great to work for yourself! Yes, I am putting in 60-80+ hours a week but just like you, I can see and feel that burning desire to make it succeed, mainly to help the pond owners out there that need the help to obtain their dreams.
Kevin, I used to work at Sea World of FL. I topped out at $7/hr because there were so many biologist that wanted to "work with Shamu". I left there and joined the US Coast Guard and worked directly under our Marine Science Tech. in Alaska.
When I got my discharge, I stayed in the biology field and worked for company in FL. maintaining lakes and ponds for invasive aquatic weeds, (15 years). For reasons I am unable to elaborate on, (review Bob's post and you get an idea) I was forced into starting my own company doing what I loved and did in Florida.
If I had just done that when I got out of the Coast Guard, I would like to think that I would be where Bob is now.
I would say if Biology is your love and calling, go to school for it. Once you are out, carve your niche and make a market for yourself. It will be difficult to start but once you realize that you are helping not only the environment with your "NEW AND UPCOMMING IDEAS" but you will be helping your fellow man as well, you will succeed!
Sepmer Peratus, Go Coast Guard!
