For a long time I’ve felt that I needed a change. I’ve felt that my work was taking me away from family too much. Recently the feeling finally built to the level where I had to act on it.

So, I’ve jumped into a fairly major career change. No, I didn’t audition for Australian Idol. I’ve started (or more properly reinstated) my own business.

Why so different? Well, the business is in retail trade, as a mobile pet supply store. Yep, Amanda and I have leased an existing mobile dog shop that travels to dog shows and sells to dog show exhibitors. We sell leads, collars, crates, shampoos & conditioners, supplements, treats, dryers, clippers, etc, etc.

While it’s a huge change of direction from programming and we have next to no experience in retail sales, so far it’s proven relatively easy. Don’t get me wrong, we’re putting in much longer hours that my previous (winding up) job, but when you’re with family it doesn’t feel so much like work. And unlike some sales jobs, once we’re set up at a show we just wait for customers to come to us.

I’ll still be doing IT work on a contract basis, but it will no longer take me away from my family. Here’s hoping all goes well and I’m still in business in five years.