Working as an independent contractor can be better than working as an employee. You are your own boss, for the most part, and you have more control over your time and work. It's tough sometimes though, and you should know what to expect so that you don't start with false notions.

1. Takes Time to Build a Steady Income

When you work for someone as an employee, you exchange your labor for a steady paycheck. You can count on it being deposited into your bank account or delivered to your desk by your employer. You can breathe easy knowing that you'll at least get paid for the time you've worked so far. This is not so when working as an independent contractor. It takes at least three months to make money on a consistent basis, and sometimes six months to a year. It's tough living on savings, trying to earn additional money, selling things or doing whatever you have to do to make ends meet. You can overcome it with proper financial planning and good advice on how to do well as an independent contractor in your industry.

2. You're Always Busy

Your duties as a wife and/or mother come first, and these demand your full time and dedication. Add to that working as an independent contractor, and you'll soon find out that you're always on the go, even if you seldom leave your home. It can be tough on friends, extended family and others who want more of your time. It can take its toll on you, too, because you're often exhausted and have little free time. Despite this, you will learn to be grateful for the opportunity to work from home as an independent contractor. It gives you the money you need to add to your household economy, or to provide for it solely.

3. Limited Payment

Some of the companies you work for will only pay you once a month, or will pay you 30 days after your completed services. If you're not good at handling your finances, working as an independent contractor on this payment term will be rough going. Some moms make the mistake of taking the pile of cash they earned last month and spending it all up in two weeks. They're stressed out for the remaining two weeks, because they have to pay for unexpected bills, or need to pay for regular items like food. They resort to credit card debt to pay for the shortfall, and dig a financial pit for themselves. You don't have to fall into that trap. Only choose jobs that pay more frequently or pay half up front, or learn how to manage your money wisely.

4. No Collaboration

You might need someone to review your work before submitting it, but there's less opportunity for that when working as an independent contractor. It also helps on occasion to collaborate with others on a project. You can pay consultants and other independent contractors to assist you, but that's not always affordable. Build a few contacts early on of like-minded independent contractors in your industry who would be willing to collaborate or review your work on a bartering, free or low cost basis.

Working as an independent contractor is liberating, despite the challenges. Don't give up on working from home.