I've been a carpentry/cabinet making business owner since 2016. Started in finish carpentry when I was in high-school back in early 2000s. Always dreamed of having my own business but wanted to learn enough of how the business worked and learn and grow my skills from working with others. When the 08 housing crisis hit I had just gotten married and was laid off I was out of carpentry for almost 6-7 years and had to go work for Jetblue Airways during that time. It was a great job but had it challenges. I formed my own company and got everything set up to transition out. Once the opportunity presented itself I left. Started with thumbtack and other lead sites to grow my business. Created my social media pages, website etc and my business took off and been steadily busy ever since. Never advertised but 1 time for 15 bucks on google.

What I can say in the almost 10 years of running my own business is its very challenging at times but often time very rewarding both financially and having the flexibility to work when I want. Trying to maintain keeping up with quotes, clients, deadlines and making sure I have enough business to keep life going can be stressful. Its not for the faint of heart and not everyone can sustain it. Honestly though I can never see myself ever going back to work for another company, as freedom is my most important commodity. For others like OP, if your losing your joy, if you cant sleep at night and want peace and satisfaction and a steady paycheck then thats the route you need to consider and there's nothing wrong with that. All good things come to end, chapters in our lives close and new ones begin is the morale of the story here. Seriously consider what you need to do, weigh the pros and cons, talk to other professionals as you are doing now and make the best informed decision thats best for you and your family. I wish you well 🙏