[jameslk]

Start with contracting instead of getting a job. A contract will give you more flexibility to work on side projects since you have control over where and when you work while also providing cash flow. It will also teach you important skills on creating and running a business. If you can't sell yourself as a contractor, you will have a hard time selling your product.

Once you have cash flow, start with trying to sell your idea before you build it. If anyone wants your idea, hire others to help you build it and sell it. Your contract cash flow will allow you to trade your time for other's who will have skills you don't have.

[driven20]

Any tips on contracting? I have only got contracts through recruiters. Can you get them directly with the company?

[jameslk]

Big companies that work with recruiters (staffing agencies) are usually just trying to hire contractors to fill a short term need. You need to create your own staffing agency if you want to compete on this.

Otherwise focus on a niche and build a brand that isn't based on your own name. That way other companies aren't assuming when they work with you they will only work with you. 1-to-1 interactions make scaling very difficult. If you've already done that, then it's time learn how to find your customers, understand their problems and how to solve them, market to them and sell. This is much easier when you focus on a niche rather than being a generalist programmer that can do anything.

Since this is an old comment, it's probably not worth going into the details here. If you're seriously interested, I'd be happy to help answer questions from my experience. Feel free to find my contact info from the website in my profile and reach out.