“I wanted freedom from the 9–5, to be able to live in exotic locations while still working.”

What was your role in your old job?

Manage corporate websites

What is/are your new role(s)?

Publishing my own websites and travel writing

Why did you change?

Wanted freedom from 9-5 and to be able to live in exotic locations while still working. I long had a dream of sitting by a beach with a laptop and a cocktail!

Are you happy with the change?

Very. I am so glad I took that first small step and I thank my ex-employer for making me redundant!

What do you miss and what don't you miss?

I miss interaction with people, thats about it really. I used to miss the money but I earn more now than I did working in the corporate World. I don't miss commuting, having to give up so much of my life to work, living for the weekend and four week holidays.

How did you go about making the change?

I started a website www.workingnomad.com as a hobby and when I started making a modest sum, around £500 a month I decided to leave the UK and live in cheaper places such as Southeast Asia where the money goes a lot further. I never severed my links with the UK and have always based the business here, even when I am overseas.

What was the most difficult thing about changing?

Motivation to work for yourself, particularly as the amount of work I do does not always mean more or less money.

What help did you get?

One website helped me, webmasterworld.com, but on the site you have hundreds of experts happy to help.

What have you learnt in the process?

That alternative lifestyles can be as lucrative as working for big companies.

What do you wish you'd done differently?

Maybe started a year or two early. Can't think of anything else!

What would you advise others to do in the same situation?

I think internet based businesses are great because they are suitable for pretty much anyone. Very good for people that are house bound or those who have wanderlust and want to travel the world. My advice is to look for a small niche area that you can become an expert at and follow your dreams. Life is too short to be stuck in an office.

What lessons could you take from the story to use in your own career change? Let us know in the comments below.