>Don't forget the time you spend selling (& finding gigs), and chasing after some of them to collect.

Right. IMO this biz requires the self-discipline to do the marketing for the next gig even while you're working on the current one. Otherwise you turn around after depositing the final check from the current client and realize that it's like "OK, now what?".

I guess I've been fortunate in regards to collection: I've never had a serious delinquent payment problem with any client. A couple that I've needed to send reminders to from time to time, but that's about it. Let's hope it stays that way!