Over the past few days, I've been learning one lesson hard: Being creatively self-employed isn't so glamorous. In fact, you can be just as miserable in this job as any other. Why?

Because even though you're your own boss, there is still the hand that feeds you. An editor. A gallery owner. Someone there to oversee you and critique you. But again, compared to other corporate jobs where you perform a mundane function, this seems to hit home more during times of criticism because creatives manufacture the product ourselves.

Lately, I'm getting nailed on one of my "products." The comments have been brash and the reactions (not on my part) have been unprofessional. It amazes me how people get to where they are when they are rude and blame others for their mistakes.

But it's part of it. Any job. You have jerks and you have fabulous co-workers. And while we can pick and choose our projects, sometimes you have to deal with the hand that feeds you and slaps you across the face at the same time.

I'm just happy I know not to hit back. And the clients are fortunate in that respect!