staying current
Programs are constantly changing, new tools, effects and better programming all done to help the designer. Fall behind and lose your edge. I started out in Photoshop 5.5, taught college students in version 7 and kept up with all the releases shortly after they come available.
Taking new opportunities and expanding my knowledge I moved out of Florida to Georgia to pursue a job in the IT field. Learning SQL and other server applications has helped me better utilize server applications.
To stay current in graphic and web design I kept up with freelancing and with a little bit of effort created an LLC so I could provide the printing service as well, however, working for a firm is what I envision.