If you are a person whose independent spirit leads you to think about self-employment each time your supervisor says or does something foolish, you are not alone. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, 9.6 million Americans were self-employed in 2016, and this figure is expected to increase by 7.9 percent by 2026. Self-employment does not always entail entrepreneurship; in many cases, individuals make the transition from salaried employment to freelancers based on their strengths, skills, and interests. Here are four careers that will not only let you be your own boss, but may also be quite lucrative: 

Career Freedom as a Freelance Writer 
Contrary to what many people think, not all writers struggle to become published authors whose books are listed on The New York Times Best Seller List. Many freelance writers make a daily living as authors who conduct research on behalf of clients who need articles written on specific topics; others go on to specialize as technical writers, columnist, fact-checkers, copywriters, and editors. 

A Reassuring Future as an Insurance Broker 
In essence, insurance brokers are intermediaries appointed by insurance companies to offer their products and provide certain services to clients. In the U.S., brokers can choose between quite a few lines of insurance; for example, if your personal interests include the world of business, selling commercial insurance products may be a good fit. Another advantage about the insurance broker profession is that you can always count on a reliable insurance network to help you with your clients. 

Helping Others as a Financial Advisor 
The BLS estimates that the financial advisor profession will expand by 15 percent by the year 2026, thus making it one of the career fields with greater opportunities for financial success. This is a dynamic and competitive career that can not only be very profitable, but also rewarding, since you are helping clients reach their financial goals. 

Feeling at Home as a Real Estate Agent 
All homeowners are prospective investors, and real estate agents are the professionals who help them transition from prospects to fully realized investors who keep the American economy growing. Real estate professionals have a long history of working independently and turning their own dreams into reality. While it is true that real estate is highly cyclical, the best agents routinely make it through downturns unscathed. 

In the end, choosing the path of self-employment can be one of the most rewarding career moves you can make in your life. When you are ready to stop working at the behest of your supervisor, be sure to do some research about the professions listed herein.