"The point for me is that even as an employee, I have always been self-employed."
Yes! Yes! Right there in a nutshell!
Mike Rowe (Dirty Jobs) said that you don't have to "do what you love" and follow your passion to be happy, but you should take your passion with you in whatever job you do.
Using a lot more words!
I've been on both sides - employee and business owner with employees. Different responsibilities (and opportunities) for each, but it really boils down to what you said here.
I don't even remember where I heard this but...
"If you feel bored with something, give it more attention and it will become the most interesting thing in the world!"
I'm not sure about the most interesting thing in the world, but it sure has helped me get some focus and enjoy whatever I am doing more.
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