Opportunities will always come and go; remaining receptive and grounded in our fundamental goals and beliefs are what allow us to find fulfillment when they do arrive.

Yes, there may be times self-employed individuals have the opportunity to take on contract work which implies meeting other people's requirements and expectations. However, we don't have to accept every opportunity that comes our way if it doesn't align with personal goals.

I'm not dismissing the fact skills and knowledge obtained through education are beneficial, though they aren't limited solely to a post-secondary education. Often, intrinsic motivation is far more powerful and effective when you define and set unique goals and responsibilities.