So, you've decided to make more time for the important things in life.  Congratulations.  That was the easy part.  Now you have to make sure your new way of doing business won't put you out of business.  Here are some tips that may make the transition easier.

1.  Capitalize on unique skills.  Whether you have rare security clearances or are the only remaining Clipper programmer in your area, your skills are valuable to someone.  Promote your singular talents to a wide range of potential clients and agencies, accepting the fact that you'll get a lot of rejections.  Those who need you should be more flexible in their contract terms.

2.  Time the disclosure of your requirements.  Demands (or even timid requests) for special treatment made in your cover letter or marketing call will backfire.  You probably won't get an interview.  The latter stage of a promising interview -- when you've almost certainly got the contract -- is the time to bring up the special way you'd like to structure the contract.  Be sure to get all promises in writing.  If necessary, draft you own memo of understanding for the client's signature.  And remember that even "standard" agency contracts are negotiable.

3.  Convince your clients and agencies that facetime isn't as important as getting the job done.  "With programming, we all know it's possible to type away and look productive, ut not accomplish anything," says Mike Mohrbacher, an independent contractor.  Changing that attitude is a matter of establishing trust with clients and gradually broaching the idea of working off-site, while remaining available by beeper or cell phone for immediate contact and consultation.

4.  Disabuse clients of unrealistic expectations up front: be a consultant.  If you agree to a contract that requires too much work in too short a time, any idealistic notions you have about working less are out the window before you begin.  "If it has to be up October 1 and it's now September 2 with four months work involved, I'll just [tell the client], 'You're nuts,'" says Mohrbacher.  They're buying your expertise, not just your body.  But commit to crashing on a project when necessary, and let the client know you keep your promises, no matter what.

5.  Learn to say "no" -- and mean it.  "It doesn't hurt to say no to an assignment, as long as I know the contractor's restrictions," says software developer Steve Zeal, who often hires contractors.  "It may just take a little longer to find the right project."  Moral:  Make sure your name and skills are known throughout your market area, whether you are marketed by an agency or find clients on your own.

6.  Learn to accept "no" and go on.  "Understand that there are a certain number of jobs that you won't get," says Elizabeth Perle McKenna, author of When Work Doesn't Work Anymore.  "Let them go."  Some agencies, especially the larger ones, may be unwilling to hassle with "special circumstances."

7.  Plan for job security.  Those looking for balance may face more downtime, at least at first, than those willing to accept any conditions offered.  Plan your cash flow accordingly by paying yourself a regular salary and banking the rest.  Market yourself continually, especially when you're busy.  It will help you avoid the "Oh my god, I don't have any work!" syndrome.