I've been in this industry one and off the for best part of 10 years. I've rebranded twice, taken substantial time away but every time I came back, I had no issues building up business again. I've always found this industry to be very profitable.

Last year I left, had to focus on other things, but kept a handful of regulars that I'd see from time to time. I recently came back properly, thinking I'd be hitting the ground running as I have always done, but no!

I still have a few core regulars, who are now my bread and butter. I have had some clients return that I used to see over the years, but the majority of the clients I would see have moved on. No idea if they've found someone else in my absence or just not spending the cash. I have had only a few new clients since I have been back.

In all my years, I have never known it to be this quiet. My rates are slightly lower than they were before I left, because am conscious that money has certainly dried up.

Speaking to peers, they say the same - have to work harder at marketing to gain similar clients to what they would have with minimal marketing.

I guess I naively thought I would be able to just slot back into my groove despite my lengthy absence.

Back to the marketing drawing board!