self-employment / independence
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self-employment
The professional situation in which a person works on their own account and at their own risk and is not employed as an employee by an employer.
Nach vielen Jahren als Angestellte wagte sie den Schritt in die Selbstständigkeit.
After many years as an employee, she dared to take the step into self-employment.
The word is derived from the adjective 'selbstständig' (independent/self-employed), which consists of 'selbst' (self) and 'ständig' (in the sense of 'standing'). It literally describes the state of 'standing on one's own two feet.'
Mit 18 Jahren genoss er seine neue Selbstständigkeit.
At 18, he enjoyed his new independence.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about work, a company, or finances, professional self-employment is meant. If it is about upbringing, personal development, or everyday skills, personal independence is meant.
Er plant den Sprung in die Selbstständigkeit als IT-Berater.
He is planning the leap into self-employment as an IT consultant.
In a professional context, the expressions 'der Schritt in die Selbstständigkeit' (the step into self-employment) or 'der Sprung in die Selbstständigkeit' (the leap into self-employment) are often used. This emphasizes that it is an important decision.
Viele fürchten den Schritt in die Selbstständigkeit wegen des finanziellen Risikos.
Many people fear the step into self-employment because of the financial risk.
In a personal context, 'Selbstständigkeit' (independence) is often combined with verbs such as 'fördern' (to promote), 'unterstützen' (to support), 'erlangen' (to gain), or 'bewahren' (to preserve).
Gute Eltern fördern die Selbstständigkeit ihrer Kinder.
Good parents promote their children's independence.
independence
'Unabhängigkeit' and 'Selbstständigkeit' can both describe that a person manages without much help from others. 'Unabhängigkeit' emphasizes the state of not being dependent on others, for example financially or personally. 'Selbstständigkeit' puts more emphasis on the ability to do things oneself and make one’s own decisions. In addition, 'Selbstständigkeit' has a special work-related meaning: working not as an employee, but on one’s own account. The words can be confused when talking about one’s own life. In the context of work, 'Selbstständigkeit' is often more precise.
Nach dem Gespräch denkt der Verkäufer über den Schritt in die Selbstständigkeit nach.
After the conversation, the salesperson thinks about taking the step into self-employment.
Amira spart Geld, weil ihr die Unabhängigkeit von ihrer Familie wichtig ist.
Amira is saving money because independence from her family is important to her.