My son is a musician (a composer), and he’s trying to get a career started with essentially gig work (along with a regular part-time job). I think that’s a different animal than a lot of business-type temp work. It’s daunting, because you really need for the gigs to build on each other–to lead not only to more gigs, but to better gigs. There are some real downsides. When he turns 26, he’ll have to get his own health insurance. His taxes are complicated. He could have some long dry periods. Etc.
Is an actor or actress who goes from one acting job to another doing gig work? If so, I guess that is what my D does. Besides acting she has several part-time jobs (teaching acting class at a private school and a public school and at a summer camp). Downside–pay isnt great and no benefits; she was on our health plan until last summer and then purchased an individual plan. (We help with that because we think it is essential and she might let it go.) Upside–she loves her work and is happy and starting an MFA acting program in the fall.
I was a part time “independent contractor” when my kids were young. I occasionally did some drafting for friends as well. I was lucky that dh had a steady job and health insurance. I think it’s not nearly as attractive otherwise.
“I’m in a good situation because my profession is an area of shortage…so it’s hard to find folks for leave positions.”
Thumper1: What type of work do you do that is a shortage area?
I’m a speech pathologist.
Do you work through a school system?
The best things for me:
Autonomy. Job security via diversifying (maybe?). Rarely boring. Networking. Flexible schedule. I don’t think a robot can do my job…yet.
Are any of the gig workers here the principal earner in their household?
I have been the principal earner for my household (before and after my divorce) through “gig” (contract) work since 1999. But am weighing giving it up – just moved, and it is harder to find contracts I want to do in my new city without a deep network (I sort of thought this might happen). So I may take a “real job” for 2-3 years, but would hope to return to gig work eventually.
Yes, I work in the schools.
@GMTplus7 …I was a part-time employee for years and then when my husband was laid off I became the main breadwinner. I had to staple together TWO part-time gigs but am seriously fortunate they are both well paying. I always joke that we were probably the only family with a laid off worker who went to Nantucket that year 
(I had a work conference there that was already paid for but still!!).
One of my “gigs” is now part-time salaried with full benefits. I don’t think I will ever let it go. The benefits are incredible and the work is so flexible. I create my own schedule. I have zero office politics. I’m usually done by 2-3 pm. One meeting a month. I love my job!
H makes about 60% of the household income & my patchwork of jobs is about 40%.
S has a full time job and a gig part time hobby he gets benefits from job but more income from gig. Together, he clears a very nice income and benefits. He lives alone and supports himself!