Mean Income: $62,970 Top 10%: $115,300
Depending on your state, the qualifications for becoming an insurance agent could be as simple as taking a basic course, passing some tests, and getting your license. This job will be either one of the worst career paths you’ve ever tried or one of the most lucrative and rewarding ones. Many insurance agents get paid “passive” monthly income for retaining their clients. If you’re great at sales, this may just be the job for you.
Depending on your temperament and level of motivation, this could be either extremely rewarding and satisfying or downright awful. What’s certain is that in this career, only you can truly make your fortune.
Authors and Writers
Mean Income: $68,060 Top 10%: $115,740
There are tons of writing jobs, from SEO writers (who help businesses rank high on Google searches) to content writers. One option is to find a stable writing job that pays you a salary or based on how much work you do. Another option is to go freelance and have full control over your projects.
Being hired for a writing job has more to do with the field you’re entering than having an actual degree. The more skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable you are at a specific niche, the easier and more lucrative opportunities will be available to you. Just do yourself a favor and get a standing desk, your back and neck will thank you for it later on.
Art Directors
Mean Income: $95,500 Top 10%: $166,620
Art Directors are responsible for things like designing video games and turning them from an art project into a real business. This means that you need to have both a creative mind and higher managerial and number-oriented skills. Steve Jobs is a great example of such a mix.
In terms of credentials, you’ll need to have a BA and at least a few years of working in a management position (unless you’re planning to start or join a new company). This is a potentially risky position. Art directors are often blamed if projects end up failing for any reason, as they are responsible for both the artistic and business side of things.
Public Relations Manager
Mean Income: $90,410 Top 10%: $128,101
Public relations can be either amazing or a nightmare. This job requires a lot of communication, and an ability to spin and present bad things positively. Public relations managers basically have to make sure everyone thinks favorably of their product/company. It’s all about maintaining that great image in the minds of others.
To get into the field, you’ll probably need a Bachelor's degree in Communications or a related field (or a related cousin). Having a lot of experience and successful past accomplishments obviously helps too. You’ll also want to develop really good communication skills, both written and spoken.
Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers
Mean Income: $70,010 Top 10%: $112,150
Despite many regulations and economic issues, farming is still one of the most lucrative fields in the rural market and has the potential for a hefty income. If you’re not afraid of hard work, heavy machinery, and having to work with mother nature, this might be a great job for you. If, however, you’re a more desk-oriented person, agricultural managing might be a good choice.
Lacking experience shouldn’t stop you, as you can simply start by becoming an apprentice of an experienced farmer. This is an industry that’s always looking for high-quality people, so try your luck if you love the idea of getting your hands dirty and making a profit at the same time.