No difference between permanent and contracting...

I started out contracting for a long time until eventually moving into a permanent position. At the time, on reflecting on everything, I couldn't see any major difference between the two. I've always maintained there isn't a big difference in the long run.

But there is one thing I've just started to realize that I miss. That's the downtime (when there is some) between jobs. Now I take holidays, and even though I know I'll still have a job when it is done, I don't have the time to learn new technology like I would during downtime.

Holidays are for de-stressing and catching up with family. Downtime was the time to re-skill and explore. Or more likely, I had more free time to develop my professional skills and interests.