As exciting as being a PI is, and having access to so many information, being your own private investigator, or any private investigator, for that matter, sure has its pitfalls as well. Sure, you get to follow someone around, get to find out juicy secrets about them. Some PIs, if they’re very good, can get paid really well.

But let’s face facts. Being a PI isn’t all adventure and excitement. The job has some serious dangers, and it helps to know what you’re getting into before you go all the way.

It’s Just Plain Dangerous
Your job is to snoop around and find some dirt on someone. Sometimes, you will stumble upon a bigger case than you thought you’d be in, and it could cost you your life. People value their privacy, and once they find out that they’re being trailed, they’re not going to exactly give you a basket of muffins and welcome you into their life. Bigger institutions who find out about your sleuthing duties can sue you or drain you of your finances. Once you’re caught, your life or reputation can be compromised.

It Can Be Dull
You thought all this was going to be exciting, huh? Well, wake up. This is not a movie, and private eyes actually have to do a lot of dull jobs such as phone traces, calls to various people, and paper-related work. This can be tedious, but necessary so you can get to the exciting part of the job. So don’t go thinking this is going to be all about being a nimble detective out to catch the bad guy.

The hours!
Yep, sometimes, the hours can be pretty unbelievable, especially if the case, and your client, needs to have everything as soon as possible. Some clients can be pretty demanding, which means you have to forego your date, or tell the guys that you won’t be watching the game with them. Being a PI means being dedicated, so you have to put in the necessary hours. Plus, investigating takes a lot of time, and once you’re in the groove, you can’t afford to lose it.

Rain or Shine, You Have To Work
Because being a private eye is a pretty unconventional occupation, you will have to follow through on your duties regardless of the weather. This is maybe why Sherlock has that long coat to begin with. So if you’re not ready to go out in the pouring rain and go look for clues, so have to rethink your PI dreams.

No Weekends, No Holidays
If your case happens to fall on a holiday, then you’re going to have to work as well. Private investigators know no holidays, and sometimes, working on a holiday is actually required, as it allows you more access to more information. So say goodbye to those weekends or special holidays, because you’re probably up to your neck with work!

Are you still bent on becoming a private eye after reading through all that? Then congratulations! You’re probably ready to take on this task!

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