OK, this is much easier said than done. I admit that this is a piece of information that is cliché and not usually very uplifting when you're stuck at a depressing job and have sent out your hundredth resume without a response. The fact is, it may take some time to find your first contract. If you really have the skills that you are presenting and you are really good at what you do, you will probably find work. If the economy is good, it will be easier to find consulting work. If the economy is bad, it will take longer. But if you really have something to offer, and you continue relentlessly, you will eventually find what you seek.