If a regular job is not for you, I'd say try your own business again. If the last went bust, then at least you'll know what problems/pitfalls to avoid/plan for. I set up an online business with a partner and it's going OK, but I guess it starts from a good idea. Other than that, you could do agency work, offer services on short-term contracts to local businesses (great in this economic climate), offer to do research projects for small businesses, offer to distribute advertising for small businesses etc. It's hard to say. What skills do you have in particular?