Task 2 Directions: This task is the same as Task 1. The 5 questions or unfinished statements are numbered 26 to 30. I worked as a manager in a company for a number of years. I liked my job, and was doing well there, but our company was bought by a larger company and most of the managers at our place lost their jobs. That was when I decided to do something I’d always wanted to do — become a freelance ( 自由撰稿的 ) writer. Changing professions has meant that my lifestyle has changed in a number of ways. The main difference for me now is that I have a much more flexible ( 灵活的 ) schedule. I work about as much as I did before — between 45 and 50 hours a week — but my schedule is much less rigid than it used to be. Before, I worked from 8 to 5 every day, with a few extra hours on weekends. Now, however, I work when I feel like it. For instance, sometimes I work until midnight or 2 A.M., then sleep until noon. I really prefer this kind of schedule. It seems more natural to me. I also decided that it was about time I began to pay more attention to my health. While I was working as a manager, I never exercised. I already felt tired after work, so I just came home in the evening and watched TV. However, last year I joined a health club and began to do regular exercise. As a result I have lost over 10 pounds and I feel much better. I’ve also started to eat more healthfully. I used to eat a lot of fast food, but now I do my own shopping. I buy lots of fruits and vegetables and cook them at home. Of course, not all the changes have been that easy. For example, I don’t feel as secure financially as I used to. When I was working as a manager, I never worried much about money. I could always count on getting my paycheck every two weeks. Working freelance, I don’t have a regular paycheck. So now I have to make sure there’s enough money until the next check arrives. All in all, I really like my current lifestyle. Of course, that doesn’t mean I’ll never want to have a “regular” job. But for now, at least, it suits me. 26. Why did the author decide to become a freelance writer?