Italian Phrase
Spero di mettermi in proprio.
Meaning
This phrase expresses the desire to become self-employed or to launch a personal business venture. It uses the idiomatic expression 'mettersi in proprio', which literally means 'to put oneself on one's own' in a professional context.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing career goals, professional aspirations, or your future plans during a job interview or a casual conversation with friends. It is the standard way to say you want to be your own boss in Italian.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sperodimettermiin proprio
Sperare di
The verb 'sperare' (to hope) requires the preposition 'di' when followed by an infinitive sharing the same subject.
Mettersi
This is a reflexive verb; the 'mi' suffix corresponds to 'myself', showing the action is directed at the speaker.
In proprio
This is a fixed prepositional phrase used specifically to denote self-employment or working for oneself.
🗨In Conversation
Cosa ti piacerebbe fare dopo l'università?
What would you like to do after university?
Spero di mettermi in proprio e non avere capi.
I hope to start my own business and have no bosses.
✕Common Mistakes
Spero di fare in proprio.
The correct verb for this idiom is 'mettersi', not 'fare'.
Spero mettermi in proprio.
When the subject is the same, 'sperare' must be followed by the preposition 'di' before the infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Voglio aprire la mia attività.
I want to open my own business.
Spero di diventare un libero professionista.
I hope to become a freelancer.
Cultural Tip
Italy has a very strong culture of small and medium-sized enterprises (PMI). While the bureaucracy is famously complex, the dream of 'mettersi in proprio' is common among Italians who value professional independence and craftsmanship.