Freud was discouraged from his intended career in scientific research by a professor who convinced him that it would be many years before he could support himself financially in the university system of the day. Since he lacked an independent income, Freud decided to enter private practice upon completing his training. A further impetus toward private practice was his engagement to Martha Bernays, which lasted four years before he could afford to marry. (Even then he had to borrow money and pawn his watch.) Thus, Freud established a practice as a clinical neurologist in 1881 and began his exploration into the personalities of those suffering emotional disturbances.