I used to hand sand everything until my arms ached. Then I got a decent orbital sander and learned to use it right. The finish is just as smooth, but it takes a fraction of the time. For example, a drawer front that took an hour now takes ten minutes. My work looks better because I'm not tired and rushing. If you're still doing it by hand, you're working too hard for no good reason. Just try it once and see.
I think passing the trade to family first can ignore better talent waiting outside.