Top tips for staying motivated as a freelancer
Sarah Richard – World Wanderer
Being a freelancer may just be one of the best jobs in the world! You are your own boss, you set your hours and you have the creative freedom to express yourself in ways not possible to many others. However, there’s now a new pressure on yourself to stay motivated and inspired, when the truth is, you don’t have to go into an office (the temptation of staying in bed and binge watch Netflix is all too real). However, staying motivated is the key to becoming a successful freelancer, so here are some top tips to make sure you are always on your A-game.
Know when you are at your most creative
Recognise the times when you are at your most creative. You may find that first thing in the morning when you have just woken up is when you have your best ideas, or even last thing at night when you have just got into bed. Let’s be honest, who really likes waking up at 7am – have that cheeky lie in! Or if chipping off work at 4 am floats your boat then don’t schedule morning meetings or calls when you know you will most likely still be catching some good Zzzz’s. The key to being a freelancer is being aware of your strengths – and this relates straight back to timing.
Set the scene
If you are a night owl, and your creative juices are flowing while most others are sleeping, then be prepared for that. Have a notebook by your bed so if you suddenly come up with your next great pitch (automatic breakfast maker anyone?). Maybe you can only work around other people? Have you thought about joining a co-working space? An office where other creative freelancers gather to work together and share ideas, while still being able to work alone in a motivated environment. Or maybe you find the buzz of a coffee shop the place for you? Whatever surroundings inspire you, go there! Don’t stay at home just because you think that’s where you should be.
Set your own personal schedule
The freelance world is not a ‘one-size fits all’ kind of world. Try experimenting with different routines and schedules until you find the one that fits you. The recommended average hours of sleep is 8 hours, but that doesn’t work for everyone – screw the system! Have as many as you like! Also, remember that your focus has its own natural rhythm. Do not beat yourself up about not being focused at all hours of the day. Dance to the beat of your rhythm. Oh and that ‘work day’ society lays on us, aka 9 – 5 and one hour off for lunch, seriously, who follows that anymore?
Double Trouble
One of the dangers in going solo is you stop bouncing ideas off others! Surrounding yourself with fellow creatives gives you the encouragement to keep going. Find out where your nearest co-working office is and give it a try. Worst case scenario: You meet some new friends – yea this freelancer life really is a tough gig hey!?
Never forget why you started
I bet most people would love to be in the situation you are in right now- setting your own schedule, having more freedom and still being able to make happy hour! Remind yourself: How much you earn is determined on the amount of hard work you put it – so keep grinding hard, find out what works for you and use that to the best of your ability. You can thank me later. ;-)
Sarah Richard is a 26 year old professional world wanderer. 4 years ago she left the UK and everything that offered her security and routine in exchange for a constant life of excitement and adventure. And she is still living it now. Through out working as a Dive Master, freelance writer,running her blog (coffeewithasliceoflife.com) and working along the way she now leads a life as a full time digital nomad. So follow her in her travels, in which ever country in the world she choses, and learn how you can do it too.