Work-Life Balance for Freelancers

When I first started freelancing, I made some rookie mistakes. I had one client who was under the misconception I was on retainer (didn’t establish boundaries). I allowed myself to go down the internet research rabbit hole (didn’t define writing goals). I didn’t keep regular business hours (no set schedule). It felt like I was always working, even on weekends. Not even a year into my freelancing career and I was already experiencing burnout. Here are some things that helped me achieve a better work-life balance.

Create a Daily Routine

I enjoyed the flexibility and freedom of being my own boss – late night movie binges, no set schedule. It took a few months, but it finally occurred to me that while sleeping in was great, I missed out on potential clients and projects, failing to respond to callbacks and emails within the requested timeframe.

Create a daily routine. Incorporate freelance work (both writing and boring admin stuff) with personal activities. Foster a work-life balance by distributing your time strategically.

Establish Clear Working Hours

After having a corporate job of one kind or another, business hours work best for me. I am at the computer at 9 AM. I take an hour for lunch. At around 4 PM, I switch from writing to freelancer administrative tasks. Before I finish for the day at 5 o’clock, I create a (flexible) to-do list and set goals, ready for my workday the next morning.

I know industry and healthcare professionals recommend taking five-minute breaks for every half hour of computer time, but it interrupts my thought process, especially when I’m in the zone.

Do you work better outside of standard business hours? Set a schedule that works for you. Let your clients know when you are available.

Work Organized and in Comfort

Ideally, having an area that is separate from your living space will help you physically and psychologically establish boundaries between work and life. You don’t have to have a dedicated home office, but the space should be functional and comfortable. It should include:

• Someplace that is quiet and free of distractions

• Natural light

• A desk, chair, and accompanying office equipment that is ergonomically set up

• Videoconferencing capabilities

Set Boundaries

Having clear working hours establishes a specific timeframe you are available to your clients. But also set boundaries with family and friends. I often encounter the mindset that freelancing means I have the time anytime during the day to have a chat, go shopping, or meet for coffee. Ask friends and family to respect your business hours.

Learn to Say No

You don’t do yourself or your clients any favours if you take on more projects than you can comfortably complete within their deadlines.

Especially if you will not be compensated, decline requests for any “extras” such as:

• A problem-solving proposal or strategy plan

• Quotes/estimates requested by clients who end up not hiring you for the project (an established pattern of behaviour)

• Test writing samples

• Free samples – a “small” banner, a “short” blog post, or a couple of “quick” logo sketches

• Excessive revisions

• Scope creep

Turn down a project if it’s not right for you.

Prioritize Self-Care

A healthy diet and getting a good night’s sleep is a good a place to start. Pay attention to your health and mental wellness. Spend quality time with loved ones; go for a walk; engage in a hobby that inspires you.

Take Vacations

For years, I kept telling myself I couldn’t afford to take vacations – when I had the time, I didn’t have the funds (and vise versa). However, in the past five years, I have made it a habit of taking time off around Christmas, even if it’s a short trip or a staycation.

As part a mindful work-life balance, take day trips or plan longer vacations – it prevents burnout, helps you recharge, and adds to your experiences, giving you a fresh perspective on life.