Working as a freelancer for the past five years has kept me away from the traditional office setting. This means I no longer have to deal with daily commutes, schedule planning, and interactions with colleagues. Being a freelancer can be very fulfilling at times, but it also requires a lot of self-discipline. After all, the responsibility falls on you to manage your work time effectively. Working from home amidst countless distractions can be quite challenging, but over the years, I have learned to maintain focus and self-motivation by following certain principles for freelancers.
One might wonder, isn’t the whole idea of being a freelancer to wake up whenever you want? While you could indulge in sleeping until noon, it may not necessarily help you maintain focus during work hours. Developing a habit of starting work late can lead to a lack of responsibility and a tendency to work late into the night and then sleep in, impacting your dedication to work.
Research by German biologist Christoph Randler suggests that early risers are more proactive than night owls. Setting a specific start time for work, such as 8 a.m. for me, or even earlier if you find yourself productive in the morning, can significantly boost your productivity.
Although there are no strict dress codes for freelancers, working all day in casual home clothes like loose sweatpants and worn-out t-shirts can make you feel guilty, as I once realized after reading an article by UK-based psychology professor and fashion psychologist Karen Pine. In her piece, she emphasized how the clothes we wear can affect our mindset and behavior, with each outfit symbolizing different meanings. Hence, dressing formally or in attire that puts you in a work-oriented mindset can enhance productivity.
For me, wearing jeans and a t-shirt strikes the right balance between comfort and productivity. However, when I need to step up, putting on a button-up shirt can instantly shift me into a more focused mode.
As a freelancer, it’s crucial to establish a daily schedule to maintain order, focus, and positivity. Structuring your day, including planning, email responses, and social media updates in the morning hours, followed by dedicated work sessions and breaks, helps set a productive routine. Maintaining a passion for freelancing is essential to avoid burnout, as losing interest can lead to mistakes and challenges in work quality.
Having essential tools like a computer and internet connection is a basic requirement for freelancers, but additional aids can enhance focus and productivity. Utilizing timers, such as the Pomodoro Technique, and time-tracking software can help ensure efficient work periods and breaks. Moreover, using apps or tools to block distractions on your devices can limit interruptions during work hours.
It’s common for personal and work messages to blur together, making it challenging to stay focused on tasks. Setting boundaries between personal and work communications, such as having a separate work phone line or email, can help concentrate on work-related matters during designated work hours.
Creating a designated workspace that receives natural light, maintaining a comfortable temperature, and keeping the area tidy can enhance focus and productivity. Stepping outside during breaks or engaging in physical activities can prevent feeling confined to indoor workspaces, promoting overall well-being.
While freelancing can be isolating at times, interactions with colleagues or peers are essential for fostering creativity and collaboration. Physical connections like handshakes or friendly chats stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with trust and teamwork, emphasizing the importance of social interactions for freelancers.
Identifying and prioritizing urgent tasks, as suggested by LifeHacker, can prevent procrastination and ensure essential work is completed promptly. Planning ahead by designating a small, manageable task for the next workday can kickstart your productivity and set a positive tone for the week.
Remember, finding a balance between work and relaxation is key to sustaining focus and motivation as a freelancer. Embrace opportunities to socialize, change work environments occasionally, and engage with local communities to enhance your overall well-being and professional growth.
Each freelance journey is unique, so it’s vital to pursue work you genuinely enjoy and find fulfilling. Prioritizing self-care, establishing effective work habits, and fostering connections beyond your workspace can contribute to a successful and rewarding freelancing experience.