We live in a really fast world and because it is essential to always stay connected, keeping a balanced work-life schedule is very important. With more remote workers in the freelance space, the distinction between work and life is not clear and due to the independence freelancing offers, the opportunity to work anytime and anywhere preferable has been bought. In essence, the inability to establish structures and set reasonable limits could wear you out.
However, while being your own boss, maintaining balance between work and life is important because it ignites more passion for the business.
What could be the solution when you find it overwhelming to set a distinction between work and life?
1. Establish a flexible timetable
One of the things that make freelancing appealing is its flexible nature and this feature would be defeated when you start working round the clock like regular employees. Initiating a flexible schedule affords you the opportunity to take a break in order not to keep yourself glued to work every time. If you are most productive in the morning, get up and do the needful so you’d have the remaining day to yourself.
2. Initiate a “task schedule” for your business
Being a sole proprietor, you are saddled with so much to care for ranging from administration, finance, business development, sales and marketing. Ascertain that the time is created within the task schedule to seek further engagements from new clients, sustain client relationships, manage records and a host of other things to be done. It would not be a good idea if you take up on those engagements when you are off work.
3. Avoid being overcommitted
As a remote worker and in the bid to make more money, it’s easy to take up many jobs than you can handle. This can make you wear out, miss deadlines and can cause a depreciation in the quality of work. It is important to know your capacity per time and if you have to say no to some engagements, it’s important to say it.
4. Allocate when there is too much
On occasions when you feel you have too much to handle, it is important to delegate to other fellow professionals. Having a good relationship with other freelancers in your niche is key.
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With this, you would know who’s best to give the project. When you outsource, there is more time to pay attention to other things more important to you.
5. Set up a workspace
While you could work from your couch, it is also necessary to set up a physical space for work. This could be in your home or some more comfortable places for you. This keeps you productive and also helps you place a distinction between work and life.
6. Create time for leisure
According to Jenny Knizner’s post published on USAtoday, you become too busy at work, the things you love to do at leisure suffer. In trying to strike a balance between work and life, there should be time for the things you love. This may be exercising more, cooking or spending quality time with relatives.
One thing to do is to utilize your time off work for the things you like. It’s important to be intentional to do something active to be refreshed.
7. Inform clients when you’re “off work”
As a freelancer, it would be a great idea to inform your clients you would not be available 24/7. This would do you so much good. Communicate the days and hours you will be working and ensure you stick to it. For instance, when you are off for the day, it’s not necessary to go back to emails as clients might think you are available.
8. Plan your week ahead
Setting up a work or personal calendar enables you to manage time as an independent worker. To prevent being overwhelmed with your schedules, plan your week from the most important to the least engagements. Planning your week ahead affords you direction as it also helps you to follow through your plans.
