As some of you know, I've been chosen as a finalist in the 15 for 15 awards celebrating "the UK's top freelancers". It's a great honour, and I'm so glad that the industry is recognising self-employed people as, unfortunately, we're so often overlooked.
The awards evening is this Wednesday, tying in with National Freelancers Day. So I thought it would be a great opportunity to share one of my freelance advice articles I've written for IPSE's blog with my readers here. This article touches on one of those things that I know a lot of us face when we're self-employed, but not that many people speak candidly about - the stress, isolation and tendency to overwork that starting up and running your own business brings. From my experience, here's some of the things I've been working on to keep that all at bay, and to stay a happy freelancer -
There's something so bold about taking the leap into freelancing. It's a brave career choice whatever business you're in, but there's something we all have in common – that passion to do what we love for a living.
I'm a freelance illustrator, working and living in the North West. I'm thankful to have been very successful in my industry, but I still often struggle with the challenges that freelancing can, and will, throw at you.
Whether you're just starting out, or you're a seasoned lone-wolf business master there will always be certain aspects of freelancing which can slow your productivity and motivation. There are the obvious solutions - just push through, keep working, hang in there - but here are my personal insights into staying happy, stress free and productive in your freelance work.
So, the first hurdle you'll face is that aforementioned leap into freelancing. It's a big move and if you've already made that decision, you've obviously got the drive and spirit for the long haul challenges. Starting out is tricky. You have a lot of organising on your plate, but the key things to focus on are knowing what you're selling (your service, product, business strategy), how to market yourself (and who to), and your business goals. They're all obvious things, but physically writing down those headers and making notes will be a great anchor to refer back to as your career develops. For me, as an illustrator, I've spent a long time developing my portfolio and building my presence online. In this modern tech-frenzy world, that's one of the essentials - making connections through social media and speaking with potential clients, to enable the promotion of your business as a by-product of those connections and friendships.
Social media has been so important to my career, and I've actually had a lot of work through promotion on the likes of Twitter and Facebook. In fact, for my latest book The Lavender Blue Dress, the author and publishers first saw my work on Twitter and commissioned me! I wholeheartedly recommend throwing yourself into building a strong online presence, but always head at it with the knowledge that everyone (no matter how big a company they're head of) is just a person, and focus on the aspect of human connection. Friendship can lead to contacts, and contacts can lead to projects.
Now, all this talk of social media might have you thinking, “but I like to talk to people in real life!” Don't worry, that's such an important part of freelancing too. If you work from home (like I do), you'll often hit the challenge of isolation. Impatient deadlines and heavy inboxes might make you feel like you have to be a hermit. But always remember to grab the chance for engaging in some real networking, workshop hosting, freelancer gatherings and client meets, not only for the contacts, but for the social experience. If it's available in your area, I'd also recommend looking into hot-desking or renting a co-working space. It might cost you a few more pennies, but being in a work environment and having the ability to bounce ideas around can be invaluable.
If you don't have access to an office or studio, make sure you have a dedicated work space (preferably with a door you can close), no matter how small. One of the hardest pit-falls I've felt with freelancing is the ability to switch off from work. That feeling of needing to check your emails on holiday or having to work those late, late nights to make the deadline. They're the weights that make 9-5ing seem like paradise. I know first-hand how tricky it can be to schedule normal working hours, it just doesn't happen when you have clients all over the world and an armful of deadlines. But - and this is something I'm working on too - try your best to allow yourself time off. You're allowed time off. Having financial responsibility for yourself can make it feel like you have to work all the time to make up for the quiet months, but you'll most likely suffer emotionally for it. It's a fine balance: we have to work hard to keep our business going, but we need that time to not think about work and to recharge or we won't be productive in the long term.
So, go out now and reward your hard work with a half-hour walk. Think about how far you've come, acknowledge your achievements and set yourself some attainable goals for the coming months. To be a happy freelancer, you have to always remember the reason you chose to go it alone – you're doing what you love and you know you can succeed.
This really is one shade of the dark underbelly of freelancing, it's not glamorous or healthy to overwork yourself, and it can be hard to avoid feeling guilty for the time you do take off; but as I said in the article: You are allowed time off. You will work better for it. You will feel better for it. You're not just pure creativity output, you need something other than work-thoughts to feed the input. Work hard in your work time, whatever hours they are (yeah, probably ban yourself from Twitter, Facebook and Reddit huh?) and seize those after-work hours.
If anyone wants to rally together in some sort of over-work detox grab me (or leave a comment or message, y'know). There's far too many over worked lone-wolves out there, let's band together under the metaphorical crescent moon of freelancing, and howl "WE ARE ALLOWED TONIGHT OFF".
(p.s. I was feeling a bit inspired by the animation project I'm working on with Chog Zoo, so I whipped up my second ever gif to illustrate this piece, hurray!).
for me it's the isolation and unsteady income and not knowing where the next will be or if there will be a next!
ReplyDelete0____o
although, I do often find thankfulness to be able to go out and walk my dog at least 3 times a day
Yeah that's definitely a constant undercurrent for all freelancers I think. I'd definitely recommend trying to squeeze in a collaborative project or a creative meet up every so often and that will help with the isolation.
DeleteThere's not much anyone can say with regards to work line-ups, it's that uncertain thing we all face, but just make sure you spend the quiet times taking a hard look at your folio and setting work and challenges for yourself.
It's great that you've got that time to get out! I treated myself to a looong walk today and feel so much more inspired for it.
Best of luck!
Hi. Great post. Would you have any advice for someone with no experience? I graduated three years ago but still have no idea how to get into the industry.
ReplyDeleteHi Aaron, if you head over to http://www.tenpacesanddraw.com/category/creative-tips-resources/ I have an article called 'Getting Started, Getting Seen' which might help. Avoid doing work for free, but just spend your time developing your work and taking a critical look at your portfolio. Make connections by making friends with people - speak to companies on social media, and send out concise emails (with one or two pieces of medium-res work attached, or just a web link) to companies you think work well with your style.
DeleteHope that helps! I'll be writing more articles on this sort of thing soon, so keep an eye out :-)
Thank you for this honest post. I still haven't taken the leap into freelancing, but I appreciate reading this kind of post among all the others telling me how amazing being a freelance is. Of course it has a lot of advantages, but I'd like to tackle this issue from a broader perspective and this has helped :)
ReplyDeleteRosa Martin
www.rosemarynotes.com
Thanks Rosa. Of course there are a lot of amazing things about working for yourself, I could bleat on for hours about them - but yes, I think it's really important to give a balanced insight. There's never been a better time to take the leap into freelancing, and there's a lot of support available; so if you have the drive and ambition to work for yourself it's definitely worth a shot. Best of luck! You're always welcome to email me if you want any extra advice! hello@emmelineillustration.com :-)
DeleteNo doubt this is an excellent post I got a lot of knowledge after good luck. Theme of blog is excellent there is almost everything to read, Brilliant post.
ReplyDeleteGraphic Design Service
This particular papers fabulous, and My spouse and i enjoy each of the perform that you have placed into this. I’m sure that you will be making a really useful place. I has been additionally pleased. Good perform! https://illustrationstyles.net/
ReplyDeleteNice blog !!
ReplyDeleteIt's a great opportunity for freelencer. I also want to suggest one freelancing website..
here is the link : Android Freelance Jobs
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteaDScsaDfSdf
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I found this internet site I went on reddit to share some of the love with them. webflow developer
ReplyDeleteWow, wonderful blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you make blogging look easy. The overall look of your web site is fantastic, let alone the content! webflow designers
ReplyDeleteEasily, the article is actually the best topic on this registry related issue. I fit in with your conclusions and will eagerly look forward to your next updates. Just saying thanks will not just be sufficient, for the fantasti c lucidity in your writing. I will instantly grab your rss feed to stay informed of any updates. https://eleganteduc.netlify.com
ReplyDeleteI have read your article, it is very informative and helpful for me.I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it. Freelance Jobs Online In UAE
ReplyDeleteYou have noted very useful details! PS. nice web site. “Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business.” by Tom Robbins.. front end developer
ReplyDeleteToday's world we really need this kind of information to make our freelancing skills stronger
ReplyDeleteyes bro it is really high demand able information in the Blog freelancing career
DeleteThe Law Office of Samuel E. Thomas serves clients in Athens, Gainesville, Atlanta, Watkinsville, Monroe, Winder, Jefferson, Greensboro, Commerce, Madison, Eatonton, Lexington, Elberton, Carnesville, Royston, Hartwell, Danielsville, Clarke County, Oconee County, Walton County, Gwinnett County, Oglethorpe County, Morgan County, Putnam County, Greene County, Madison County, Franklin County, Hart County, Elbert County, Hall County, Barrow County, Jackson County, Athens Metro Area and Lake Oconee, Georgia
ReplyDeleteClick Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Click Here
Free SEO Course by Brian Dean
ReplyDeleteNice article, Which you have shared here about the shade. we provide waterproof shade sails online at affordable prices. for more info visit our website.
ReplyDeleteA post for many needs, I got to know a lot after reading it. I hope many will benefit. And many thanks if you want to know more click Blog commenting thanks
ReplyDeleteHasibul
This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. Pergolas Dubai
ReplyDeleteThere are numerous advantages of outsourcing. You can work for yourself and can work at whatever point you like.Professional graphic design
ReplyDeletededwef
ReplyDeleteI really like your writing style, great information, thankyou for posting. 200 dofollow blog comments
ReplyDeleteGood website! I truly love how it is easy on my eyes it is. I am wondering how I might be notified whenever a new post has been made. I have subscribed to your RSS which may do the trick? Have a great day! I will 800 dofollow blog comment backlinks high da 20 to 80
ReplyDeleteWonderful article. Fascinating to read. I love to read such an excellent article. Thanks! It has made my task more and extra easy. Keep rocking. twitter ibmseo
ReplyDeleteThanks for this blog. Thanks for the ideas you shared with us. It is a big help not just for me but for all the readers who don’t have any ideas about this kind of tips.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing excellent information. Your website is so cool. I am impressed by the details that you've on this website. It reveals how nicely you perceive this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for more articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found simply the information I already searched everywhere and just couldn't come across. What an ideal website. I must say, I thought this was a pretty interesting read when it comes to this topic. Liked the material best email provider uk
ReplyDeletei love reading this article so beautiful!!great job! Unique Domians
ReplyDeleteInteresting and amazing how your post is! It Is Useful and helpful for me That I like it very much, and I am looking forward to Hearing from your next.. remote work
ReplyDeleteTo flourish effectively in independent business, a consultant needs to remain refreshed with most recent innovations, patterns, requests and the market. He needs keep his learning interaction on as there would be less openness to office climate. Click Here
ReplyDeleteTook me time to read all the comments, but I really enjoyed the article. It proved to be Very helpful to me and I am sure to all the commenters here! It’s always nice when you can not only be informed, but also entertained! Freelance
ReplyDeleteExcellent article. Very interesting to read. I really love to read such a nice article. Thanks! keep rocking. visa touristique canadien
ReplyDeletePretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts. Any way I'll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Big thanks for the useful info. hindistan vizesi çevrimiçi
ReplyDeleteThis website was... how do I tell it? Relevant!! I finally found something that helped me. Thanks. Eligible travelers can obtain electronic Visa Turkey by filling an online form with their personal details and passport information.
ReplyDeleteNice website the following! Furthermore the website a lot upwards fast! workingpro.net
ReplyDeleteSoftware Craft offers full-scale software improvement organizations in various application headway conditions. Our ability spread over a wide scope of programming tongues. Our ability is to make client laborer applications including web-enabled/intranet-engaged applications.ecommerce development company in usa
ReplyDeleteGetting good shoes is necessary to move on rough surfaces all day. Check out this list of the 5 best shoes for walking on concrete to choose suitable shoes for yourself. best nike shoes for working on concrete
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, even now a lot of businesses along with folks fight to go with a excellent guests article vendor on account of deficiency of know-how along with potential.guest post service
ReplyDeleteCNW Resources have a professional and enthusiastic team of foreign and local qualified education who provide subpar educational expertise and consultation to students.
ReplyDeleteCrowd with cowboy headgear
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteI like Your Content Really Real Awesome. Thanks For Sharing .
If Some One looking For Aluminium Pergola in Dubai . Please Do Check . We Will Be Happy. Advance Thanks To Admin
https://aluminiumpergoladubai.wordpress.com/
Programming assignment means hours of time on a computer system with specs that's really frustrated. Native Assignment help provides the services of Write My Programming Assignment in UK with experienced programmers and writers. They very well know that programming is not easy so they provide the assignment with excellent quality.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this Blog! Are you looking for Mba Assignment Help? We offer high-quality yet affordable Mba Assignment Help to students at various levels in universities across the in Australia with 5+ years experienced experts. We deliver best quality content at lowest price.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this Informative post. If you are looking for a Pergola in Dubai, you can visit this website. They offers the best pergola design in Dubai at affordable prices.
ReplyDeleteIt is really helpful, I'm also taking help from an online agency.If you're looking for the best proposal writing in the UK, go no further than SampleAssignment,who is fully equipped with high-quality tools for creating original material and detecting minor flaws. They are creating 100% plagiarism-free material and supporting students in achieving higher test scores. Check this latest post of Sample Assignment Help which is related to ESSENTIAL CONCEPTS RELATED TO ENGINEERING STUDIES
ReplyDeleteVery interesting Post. Your Post will help Peoples to learning freelancer. Pergola UAE
ReplyDeleteSuper article. I am Very impressive. This is very Helpful Thank You.wooden fence in Dubai
ReplyDeleteImpressive nice post Thank you. WPC Fence
ReplyDeleteThis post is very interesting. Domycourses is an pay someone to take my online course ware platform with a lot to offer. We provide free access to a variety of courses in various fields, including Finance, Marketing and more.
ReplyDeleteNice post keep it up. Kitchen cabinet
ReplyDeleteWith the aid of our top-rated UK dissertation writing services, you can shine in your dissertation. Guaranteed unparalleled expertise and client satisfaction.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing an informative content and I read this, such an excellent article for us. I am really liked this content and I wanna see much more posts from you like this good content.
ReplyDeletepreguntas frecuentes sobre el divorcio de nueva jersey
Great post thanks for sharing. wardrobe Dubai
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this wonderful, informative blog!
ReplyDeleteWashington County Reckless Driving
I found 'A Darker Shade Of Freelancing' an intriguing read. Just as freelancing offers unique shades of independence, a well-crafted Wooden Fence Dubai can add privacy and character to one's workspace. Thanks for shedding light on both freelancing and the value of a wooden fence.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I appreciated your article. It was a true gem in a sea of content. Thanks for standing out!
ReplyDeletewooden pergola Dubai
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteGood step you have written of writing content relating to cooperate sense. Better yet good working skills and hope you write more of this soon.Yellowstone TV Show Merchandise
ReplyDeletebitlis
ReplyDeleteurfa
mardin
tokat
çorum
N2C
https://titandijital.com.tr/
ReplyDeletenevşehir parça eşya taşıma
bolu parça eşya taşıma
batman parça eşya taşıma
bayburt parça eşya taşıma
Mİ1LW
Your article is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in learning more about Wooden Trellis. I'm sure it will be a valuable addition to the online community.
ReplyDeletebartın evden eve nakliyat
ReplyDeleteedirne evden eve nakliyat
mersin evden eve nakliyat
sinop evden eve nakliyat
siirt evden eve nakliyat
0HCFZ
van evden eve nakliyat
ReplyDeletesivas evden eve nakliyat
çankırı evden eve nakliyat
bartın evden eve nakliyat
erzincan evden eve nakliyat
RQ6ZL
Nice Blog! Nursing Assignment Help is my academic guardian angel. Their experienced team has consistently lightened my academic load and helped me excel in my nursing studies. I can't recommend them enough.
ReplyDeleteFor More Information Visit:Nursing Assignment Help
9E471
ReplyDeleteYozgat Şehir İçi Nakliyat
Kırıkkale Şehir İçi Nakliyat
Maraş Evden Eve Nakliyat
Bursa Şehir İçi Nakliyat
Mercatox Güvenilir mi
Çankırı Şehirler Arası Nakliyat
Konya Şehirler Arası Nakliyat
Çorum Şehir İçi Nakliyat
Urfa Evden Eve Nakliyat
Nice Blog! As an Australian nursing student, the tailored support from nursing assignment help in Australia has been a game-changer in my academic journey. Highly recommend for fellow students!
ReplyDeleteHats off to the author! This article is a goldmine of information. I'm grateful for the insights shared. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteAluminium Pergola Dubai
Nice Blog! Navigating the demands of nursing studies can be challenging, and Homework Help for Nursing Students becomes a valuable ally. This service provides tailored assistance, easing the academic journey. As a nursing student, the support received not only enhances understanding but also fosters confidence in tackling complex assignments. It's a transformative resource for success in the dynamic field of healthcare education.
ReplyDelete72B15
ReplyDeletereferans kodu
"Freelancing takes on a darker shade as challenges like inconsistent income, client disputes, and burnout emerge. Navigating the shadows requires resilience, time management, and clear boundaries. Freelancers must embrace self-care, diversify income streams, and prioritize mental health to thrive in the dynamic yet demanding world of independent work." "Your comment is like a burst of confetti, adding joy to our blog. Each word is a brushstroke on the canvas of conversation, creating a vibrant tapestry of ideas. We eagerly await your next insight, as your contributions light up our digital world. Thanks for being our comment superstar!" dui lawyer near me va
ReplyDeletecuál es la ley de divorcio en nueva jerseymmeline Pidgen is an illustrator creating books (picture books, chapter books, covers!), comics, advertising and editorial illustration from a cosy studio in North West England.
ReplyDeleteGreat Blog! Join the conversation on assignment help where experiences, insights, and tips collide. Dive into a community-driven dialogue that empowers academic success. Share, learn, and navigate the world of assignments together!
ReplyDeleteGreat Blog! Insightful blog on Best sop help! Navigates complexities seamlessly. The focus on precision and adaptability is spot-on. SOP Help is the key to operational brilliance. #SOPHelp 👍
ReplyDeleteE953C
ReplyDeleteKırklareli Sohbet Chat
denizli canli sohbet bedava
canlı sohbet et
canlı ücretsiz sohbet
Ağrı Tamamen Ücretsiz Sohbet Siteleri
Ağrı Yabancı Görüntülü Sohbet
elazığ bedava sohbet chat odaları
tekirdağ parasız görüntülü sohbet
zonguldak tamamen ücretsiz sohbet siteleri
892C3
ReplyDeleteBinance Neden Tercih Edilir
Binance Nasıl Oynanır
Expanse Coin Hangi Borsada
Anc Coin Hangi Borsada
Binance Nasıl Üye Olunur
Dlive Takipçi Satın Al
Sweat Coin Hangi Borsada
Parasız Görüntülü Sohbet
Arg Coin Hangi Borsada
Your post is a virtual high-five! Thanks for the uplifting content.
ReplyDeleteExtend the uplifting vibe to your garden by introducing a Wooden Pergola.
Your post provided valuable insights! Thanks for sharing. And if you're in need of space-efficient Jewelry Display solutions for your boutique, our compact designs are perfect for you.
ReplyDeleteEmpower Your Team with Our ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Training. Unlock Expertise, Ensure Compliance, and Elevate Information Security Practices. Join Now!
ReplyDelete73FB8
ReplyDeletecopy trade nedir
May 2024 Calendar
bybit
bingx
mobil 4g proxy
huobi
bingx
kraken
canli sohbet
very nice post.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.gulffab.com/sun-shades-and-swimming-pool-shades.php
The insightful content on this blog is truly exceptional! It's such a delight to discover a platform that not only imparts knowledge but also captivates its audience effortlessly. Each post feels like an exhilarating expedition into uncharted territories of wisdom, expertly presented and easily comprehensible. The commitment to making intricate topics accessible to everyone is truly admirable. I'm eagerly looking forward to delving into more enriching reads and continuing this enlightening journey together!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this amazing blog. To get a clear guidance about criminal defense lawyer newport news Our skilled legal team is here to help you.
ReplyDeletesex offender registry nychow to market yourself (and who to), and your business goals. They're all obvious things, but physically writing down those headers and making notes will be a great anchor to refer back to as your career develops. For me, as an illustrator, I've spent a long time developing my portfolio and building my presence online. In this modern tech-frenzy world, that's one of the essentials - making connections through social media and speaking with potential clients, to enable the promotion of your business as a by-product of those connections and friendships.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on being selected as a finalist! Your insights on the challenges of freelancing are invaluable. Remember, self-care is crucial. Best wishes for the awards evening and National Freelancers Day!
ReplyDeleteHow to Get A Divorce in New York State
0F942
ReplyDeletesanal show ücretli
4C22D
ReplyDeleteücretli show whatsap
E3CAE
ReplyDeleteücretli canlı şov
00CFD
ReplyDeletegörüntülü şov
divorce lawyer in northern virginiaNavigating the shadows requires resilience, time management, and clear boundaries. Freelancers must embrace self-care, diversify income streams, and prioritize mental health to thrive in the dynamic yet demanding world of independent work." "Your comment is like a burst of confetti, adding joy to our blog. Each word is a brushstroke on the canvas of conversation.A divorce attorney in Northern Virginia provides knowledge and experience in Virginia family law. They can help by: Guiding you through the legal process. Negotiating settlements.
ReplyDeleteYour post is a virtual high-five! Thanks for the uplifting content. Fairfax speeding ticket lawyer specializing in defending against speeding citations and helping you avoid penalties. fairfax speeding ticket lawyer
ReplyDeleteIf you want to get more users, you should buy Instagram likes.
ReplyDeleteE9C89C1D31
ReplyDeletesex hattı
sohbet hattı
görüntülü show
sanal seks
görüntülü sex
cam şov
sohbet hattı
seks hattı
cam show