For many, the dream of working without fixed schedules, without a boss looking over our shoulder, and pursuing our dreams is a reason to start a business or company. However, not everyone has the necessary resources to start their business at 100%, so starting as a freelance is the only option.
Although you will be one step closer to realizing your dreams and working on what you are passionate about, being a freelancer means not having a fixed salary, company benefits, and likely not having all the equipment you would have in a larger organization (machinery, internet, phone calls, stationery, etc).
Therefore, to make it to the end of the month without going into debt with half of your acquaintances and family members, it is important to have discipline and focus so that you can be productive 60% of the day and really advance your work project.
Here are some tips that can help you organize yourself:
- Create a work routine. Being a freelancer does not mean spending half the day in bed, watching television, or going for walks. You need to set schedules to perform all your personal and work activities so that you do not waste time, avoid staying up late, and most importantly, have your work delivered on time.
- Assign the tasks that seem heaviest during your most creative and productive hours.
- Stay away from distractions, especially if you work from home. If it is difficult to find a place in your home where you do not have constant distractions, renting an office space by the hour or working from a café might be a good option.
- Make a list of activities that you need to perform to start your business and give them a priority. Similarly, if you have already started working on projects, assign delivery dates and times, and keep the list in a visible place as a reminder.
- Dedicate some time to courses or diplomas that will help you improve the tools and capabilities you already have to start your business. You could also take the opportunity to specialize in an area that allows you to offer an advantage to your future clients.
- Review your monthly fixed expenses and analyze which ones you can cut back on to use your money more efficiently. Remember that you do not have a fixed salary, so administration and saving will be key to working with peace of mind.
- Relax and include some physical or leisure activity in your work schedule. Spending long hours in front of a computer reduces your concentration and productivity.
As you can see, being a freelancer is not as simple as it seems, but sometimes it is the only way we have to start pursuing our dreams. If you have already started or are about to start and need help organizing your work and reaching out to clients, contact me!
Here are some books that could help you working as a freelance:
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries: This book offers valuable insights into how to start a business from scratch and turn your idea into a successful company.
- The 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss: This book provides a comprehensive guide to optimizing your time and maximizing your income as a freelancer.
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: A classic self-help book that can help freelancers develop the habits and skills necessary to be productive and successful.
- The Freelancer's Bible by Sara Horowitz: This book provides a comprehensive guide to starting and running a successful freelance business, covering everything from finding clients to managing finances.
- The Art of Client Service by Robert Solomon: This book is a must-read for any freelancer looking to build long-lasting, productive relationships with clients.
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: This book focuses on the importance of living in the present moment, which is essential for maintaining balance and staying focused as a freelancer.
