In The Zen Freelancer, I share valuable
I want to build a community of like-minded people who support each other and are willing to share their experience and knowledge. The good news is, I’m already one step closer to achieving my dream as today I’m publishing the first article from the series “Freelance Tips With...”
My idea is to conduct interviews with freelancers who want to share their story, give useful advice and help other freelancers grow.
Today I’d like to introduce Danielle from The Breakfast Club Blog. She started fashion blogging in her early twenties, but recently she made a switch to the food topic. She’s also recently set up Ya Gals On Film, an inclusive and informal place for people to discuss films.
After years of working from 9 to 5, she started working as a freelancer. Read her story…
Why did you decide to become a freelancer?
I decided to become a freelancer after leaving my office job. I was miserable there and I wanted to do something where I could be in control of my hours and of the type of work I’m doing.
Related: What No One Tells You About Being a Freelancer
What was your job before that?
My office job was in operations, and before that, I was a retail supervisor for five years.
What’s the biggest challenge you face as a freelancer?
Managing myself and my time. It’s such a good feeling knowing you’re in control of your own time, but it’s very difficult putting that into practice.
What’s the best advice you can give to the people who’re making their first freelancing steps?
Go for it but do your research first! Take your time for finding the answers of some “boring” questions like:
- What does being self-employed mean for your taxes and income?
- Which is your niche and what is your desired rate?
- What do other freelancers have to share on the topic?
Also, save up some money to live off. This really helped me having a safety net of savings when I was getting started.
Related: Become a Successful Freelancer by Getting Into This Mindset
What would you say to the people who hate being trapped in their office from 9 to 5 but don’t see another option to make a living?
Ask yourself if making money is the most important thing to you. Because 9 to 5 is great if you want a steady, regular income. Not to say you won’t make money if you go freelance, but it will take you some time to get to a comfortable place.
If you’re genuinely feeling stuck in any job, please take a step back and consider how it’s making you feel and speak to people you can be honest and feel comfortable with.
What’s the best part of being a freelancer according to you?
Choosing my own hours, deciding what I want to work on and who to work with.
What’s the biggest mistake you’ve ever made as a freelancer?
Napping during the day and not asking clients for help or more directions when needed.
Related: The Biggest Mistakes You Can Make as a Freelancer
When are you the most productive: when working from home, from a coworking space or from a cafe? How do you stay focused?
I tend to work mainly from home but I’m looking into co-working spaces. When It comes to working in cafes, it can be a bit distracting and I always feel like I’d get more done if I was at home.
I feel like I’m most productive in the morning, I tend to run out of steam by 3 pm, so I make sure I get any bigger or important tasks done by then.
What are your best time management practices?
Don’t take naps in the day time! Seriously though, one of the best freelance tips is to make a to-do list at the start of the week and map out your days by tasks and deadlines. Also, switch off all notifications on your phone – it’s so easy to loose hours to scrolling and replying to messages.
How do you boost your productivity? And creativity?
Take a break! Write down whatever is getting to you with a pen in a journal or notebook. Go for a walk outside (something I need to start doing more!). I find it better to step away and come back refreshed.
Related: How to Beat Procrastination Once and For All
How does one of your best days look like?
A day where I get up early, get lots done, make sure I go outside and have a nice lunch, and finish by 6 pm. I like to have a little wind-down routine before bed, especially if I’ve been working on my computer all day. It includes not using my phone, taking a shower, sticking on a podcast or reading and then drifting off.
How do you stay zen?
I wouldn’t say I’m the best person at achieving zen. What helps is stepping away and taking a break, venting my feelings, and trying not to take things too seriously.
Do you want to share your story and freelance tips with The Zen Freelancer? Contact me now!
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