When freelancing, it can sometimes be easy to feel overwhelmed with all the tasks required to keep your business running and profitable.
However, as well as the business side of things, it’s essential you take care of your physical and mental health too. After all, if you are a solopreneur, you are the business. Taking good care of your business includes being mindful of your well-being and applying self-care practices.
So, to help avoid freelancer burnout and keep yourself energized and in the right frame of mind, here are 5 things you can do to help boost your mind, body, and spirit when working as a freelancer.
1. Co-work and network with other freelancers
Freelancing can feel isolating at times, which can have a detrimental effect on mental health.
If you are a remote worker and don’t get to experience much face-to-face networking and feel a bit isolated, consider getting together with some business buddies and doing some regular group working sessions online; alternatively, book yourself a day a week in a co-working space.
Likewise, if you are likely to be disturbed or prone to being distracted at home, working in a co-working space and socializing with other fellow workers can be a rewarding experience. Plus, you get to do your work and network. It’s a win-win all round!
Getting together with other freelancers and like-minded folk can help you put things into perspective, problem solve, and provide a nice balance to your working life.
Other freelancers can be a great source of support and inspiration for your business who you can bounce ideas off and learn from. Just because you are a solopreneur doesn’t mean you always have to go it alone.
2. Plan something nice to look forward to
Planning a vacation or a short break away to relax and recharge can be a great mood booster and give you something enjoyable to look forward to.
But don’t just stop there – you can also plan other treats. They don’t have to be on a grand scale. Maybe a day off to pursue your favorite hobby or simply a pamper day at home.
You’ll be surprised how planning treats and ‘you time’ throughout the year can boost your mood and productivity.
Take time out to remember why you went freelance in the first place. It most likely wasn’t so you could work more hours and have less freedom to spend quality time with loved ones.
3. Get paid on time
Who doesn’t like getting paid?
Even better if you can get paid within moments of sending out your invoice.
Getting paid late can play havoc with your freelance cash flow, which just adds more stress on you and uncertainty on your business finances, so it’s important that you send out accurate, timely invoices and, in return, get paid on time.
And, in case you were wondering, getting paid quickly and efficiently is not a myth. It does happen!
You can make this a reality by using top-notch invoice software like Invoice Ninja.
It’s got some super client-friendly features such as multiple payment gateways, free professional invoice templates, client-side portals, time tracking for tasks and projects, super fast email invoicing, automatic payment reminders and much more so you can send invoices at the click of 1-button and get paid fast and on time.
Try it for free here.
Focus on doing what you love. We’ll help with the invoicing.
4. Take frequent breaks and get out in nature
Taking regular breaks throughout the day can really boost your mental state as well as supercharge your creativity, not to mention the physical benefits of something like a good lunchtime walk.
If, for whatever reason, you can’t get outside for a breath of fresh air or a super sunshine vitamin D hit, then schedule time to get up from your workspace and do something different. Read a page of a book, prepare a healthy snack, or even have a power nap.
But, if you can get out in nature and go for a walk, then do. You might even want to consider rucking – the practice of walking with a weighted rucksack on your back, grounding (also known as earthing) – placing your bare feet on natural ground and connecting with the earth, or even working out outdoors – doing some CrossFit training, cycling, running, etc.
All these activities can really super boost your mood, health and well-being.
5. Practice Inner work
To bring balance and inner harmony to your life, consider taking up yoga, adding a meditation practice to your daily routine or even journaling.
All these things can contribute to a more balanced freelance lifestyle when incorporated into your daily routine.
If none of these suggestions vibe with you then find out what does make you feel more centered and grounded and improves your mental state. It could be a daily walk with your dog, dabbling in arts and crafts, getting creative in the kitchen, listening to relaxing music or following a daily health and fitness routine.
You could even incorporate an inspirational and empowering daily mantra into your day.
Whatever you decide to do, ensure you add healthy habits to your day and prioritize your well-being.
It will be more than worth it for you and your freelance business.
