As freelancers we spend a lot of our time alone at home or in our office, working with people we may never meet face to face, sometimes we never even hear their voice. It could be weeks at a time before we leave the house.
Having virtual friends and colleagues from all over the world is great, but there comes a time when we need to be around real people, no matter how introvert we are. Humans are after all social creatures!
So What Can You Do To Beat The Freelancing Blues?
1. Set yourself a schedule
Having a schedule is very important as a freelancer, allowing you to keep track of your days work and schedule appointments. It can also help you to split your day between “client time” and “me time”. Limit the amount of hours you spend working and stick too them, that way you can spend more time with your friends and family.
2. Keep In Touch
Keep in touch with your friends and be sure to contact them often. Pick up the phone and have a chat with people in the “real world” and while you’re at it arrange to meet up for a cup of coffee and a chat in your favourite cafe. Skype is a great tool for keeping in touch with friends and family abroad. I use it every week to chat with my father and my brother who are currently at the other side of the world!
3. Get Out Of The House
Turn off the PC, put on your coat and give yourself a change of scenery. If you really need to get some work done why not go to a local wi-fi spot such as a cafe, restaurant or local library with your laptop. Sometimes a change is as good as a rest. Really
4. Join A Forum
Do you have a hobby that you really love? Did you just finish reading a great book? What about chatting with other freelancers in your niche? Whatever your interest there is a forum out there for you. Forums are a great resource to meet and chat with other like – minded people.
5. Get Some Exercise
Exercise is great for getting you out of the house, why not take a stroll to your local cafe the next time you need a caffeine, or even you can even do your exercise at home ( I use this game on the Wii and I highly recommend it). Exercise will give you more energy and will get the creative juices flowing so get your heart pumping!
I find that these little tips help me when I start to feel a bit lonely or down in the dumps. What do you do to perk yourself up when you are feeling a bit blue? Comment below!
