Freelancer’s Guide To Staying Motivated
Some helpful tips for getting you through the struggles of freelance work.
This post comes from our FP Contributer Madisyn!
Fact: My studio is down the hall, a few steps away from my comfy bed.
Fact: The struggle is sometimes very, very real.
A day in the life of me is always changing. I’m constantly being pulled in 10,000 different creative directions, switching back and forth from coffee or tea or hot chocolate or…wait, hydration is important…water. Oh, and on top of that would like to have like, a minute or so to do some hobbies or things for myself.
So, with that being said, motivation is key to my success. I need to be stimulated to keep me going at all times. Things that keep my head clear, my anxious butterflies calm,and my energy up. Here are some tips on how I’m doing it.
Rise + Shine. I wake up really early. Almost so early that it annoys other people. I’m that girl, smiling cheek to cheek at 5:30 am. I start off with some caffeine, allow myself an hour of free time, go on a walk with my pup and get ready for my day. These mornings keep me balanced, and help to start the day on a good note.
Get Dressed. I know it sounds silly. But, after a hot shower, it’s so easy to put on some pajamas when you are working from home. Don’t. Do. It. Put on an outfit that you would wear to work — for me, it’s some jeans and a tee. Staying in those pajamas will keep you feeling lazy and a little too comfortable. When I’m dressed, I’m ready to go and, in a way, mentally tricking my mind that I am going somewhere (besides down the hall) to work.
Stay Organized. Oh my. This used to be tough for me. Until that sa-weet thing below happened. I carry this with me everywhere I go — I’m truly lost without it. Because I’m usually on my own, or on the go, it’s important for me to have my stuff together in one mobile place. Keeping my planner around and laying out each week on paper helps me see the bigger picture. The more organized I am, the less distracted I get, and the more motivated I feel.
Get The Look: Mod 2 Tablet Case
Desk Space. Having an actual desk to go to when working as a freelancer is important. Knowing that I have a studio — or desk — to go to puts me straight into work mode. I make sure to keep the desk clean so I don’t get distracted by clutter. Adding a few plants to the space makes me feel happy.
Switch It Up. A change of scenery can be a breath of fresh air. Literally. Sometimes when I’m done shooting a post in my studio, I like to walk down to the coffee shop and edit pictures. It helps get my legs going, and keeps me from going stir crazy in one place while still getting some work done!
Be Inspired. Look around. What do you see? For me, I see lots of artwork and quotes. My studio is covered with a gallery wall that is inspiring and cheery. Having quotes, symbols and art around your workspace or home can help reset your creativity. I’m moved by visuals, and love keeping an eye out for something that another artist said or did.
Take breaks. Ah, last but certainly not least. Break time is important. Whether it’s the weekend, or 30 minutes at lunch. I recharge during breaks. Do something relaxing, something for you, and unwind a bit. I like to set a timer on my break so that when it’s over I can jump right back into things.
+Have any tips or tricks that help keep you motivated? Let me know in the comments!
Follow FP Madisyn on Instagram and take a peek at her blog!