CREATIVITY IN BLACK & WHITE
My Biggest Struggles As A Freelance Writer & Author, Working A 9–5
And practical solutions to tackle each
Sincerely, life as a freelance writer is not a sweetened chocolate cake. It is bittersweet, especially at the beginning.
When I ditched my soul armor and launched into freelancing, nobody prepared me for everything I had to dig through to find a balance in my craft.
It was a lot, but I learned hard lessons in my journey that helped me deal with my struggles.
Let's dive in!
My biggest struggles as a freelance writer & author, working 9- 5, and my practical advice to writers struggling with the same things
1. Poor Work-life balance
Consciously draw a thick line between your 9–5 and your personal life. As much as possible, leave work at work so that you can stay present at home.
2. Attempting Multiple Projects Without Finishing Any
Multitasking isn’t productivity. Pick a project you’re highly invested in, tackle it, and finish it before moving to the next.
3. Overthinking & Dealing With Feelings Of Loneliness
Overthinking negatively is mentally draining, so channel your mental energy toward more positive and fulfilling thoughts.
Also, you’re not alone. Spend time with yourself, friends, and family. Call, text, visit. It’s up to you.
4. Unclear Distinction Between Creative & Personal Time
Schedule your creative time differently from your personal time.
For me:
— 9 am to 5 pm: Work time
— 6 pm to 8:30 pm: Personal time.
— 8: 30 pm to 2: 30 am: My Bedtime.
— 2:30 am to 6 am: My Creative time.
5. Dealing With Doubts & Frustrations
Doubts and frustrations are a part of the creative game. Embrace it instead of trying to erase it.
6. Allowing FOMO To Drive My Endeavors Instead Of My Interest
FOMO is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s how you handle the urge that matters. Try new things if it aligns with your interest. If it doesn’t, ignore them with guilt.
7. Struggling With Feelings Of Unworthiness
You are worthy. Your art is worthy. You’ve got what it takes to achieve what you want. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
8. Neglecting My Self-care & Forgetting To Breathe
Creating art is beautiful, but if the vessel that creates the art is weak, everything else won’t matter. Take self-care seriously.
9. Dealing With Insomnia, Mood swings & Tiredness
Train your body to crave sleep. Learn the shutdown process. Use music, podcasts, meditation, storytelling, audiobooks, and guided meditation to lure your body to sleep.
I hope this helps.
Endnotes:
— As a writer working 9–5, what else do you struggle with?
I’ll advise as best as I can from my experience.
Hi, I’m Jane. I enjoy sharing personal essays and intriguing, relatable topics on creativity.
Thank you for reading my piece. I hope you’ll share your thoughts on it.
