How to Tame Your Workload as a Freelancer

Keep your clients happy while reducing your stress.

It’s easy for freelancers to feel buried under the weight of their workloads.

Sometimes, it’s not even the deliverables, but it’s everything else that comes with managing projects and a freelance business. This can be especially true for new freelancers who may not have good systems in place or know how to set boundaries with clients.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are some ways to rein in the chaos and keep your freelance life on a more even keel.

Make Your Tools Work for You

I’m a huge advocate for project management tools. As a former product manager and a successful freelancer for several years, I see their value. However, in talking with other freelancers, I find that they’re reluctant to implement tools. Part of it is cost — not wanting to pay for something, especially in the early days. The other part is not seeing how project management tools can benefit them.

But I also recommend using some type of project management tool as early as possible, since the last thing you want to do is add a new tool when you’re drowning in client work.

I never recommend a specific tool, even though I’m often asked about my preferences. The truth is, there’s no shortage of tools on the market, each working a bit differently. This variety exists because people think and plan in different ways. Your tools should match how you organize your work.

Some people prefer detailed task lists for every project, while others (like myself) prefer a high-level overview. Managing things on a spreadsheet just isn’t sustainable long-term. Eventually, your work will become too complicated to track without proper tools.

Additionally, clients may want a shared view of the work you’re doing, which will necessitate a client-facing tool. For example, I use Trello. While my overall deliverables are managed on a private Trello board, I also have shared boards with clients for collaboration.

Try out different tools and envision how they would work with double your current workload. The tools I use have worked well for me as my business grows, and I’ve made…