How to Establish Structure as a Freelancer
When you’re permanently ‘open for business’
One of the biggest perks of becoming a freelancer is the added freedom.
Yes, there’s still a schedule to some degree because you will be working to the expectations of a client, but you’ll also be in a stronger position to dictate the timeline of your work. Compared to most office-based peers, anyway.
Power, passion and autonomy are what draw us to freelancing. Freelancing is responsible for the growth of the gig economy; it’s why the ‘side-hustle’ was the buzzword of 2017.
People will continue to transform part-time hobbies and life-long aspirations into something a little more substantial, so we’re likely to see a hell of a lot more self-development-based content around here, too.
However, with freelancing comes risks. Instability, uncertainty and loneliness, to name a few. While people look to gain more freedom in their lives, established freelancers look to re-introduce structure and routine with the aim of creating a sense of normality.
1. HOURS & DISCIPLINE
A freelancer is not a slave to the clock. If they work at 1am, it’s because they want to.
People go into the freelancing world hoping to fully dictate their schedules. They soon find out that this isn’t the case. There’s no point sending an email at 2am if that email requires an urgent response. Freelancers continue to adhere to the 9–5 schedules of office-workers if they want to maximise output.
Regular hours are crucial for mental well-being. The working world, unlike university, allows for a ‘switch-off’ period where tasks are given, completed, and put away. At university, there really is no end to the number of hours a student can do.
Here are a couple of examples of freelancers’ routines I found online. Routine encourages discipline, structure and an end point, all of which are indispensable.
2. EXERCISE & THE OUTSIDE WORLD
Freelancers risk cooping themselves up in their homes, conflating work space with living space. People need social interaction, fresh air, and physical movement. People need fun outings.
Office workers have three core time periods for exercise — pre, mid and post-work. Freelancers have no such policy, and thus are able to exercise ‘off-peak’ in empty gyms for half the price.
3. SERVICE
A crowded market means freelancers are consistently dropping their prices to remain competitive. Approach this strategy with caution — you don’t want to appear ‘cheap’, and you want to make sure you’re able to make ends meet.
Establish your freelancing principles and know your self-worth as a valid worker. When talking to clients, outline and confirm all forms of compensation. Don’t worry about coming across as stingy — you are providing a service.
Have a base rate and stick to it. Occasionally, you’ll lower this base rate for repeat clients and friends, but don’t make a habit of it. Punctuality of payment is also critical. People will walk all over you when given the opportunity.
Lastly, work out what makes you unique. What makes you able to justify your price? Experience, portfolio, etc…
Final Comments…
Becoming a freelancer gives people an incredible opportunity to experience a sense of autonomy over a burning passion or interest. It sets people on the path to true career fulfilment, and it also has the potential to free up an incredible amount of time for extra-curricular activities and family commitments.
The key is to remember the importance of routine, discipline and growth, in addition to self-worth and quality of service.
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