Remote Working: How to Keep Your Sanity as a Freelancer
Remote working offers fantastic benefits like flexibility, reduced travel time and costs, and a positive impact on the environment. It can also improve your health, well-being, productivity, and work-life balance - only if you approach it correctly. It's easy to fall into bad habits, like working in bed or never leaving the house. While these practices might feel nice occasionally, they aren't great for your mental health or productivity.
To stay sane while working remotely as a freelancer, here are some essential tips:
Build a Healthy Routine
A healthy routine is key to thriving in a remote work environment. It keeps you organised, productive, and mentally balanced. Here are a few ways to build a healthy routine:
Set clear working hours: Decide when you will work. 9-5, 10-6, or whatever fits your lifestyle. While freelancing gives you flexibility, setting boundaries prevents overworking and burnout. Clear work hours also leave time for hobbies, socialising, or just relaxing.
Take breaks: Schedule regular breaks, including a substantial lunch break. One study found that Workers who regularly take breaks have 13% higher productivity than those who don't. Breaks help refresh your mind and boost motivation.
Plan your free time: Use your non-working hours to change your environment and stay active. One study found that physical activity during non-working time can increase employee productivity by 12-15%. A healthy morning and evening routine, like a walk before work or a skincare regimen at night, helps your brain switch between work and relaxation modes.
Unplug after hours: When your workday ends, unplug and tidy your workspace. Seeing work reminders while you're cooking dinner or relaxing can make it hard to fully switch off.
Tidy Space = Tidy Mind
A clean, organised workspace reduces stress and enhances focus. If you can, invest in your desk setup - consider a monitor or a new mouse. A less expensive option would be a houseplant - one study found that office workers were 15% more productive after plants were introduced into their workspace. Investing in your space is likely to make a difference.
Also, avoid working from your bed or sofa. Mixing work and relaxation spaces can make it harder to relax when off-duty and focus when on the clock. This applies to your appearance as well; dressing for work, even at home, can boost your productivity and mindset. One study showed that by wearing a suit or smart attire, people felt more productive (52%), decisive (59%) and authoritative (78%).
Romanticise the Little Things
Adding small pleasures to your workday can make remote work more enjoyable. Mindfully enjoy a cup of coffee, make a delicious breakfast, or listen to your favourite music while you work. With remote work, there are no rules - you can create an experience tailored to you and personalise your environment.
Get Out of the House
While it has many benefits, one downside of remote work is potential isolation. It's essential to break away from your home environment, whether during work hours or after.
A few ways to get out of the house before or after work include:
Going for a walk, run, or gym session.
Having a meal with friends or family.
Attending a workout class or social event.
Take advantage of remote work's flexibility by working from a coffee shop or a co-working space. Being around people, even without direct interaction, can boost your mental health. If possible, consider working remotely from another city or country. It’s a great way to explore new places while maintaining your income, and a change of scenery can greatly improve your work quality.
Join Communities
To combat feelings of isolation, join communities of remote workers, either in-person or online. Engaging with others who understand your situation can provide support and camaraderie. You could also join local clubs or groups, like book clubs or fitness classes, to connect with others and add variety to your daily routine.
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