Freelancing to Freedom

One of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered as a new freelancer is separating my work life from my leisure time.  The 9-5 office job I used to have allowed me to “leave my work at the office,” so to speak. The minute I left work, I wouldn’t give it a second thought. Freelancing does not afford that luxury. It takes discipline to set specific work and play hours. As I am a perfectionist about my work, it’s hard not to feel guilty about taking time to go for a walk or listen to music and just chill out. This downtime is vital to producing good work, however. Every day, I make a concerted effort to not think about my current project during my “me” time, in order to stay healthy, happy, and ultimately,  productive.