One of the things I love most about being a freelancer is choosing my own work hours. However, I’ve learned quickly that routine is vital, even with a flexible schedule.
I’ve always been a morning person; my most productive work usually happens between the hours of 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. Because I still have to work as a server part-time, however, this can sometimes be an issue. Sometimes my shifts are in the middle of the day, other times they start late afternoon (which is ideal). The other day I decided to sit down at my favourite coffee shop after a shift to do some editing (around 4 p.m.). After finishing my tea and staring at my computer screen for about half an hour, I gave up and went home. Afternoons = poor productivity.
The good news is, I can start being productive again around 7 p.m. and work a few hours into the evening. So for now, working random hours when I know I am productive will have to do. The ultimate goal though is to stop relying on serving altogether in the next year or so. It can be difficult to go from working alone and focusing intensely on a project I’m passionate about to working with other people and having to put my best face forward for customers.
Don’t get me wrong, I am grateful to have a job that pays the bills. It’s also a very positive work environment. It’s just not my passion, and I don’t like having divided loyalties.
How about you? When are you most productive? If you have a “pays the bills” kind of job, how do you balance your time?
Freelancing to Freedom 
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