How to Stay Motivated as a Freelancer

Freelancers, whether writers, photographers or otherwise, may find times where motivation is lacking. Subject to rejections, irregular work patterns and creative blocks, there may be times when you feel like throwing in the towel. While these tips are directed towards writers in particular, many should help you stay motivated as a freelancer in any creative capacity.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take stock of your schedule and assess what troubles you most. If needed, create an editorial calender to schedule your work. Aim to reduce imbalances from lack of work or overwork.

2. Accept jobs that are worth your time and talent to stay motivated as a freelancer. While writers are notoriously underpaid, and may sometimes need to work for a pittance, avoid working long stretches at substandard rates. This may lead you to resent your passion and reduce your confidence.

3. Stay motivated as a freelancer by forcing yourself to take breaks and engage in other hobbies and interests. Not only will this help your mental well-being, the renewed spirit will show in your work. If you're on top of your game the improved production may lead to better opportunities.

4. Try something new. If your work isn't fulfilling or no longer offers a challenge, this lends towards the freelancer blues. Whether it's a new genre, volunteer work, wetting your feathers at poetry or a new topic you'd like to research, give it your best and see where it leads.

5. Learn how to put rejection in perspective and counteract its effects. While thick skin helps many stay motivated as a freelancer, it can take a while to develop, if it does at all. Read accounts of famous writers or heroes whom have overcome the odds or try affirmations and hypnosis—whatever inspires you to keep trying.

6. Learn from rejections. This can be difficult but it will go along way towards increasing your skills if you can take constructive criticism and apply it. Join a writers' club or forum, or take a class, whatever it takes to reach your proficiency goals. Just remember that rejection isn't personal and most anyone is subject to improvements.

7. Keep your goals in the forefront to best stay motivated as a freelancer. Make them real and meaningful to you. Paying the bills is essential but it is not the most inspirational goal to keep in mind. Think of other tangible and intangible benefits such as relief from financial worry, taking a vacation or making a difference in someone's life.

8. Allow yourself to feel the blues once in awhile as it is natural. Veg out and take some days for just you as needed and avoid thinking about work when you do. Don't extend the break too long though or it may be harder to keep on track.

9. Balance your time. Many freelancers need to self-promote as well as perform administrative tasks. Create a schedule that allows for all these requisites. Learn about new tools, technology or outsourcing to become more efficient, therefore reducing your burdens.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't force what isn't there. To stay motivated as a freelancer it often takes a real passion and love for what you do. Doubts do occur but it's good to assess how you really feel about your profession.
• Work smart, not just hard. Network with other veteran freelancers for tips and tricks of the trade.

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