How to Avoid Burnout as a Freelance Writer

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By Jennifer Glennon
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Article Rating: (6 Ratings)

When it comes to working as a freelance writer, there is a higher possibility of hitting a burnout period then with most professions. As freelance writers, we tend to be our own bosses, which has its good and bad sides. Many freelance writers are harder on themselves then anyone else would be. Freelance writers will work longer hours and later into the night then people who have to punch a time clock. This is a recipe for burnout as a freelance writer. There are things that you can do to avoid this trap.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Schedule a finish time to your day as a freelance writer. Many freelance writers hit burnout because they continue to work all day without a clear set finish time. This will keep you from giving up time with family and friends as a freelance writer. To do this, you will have to make sure that you keep track of all deadlines that you have so that you will not have to do any all nighters to make deadlines.
Step 2

Give yourself a vacation from time to time as a freelance writer. One of the reasons that most people become a freelance writer is for the flexibility. Take advantage of this and take a vacation often from your writing career. Your vacation can be a week or even an extended weekend away. This will help to relieve any stress and frustration that you feel and will help you to avoid burnout as a freelance writer.
Step 3

Change the scenery in which you write to avoid burnout. Grab your laptop and head outside or head to a local coffee shop to do some of your writing. This simple change of where you sit down at can be one of the most helpful things that you can do as a freelance writer.

Resources

Freelance Writing 101

Comments

karenzo said

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on 4/25/2009 Needed this article today! Thanks! I am taking a break by reading articles about freelancing. Does that count? :)

mrasey said

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on 4/23/2009 This is great advice on how to avoid burnout as a freelance writer. I'm new and have just started writing, if you have time to rate me or recommend me, I would be grateful. Thanks! M

polvati said

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on 4/20/2009 Great tips. It's way too easy to burnout freelancing if you just stay at home all the time and work. Money's important, but you're not going to make any money if you can't think. 5*

MegapixelPro said

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on 2/9/2009 I love this. It's so funny, cause my family doesn't understand why I would want to take a weekend or go to the diner alone. Great article!