Keeping it together: Lessons learned from my first year as a freelancer

You’re taking the plunge into freelancing? That’s amazing! Those first steps can feel like a leap into the abyss. You don’t know what’s coming, you don’t know if it will work out, and, possibly for the first time ever, you have to tell other people that you’re good at what you do. Terrifying.

There are millions of practical resources at your fingertips, and, like most, I’ve spent hours researching. However, many of us have more trouble finding information about how to take care of ourselves through this transition. So, in this post, I’m reflecting on some self-care lessons learned as a freelancer from my early days of self-employment. These tips may not work for everyone all of the time, but some might resonate with you.

1. Connect.

Connection with others is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, whether you are an introvert, extrovert,  or ambivert.

When you begin freelance work, you might feel isolated, especially if, like me, you live alone. It can be helpful to incorporate time in your schedule to spend with others in social or professional contexts.

ScribeConcepts, for example, uses the messaging app Slack to create a collaborative space with other consultants. You can ask questions, get tips, and be part of a company where freelancers are valued. LinkedIn is a great way to find jobs, network with other professionals, and keep up with industry trends. There are countless social media groups and opportunities to meet people locally. I met some fellow freelancers in Glasgow and it really brought home to me that I wasn’t alone. Workdays in coffee shops, bistros, or libraries, where others often come to connect with the outside world.

2. Plan for ebbs and flows.

Anticipate dry spells. When the work isn’t coming in, your applications aren’t earning attention, and those courageous cold emails remain unanswered, it can be hard not to sound the alarm. 

I still struggle with this: If things are looking a bit empty over a few months, the anxiety starts to flutter. I worry that recent work may have been subpar and no one told me. I worry that I’m not good enough.

These are the times I remember this is not personal. The freelance market is saturated, and sometimes publishers are inundated. Although they'd like to give everyone a personal response, it's likely there just isn't time to do so.

Track slow periods and have a plan for them. If you’re in one, try not to panic. Prioritize self-care, the administrative time you have been missing, and looking for new business connections. It’s going to be okay. 

Make time for financial planning. It can be a boring task, but there are tremendous benefits to having a plan for the ebbs and flows of freelance work. In my first months, I was surviving invoice to invoice. It might be unavoidable to begin with, but as soon as you can, begin putting money aside. Some publishers have long payment windows, so you might have to wait some time to get paid. Work out how much you need to survive, and have a back-up plan. Over time, methodical saving will help you thrive. Starting a brand-new business is tough, and you might need an alternative source of income until you find your flow. 

3. Listen and learn.

The first time you receive feedback can be crushing. But, remember, a high-quality product is the end goal. If you’re receiving feedback, the client is investing time in you. They want you to succeed.

As one of my earliest clients, ScribeConcepts was incredibly helpful. Their patience and actionable comments made me a better copyeditor and proofreader, and those skills will stay with me forever. Use feedback to hone your skills and talk to other freelancers about how to incorporate a client's recommendations.

4. Have a plan.

Make time for financial planning. It can be a boring task, but there are tremendous benefits to having a plan for the ebbs and flows of freelance work. In my first months, I was surviving invoice to invoice. It might be unavoidable to begin with, but as soon as you can, begin putting money aside. Some publishers have long payment windows, so you might have to wait some time to get paid. Work out how much you need to survive, and have a back-up plan. Over time, methodical saving will help you thrive. Starting a brand-new business is tough, and you might need an alternative source of income until you find your flow. 

5. Get plenty of rest.

Saying no doesn’t come easy. In my first year, I ran myself absolutely ragged. I said yes to everything because I feared running out of work. It didn't run out! I worked wild hours for six months and nearly burned out. Schedule days – or even half-days – away from the “office.” Take advantage of holidays. Notify colleagues and clients that you'll be turning off for a brief period. Turn off email and other notifications while you rest. You’ll be better at your job for it.

6. Reward yourself.

Generally, people find it challenging to tout their achievements. While it might make us cringe to announce what is going well, no one else is going to do it on your behalf.  Keep a folder in your email inbox for positive feedback. When the fear hits, read a few pieces to reassure yourself. 

Treat yourself when you manage something big. Got that white whale of a project over the line? Hit the cake. Signed an exciting client you can’t wait to work with? Do something you love! When my business turned a year old, I had a party for friends and family. I ordered a giant blue cake because I could. Noting both big and small successes will remind you of how far you’ve come.

7. Think about tomorrow.

Maybe the endless developmental chats were one of the reasons you fled the office. But it can be rewarding and exciting to think seriously about what you want from your freelancing career. Have a personal development plan in mind; implement your plan when the workload is quieter. When I was able, I put money aside and I’m now using that money to fund  part-time creative writing Master’s studies. This enhances my professional skills as I make personal connections. It doesn’t have to be as big as a Master’s, though. It could be a short course, a micro-certification, an app, or even a trip. You’ve never had more control over where you’re going!

About ScribeConcepts

At ScribeConcepts, we know the power of skilled freelancers in the publishing world. Our network of expert content developers, editors, project managers, and designers is ready to take on a variety of projects, from curriculum development to publishing production. If you're looking for experienced professionals to bring your project to life—or if you're a freelancer interested in joining a team that values expertise and collaboration—we’d love to hear from you.

Let’s build something great together. Contact us today to learn more!

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Siobhán Murphy is an editorial consultant for ScribeConcepts.