While I love being a freelance writer, it comes with its own challenges, and one aspect that often gets overlooked is mental wellness. Freelancers often work in isolation, face uncertain income streams, and deal with the pressure of meeting deadlines. It’s essential to prioritize your mental well-being as a freelance writer to maintain your creativity and productivity and prevent you from experiencing burnout.
Before we dive into strategies for managing your mental wellness as a freelancer, let’s expand on the challenges freelancers experience.
Challenges of Freelance Work
Here are some reasons why freelance writing can be particularly challenging:
- Irregular Income: Projects may come and go, and payments may not always be prompt. The uncertainty of income can lead to financial stress and anxiety.
- Self-Marketing & Client Acquisition: You’re responsible for finding clients and marketing your services. This requires continuous self-promotion, networking, and pitching. It can be time-consuming and emotionally draining, especially when facing rejections or difficult clients.
- Isolation & Lack of Support: Freelancers typically work from home or remote locations, which can result in a sense of isolation.
- High Pressure & Deadlines: Freelance writers often juggle multiple projects with tight deadlines. The pressure to meet clients’ expectations, deliver high-quality work consistently, and manage time effectively can be overwhelming. This constant demand for productivity can increase stress levels.
- Scope Creep & Unclear Boundaries: Freelancers may face scope creep, where clients request additional work or revisions beyond the agreed-upon terms. This can lead to longer hours, stress, and difficulty maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Setting and enforcing clear boundaries becomes crucial to avoid burnout.
- Lack of Benefits & Job Security: Unlike traditional employment, freelance writers don’t typically receive benefits such as healthcare coverage, paid time off, or retirement plans. Additionally, ongoing work or job security is not guaranteed, which can contribute to feelings of insecurity and stress.
All these challenges, when combined, can lead to burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can manifest as decreased motivation, loss of creativity, feelings of cynicism, and a decline in overall well-being. The absence of clear work-life boundaries, the pressure to constantly perform, and the lack of support or recognition can exacerbate burnout in the freelance writing field.
6 Ways to Manage Your Mental Wellness as a Freelance Writer
Here are some effective strategies to help you manage your mental wellness and thrive in your freelance writing career.
#1 – Establish a Routine
Creating a consistent work routine can structure and stabilize your freelance writing career. Set specific working hours and stick to them as much as possible. Having a routine helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance, preventing burnout and reducing the risk of isolation. Ensure you schedule regular breaks, exercise, and time for relaxation to recharge your mind.
I try to align my working hours with my partners so we have time to spend together in the evening, and I can ride on his motivation to get to the gym.
#2 – Create a Support System
Freelancing can be a solitary profession, which can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation. Building a solid support system is crucial for your mental well-being. Connect with fellow freelance writers through networking events, online forums, or social media groups. A community of like-minded individuals who understand your challenges can provide a sense of belonging and support when needed.
I follow other freelance writers on social media and have a few I’ve connected to where we can share ideas or vent about the challenges we experience at work. Connecting with other self-employed and remote workers for ongoing support during your workday can also be helpful. Remind each other to take breaks away from the computer or go and eat something nutritious, go for a walk together on your break if you live close to one another, or sit on a call together and co-work to keep each other focused for short periods. The people around you really are your best resource for support.
#3 – Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic goals is vital for maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding unnecessary stress. Break down your larger writing projects into smaller, manageable tasks and set achievable deadlines. Celebrate your achievements along the way, no matter how small they may seem.
As an overachiever, this one can be somewhat challenging for me. But with the support of my best friend, who also works for himself, we came up with a system that usually works for me.
I often write to-do lists and break them down into weekly and daily. When working on my daily to-do list, I usually have a stretch goal; for example, I would love to accomplish these 5 tasks. But I also have a smaller goal that I consider my ‘win condition,’ meaning as long as I finish X, today is a win. Some days are harder than others; life happens, we can’t focus, and we have to let ourselves be okay with hitting the bare minimum (or sometimes taking the day off completely).
Recognize that freelancing often comes with peaks and valleys, and it’s normal to experience slower work periods. Be patient and stay focused on your long-term goals.
#4 – Practice Self-Care
Self-care is essential for your overall well-being, and as a freelance writer, it should be a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Prioritize activities that help you relax and rejuvenate. This may include practicing mindfulness or meditation, engaging in physical exercise, pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking a break from work. But self-care doesn’t always have to look like this.
If you have adult things weighing on your mind that are making it challenging to focus at work, like doing your taxes, going to the bank, or even deep cleaning your bathroom, it can be wise to take time out of your workday to get these tasks done so they don’t weigh on you.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as meeting deadlines.
#5 – Manage Your Finances
Financial concerns can be a significant source of stress for freelance writers. Uncertain income streams and irregular pay can create anxiety. Here are a few financial strategies to consider:
- Establish a budget to manage your finances effectively.
- Save for the lean months.
- Consider diversifying your income sources by taking on additional freelance projects or exploring passive income opportunities.
Financial stability can significantly reduce stress and allow you to focus on your writing.
#6 – Seek Professional Help
If you struggle with persistent feelings of anxiety, stress, or depression, it’s important to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide guidance, support, and coping strategies tailored to your needs.
I hope that by now, most of us are in a place where we don’t need to be convinced that going to therapy is helpful and that there is no shame in seeking professional help. I definitely wouldn’t be the person I am today without the support of the therapists I’ve seen over the years.
Final Thoughts on Freelance Writing and Mental Wellness
Prioritizing your mental wellness as a freelance writer is vital for success and happiness. By establishing a routine, building a support system, setting realistic goals, practicing self-care, managing your finances, and seeking professional help, you can address the unique challenges of freelance writing while maintaining your mental well-being.
Remember, a healthy mind is the foundation for a fulfilling and sustainable freelance writing career. Take care of yourself, and let your creativity thrive.