4 Survival Tips for Freelancers During Difficult Times

Tips-for-Freelancers-During-Difficult-Times

Freelancing is how so many hard-working people make a living. Whether you’re a college student or recent graduate, an artist, or someone who prefers to make their own schedule, freelancing can be a wonderful alternative to the traditional 9 to 5.

With the advantages that accompany freelance work, there are also some downsides. When the market is unstable, it can be difficult to find freelance gigs. In terms of benefits like health insurance and a 401k, freelance jobs leave you to fend for yourself. If your freelance career has recently experienced a downturn, don’t fret. You’re not alone, you’ll get through this, and you’ll learn something along the way.

See below for 4 tips we’ve compiled to help you get through a difficult time:

1. Create a Budget

 Create-a-BudgetBuilding a budget can be tricky, especially during a time of financial hardship. You want to save money, but you don’t want to restrict yourself to the point of misery. In order to find balance, start with fixed expenses you can count on each month.

Fixed expenses include:

  • Rent
  • Utility bills
  • Car payments
  • Student loans

When starting a budget, these are factors you absolutely must include. Once you’ve determined how much money must be allocated each month for these necessities, you can move on to other categories.

Two big areas where you can scale down your costs include:

  • Food – Create a meal plan that incorporates affordable food options. Figure out which grocery store near you offers the lowest prices and do your shopping there—you can use an app like Basket for this. If you’re not a vegetarian, consider trying meatless Mondays. Swapping meat for plant-based meals is a great way to save some money on food. Avoid costly take-out meals during difficult financial periods—bring the restaurant home and make dinner for half the cost.
  • Entertainment – If you’re spending money on entertainment, look for ways to cut back. Consider sharing a streaming service—like Netflix or Hulu—with a friend or roommate and splitting the cost. Avoid expensive theater tickets and opt for movie nights-in with loved ones. 

2. Branch Out

If your current clients have pulled away, don’t be afraid to look for work elsewhere. The internet is a great way for freelancers to find new work and keep their income flowing, even with one-time gigs.

Try to use platforms like Fiverr to find supplemental work.

Remember, a job doesn’t have to be your career. During times of financial hardship, it’s okay to branch out and explore different ways of making money. Building a resume is great, but paying the bills is important too. Once you’ve earned enough to get back on your feet, you’ll be able to jump right back into the work you love.

3. Find a Way to Relax

woman-trying-MeditationStress is terrible for the body, and too much of it can result in costly health problems. Avoid a trip to the doctor and make sure you’re taking care of your body during this difficult time.

  • Exercise – If you can’t afford a costly gym membership, try taking a walk or run around the block. Exercise is a great stress reliever, and so many aerobic workouts can be done outside. Don’t be fooled into thinking you need to pay high monthly costs to stay healthy.
  • Natural Remedies – Try some affordable, natural stress relievers. CBDfx capsules are a great option for calming anxiety. Herbal teas, like chamomile, can also help with relaxation and even relieve sleeplessness, which many people facing financial hardship struggle with.
  • Try Meditation – Meditation is the most affordable way to calm stress. Whether you’re in bed, walking around, or sitting down, meditation can be done virtually anywhere. If you’re new to meditation, but don’t want to spend money on an expensive class, try a free mindfulness app to help you find your peace.  

4. Shift to Remote Work

With COVID-19 changing business as we know it, your freelance gigs have probably felt the impact. If your craft is typically done in person, try to find a way to utilize working remotely.

For artists, this can be done pretty easily. Using digital art software, posting pieces for sale online, or offering custom work on social media sites can all be done right from home.

With companies shifting to remote work, you’d be surprised how much demand there is for different types of freelancers.

Musicians will have a harder time switching to remote work, but with everyone trapped inside, even concerts are being live streamed. See if any local venues are putting on Zoom concerts and try your best to get in touch with them.

You’ll Get Through This

A rough patch is not the end of your freelance career. Be mindful of how you’re reacting to stress, explore new avenues to find work, and use natural stress relievers like CBD and exercise to quell your anxiety.

One day, you’ll celebrate your resilience. For now, keep on keeping on. You’ve got this!

Article Submitted By Community Writer

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