8 Ways to Stop Procrastination as a Freelancer
Beat Procrastination While Working from Home or Remotely with These Tips
In the world of freelance work, where most freelancers operate from the comfort of their homes and set their own schedules, managing procrastination can be a common challenge!
The allure of flexible hours or working whilst traveling often comes hand in hand with the temptation to delay tasks. This is why time management and productivity are more critical than ever for freelancers. Whether you find yourself constantly battling the urge to procrastinate or just want to fine-tune your productivity game, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, we’ll explore eight actionable ways to help you manage procrastination effectively and make the most out of your freelance journey.
1. Set Clear Goals and Priorities
Freelance success often begins with setting clear goals and priorities. Without a roadmap for your workday, it’s easy to drift into procrastination territory. So, make it a habit to define your daily objectives and prioritize tasks effectively.
One useful strategy is the “Eat the Frog” concept, where you tackle the most challenging task first thing in the morning.
By addressing your hardest tasks head-on, you not only boost your sense of accomplishment but also prevent wasting hours on bad habits. Remember, a well-defined path can lead you away from the pitfalls of procrastination and towards a more rewarding freelance career.
2. Create a Daily Schedule
Creating a daily schedule can be a game-changer for freelancers looking to curb procrastination. Without structure, it’s easy to find yourself spending hours on unproductive or even downright boring tasks.
So, make a regular habit of planning out your workday. Set specific times for various work-related activities, breaks, and even those essential administrative tasks.
By following a routine, you’ll not only stop procrastinating but also boost your overall productivity, turning your freelance work into a well-oiled machine.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
One great tip to battle procrastination is to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps. Many freelancers find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer size of a project or a particular task, leading to procrastination!
To tackle this, take a cue from other freelancers who’ve mastered time management. Divide those important jobs into smaller, actionable steps. Making more of what little time you have is how you can really level up and increase your freelancing income.
Not only does this make the work feel less daunting, but it also provides you with a clear roadmap, helping you stay on track and avoid procrastination pitfalls.
4. Utilize Time Management Tools
Staying organized and on top of your tasks is crucial, whether you’re working with an important client, a blog post, project revisions, a YouTube video, or any other task. To help combat procrastination and ensure you complete projects for your clients on time as a self-employed freelancer, consider utilizing time management and productivity apps.
These tools can be a freelancer’s best friend, offering features like task lists, project tracking, and reminders to help you stay focused and on track.
By integrating such apps into your business routine, you can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and minimize the temptation to procrastinate. You should also pay attention to the rise in AI freelancer tools to help you stop procrastinating!
5. Minimize Distractions
As a freelancer, it’s easy to fall prey to distractions, especially when working from home. Common culprits like social media, household chores, or the ever-tempting call of your smartphone can lead you astray from your work tasks. To combat these distractions, consider creating a designated workspace that’s free from such diversions.
If possible, working in a co-working space or a coffee shop can also help boost focus and productivity by eliminating the distractions that lurk at home.
Establishing good habits and creating your own ‘phone-free zone’ during work hours can further minimize disruptions, allowing you to stay motivated and on track with your projects.
6. Set Deadlines and Stick to Them
One of the keys to combating procrastination is setting and adhering to self-imposed deadlines. Freelancers often have the flexibility to create their own schedules, which can be a double-edged sword! While this freedom is liberating, it also demands strong discipline.
Start by establishing realistic deadlines for your projects, and treat them with the same level of importance as you would for client-imposed ones. If you’re going to struggle to meet a deadline, why not outsource to another freelancer using Revolancer’s service exchange feature?
To ensure you meet these deadlines consistently, consider using techniques like the Pomodoro method or task-specific timers. These strategies can help you stay focused, break down your work into manageable chunks, and complete tasks on schedule.
7. Practice Self-Care
Self-care for freelancers is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in battling procrastination and maintaining productivity.
Remember, you’re not a productivity machine; you’re a human being with ups and downs. When you take care of your physical and mental well-being, you’re better equipped to tackle tasks efficiently.
Acknowledge your previous successes, and don’t let self-doubt or imposter syndrome creep in. Practice a balanced lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise, proper nutrition, and quality sleep into your routine. Find time for activities you enjoy outside of work to recharge your creativity and motivation. A well-rested and fulfilled freelancer is better equipped to manage their time effectively and combat procrastination! Check this out if if you’re worried about how to take breaks or holidays as a freelancer.
8. Seek Out an Accountability Partner
Consider finding an accountability partner to boost your productivity and keep procrastination at bay. When you have someone to check in with regularly, it can provide that extra motivation to stay on track.
Accountability partners can help you set goals, track progress, and share tips to overcome procrastination. On Revolancer, you can connect with other freelancers who understand the challenges you face in your line of work.
They can serve as excellent accountability partners and provide valuable insights and support to help you maintain focus and meet your freelance goals!
Before You Go
Don’t forget the support of fellow freelancers on Revolancer to keep you motivated and on track. It’s time to take charge of your time, stay focused, and achieve your freelancing goals.
Join Revolancer to supercharge your freelance career, connect with a supportive community, and make your dreams a reality!
Have you signed the #Ban9to5 petition yet? Read more here on our campaign for career freedom and take action now.
For further reading, check out 20+ Essential Marketing Tools Every Freelancer Needs and Best Online Side Hustles for Students.
Freelance marketplace: Revolancer