From the outside looking in, living the freelance life might look like a dream.
There is no one to tell you when to start working in the morning, no one to tell you that you need to work late, and no one bossing you around throughout the course of the day.
But in reality, freelancers often face a long list of challenges that can frustrate them if they’re not careful. One of the biggest challenges is trying to stay organized while still remaining productive.
Here are 5 tips that will help you stay more organized if you live life as a freelancer.
1. Set Up a Schedule at the Start of Every Day
As a freelancer, you don’t have to stick to a rigorous schedule like you would have to if you were working at a 9-5. You have the ability to be a little more flexible when it comes to scheduling.
But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to set up a schedule at all. If you want to stay organized, get into the habit of creating goals for yourself at the beginning of every day and set up a schedule to achieve them.
You’ll feel better at the end of the day when you know that you accomplished something.
2. Create Time Limits for the Tasks You Need to Complete
When you’re freelancing, you usually won’t have someone breathing down your neck asking you when you’re going to be finished with a task. You can work at your own pace and take breaks when you want to.
But try to come up with a realistic time limit for each task that you do. It’ll prevent you from dragging your feet and falling behind with your work.
3. Come Up With a Filing System for Your Important Documents
You’ll have a lot of important documents on your hands when you’re freelancing. For example, many of your clients will probably ask you to sign contracts before giving you assignments.
Purchase a filing cabinet and keep copies of important paperwork organized in it. This includes contracts, payment agreements, pay stubs, and anything else you might need to refer back to later.
4. Put Aside a Percentage of Any Money You Make Freelancing for Tax Purposes
When tax time rolls around, freelancers are responsible for getting their taxes squared away on their own.
Don’t wait until April 15 to figure out how you’re going to pay taxes on the freelance money you’ve earned. Put aside somewhere between 20 and 30 percent of your earnings, depending on your personal situation, for taxes.
A freelance management platform can help you keep tabs on things like your freelance income.
5. Find a Way to Work Personal Time Into Your Life
Staying organized as a freelancer is essential. But don’t allow it to run your life!
You’ll think more clearly and be better organized when you have a good work/life balance. Make time for yourself as often as you can and socialize with others, too.
Stay Organized to Increase Your Chances of Being a Successful Freelancer
Being a freelancer isn’t as easy as it looks. Not everyone has the discipline it takes to succeed.
If you want to ensure you have long-term success as a freelancer, stay organized by following the tips listed here. You’ll keep your head on straight and be able to deal with whatever freelance life throws your way.
