The Freelancer's Blues

DISCLAIMER: I am not a mental health nor a medical professional. My views on mental health issues and how I address them are my own and may be unique to my case and not applicable to you. If you have any concerns about your mental health, I strongly urge you to seek professional help.

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It's been a while since I published an article for The Reluctant Marketer. I've been meaning to write about this topic before I got struck with COVID, followed by a case of food poisoning, then attending to my wife's meniscus tear, then struggling with my own mobility issues with pain from an ankle fracture I acquired in high school. Who knows what's going to hit me next?

I've been contemplating how a freelancer's mental state is vastly different from someone who is employed. Working remotely, there are no immediate chit-chats with officemates anymore. Working for myself as an entrepreneur, there are no bosses to consult with to confirm if I am proceeding in the right direction. The solitude can be overwhelming at times, making me question if I am really doing what I should be doing. Then answering myself with the question, "Do I really have a choice?"

Also, the struggle for results can be enormous. How long is this going to take before I see any tangible results? What "new" thing can I come up with? And then, perhaps the biggest concern of all, what am I going to tell my family with what I am doing? When will I be able to reach my financial goals and be able to provide for their needs the way I did before?

I consulted AI with this (I treat AI like staff I had when I was still in my previous organizations, and it's pretty efficient) and it gave me the following:

Coping Mechanisms for the Freelancer's Mind

The freelancer's life, while offering freedom and flexibility, can also be a breeding ground for anxieties and doubts. Here are some ways to cope with the mental challenges you might face:

Structure conquers solitude: Establish a consistent routine that separates your workspace from your living space (while I have a dedicated workspace at home, I work a lot on my mobile and am hyper-remote, which is why I list my business place in my profile as "The Nearest Starbucks" ??). Schedule breaks throughout the day to maintain a healthy work-life balance and combat isolation.

Connect with your tribe: Combat loneliness by building a network of fellow freelancers online or in co-working spaces. Schedule virtual coffee chats (whenever I can, I take part in The Friday Coffee Drop-In organized by The Trusted Business Community on LinkedIn) or join online communities to share experiences and support each other.

Embrace the small wins: Break down large projects into manageable tasks and celebrate completing each one. Track your progress and acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small. (Taking a look at my appointment setting tracking sheet as I fill it up gives me a sense of accomplishment.)

Seek mentorship: Find a mentor or coach who can offer guidance and reassurance. Their experience can validate your approach and help you navigate the uncertainties of freelancing.

Communicate openly: Keep your family informed about your progress and challenges. Discuss your financial goals and involve them in the journey. Open communication fosters understanding and reduces pressure.

Prioritize self-care: Don't neglect your physical and mental well-being. Exercise regularly, eat healthy meals, and schedule time for relaxation. Mindfulness practices like meditation can also be helpful.

Seek professional help: Remember, there's no shame in seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can equip you with tools to manage stress, anxiety, and self-doubt.

Taking care of yourself is essential for success as a freelancer. By implementing these strategies, you can build a sustainable and rewarding freelance career.

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So, how do I cope? Whenever I feel the freelancer's blues, I find that I get the push I need by revisiting my "Why's". I need to push harder and overcome these obstacles because I need to get back on my feet again, for myself and for my loved ones. I need to be financially productive to achieve my family's dreams. While I tend to detach from them to avoid any disheartening thoughts, it's for them that I'm doing what I'm doing now and why I will keep doing this until I succeed.