TIP 22: DECK THE HALLS WITH INSPIRATION.....A Freelancer's Pre-Holiday Playbook

As the festive season approaches, freelancers often face a unique challenge: the industry slows down, inboxes fill with polite "circle back to us in February" replies, and the uncertainty of work lingers like the summer heat. It’s a time that can feel both aimless and daunting for those who thrive on momentum and progress.

But what if this quiet season could be your secret weapon? What if, instead of feeling powerless, you used this time to reconnect with your vision, sharpen your skills, and lay the groundwork for an incredible year ahead?

That’s exactly what this advent-style guide is here for—a curated collection of 24 practical and inspiring activities designed to turn downtime into opportunity. Each tip is crafted to help you spark creativity, nurture connections, and build a sense of direction and purpose as you navigate the lead-up to Christmas and beyond.

Whether you’re seeking structure, fresh ideas, or simply a boost in confidence, these bite-sized challenges will guide you through December with clarity and momentum. So, take a breath, lean into this season of possibility, and make these quiet days your creative springboard into 2025.

Tip 22 Plan a Creative Challenge

With possible time on your hands, these summer months can be perfect for setting yourself a fun, structured challenge. For example, create one piece of art or write 500 words every day for 30 days. Consistency keeps your creative muscles active and structured focus gives you a measured sense of accomplishment and achievements

Use this downtime to develop a project that lights you up. Passion projects often become the calling cards that show people what you’re capable of and create new opportunities. Set time aside on a daily basis to spend some time working on this passion project – even baby steps will add up over time.

Perhaps it could involve working on your pitch. Practice how you’d introduce yourself and your work to someone new. What makes you stand out? A polished pitch can make all the difference when the right opportunity arises.

Consider crafting a vision board for your creative goals, whether physically or digitally. Visualising success helps you stay focused and motivated, even during quieter times.

What about collaborating on a small project with fellow creatives and work on something just for fun—no deadlines, no pressure. Collaboration fosters new ideas, builds relationships, and can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Dedicate time to an unrelated creative activity—painting, writing, or even baking. When we shift our focus to a different form of expression we can unlock new ideas and energise and inspire our main projects.