Too Busy to Take Vacation? Freelancing’s Double-Edged Sword

Sheesh, is it already Thursday?

If you’re anything like me, the days blur together when you’re caught up in the whirlwind of work.

This week, let’s keep things brief.

The Upside of Being Busy

There’s a silver lining to this non-stop hustle (beyond a healthier bottom line, which I'm not complaining about).

I'm reminded (constantly) that urgency is a majorly beneficial trait in freelancing. According to Parkinson’s Law, work expands to fill the time available for its completion. Essentially, the more time we think we have, the less efficiently we use it. It's why these packed weeks, although exhausting, make me sharper and faster.

Vacation? What’s That?

And speaking of time, I’m squeezing in projects before a much-needed vacation. Finding the “optimal” time to take a break is almost laughable when you’re a freelancer. No paid time off, no handing off duties to a colleague. Just you, deciding to step away, hoping you’ve timed it right amid client demands and project deadlines.

Here’s the takeaway: Being busy is good. It’s affirming. It means we’re doing something right. But recognizing when to step back for a breather is equally important. After all, a well-rested freelancer is a more creative and productive one.

So, in short, don't forget to plan some well-deserved downtime.

P.S. Missed last week's edition? My apologies! Even the best plans can falter when the projects pile up. Thanks for sticking with me.