She Strengthens

Balancing Act: Navigating Freelance Work and a Full-Time Job

As someone who’s been juggling freelance work and a full-time job for quite some time, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to avoid burnout and maintain some semblance of sanity. My journey began about two years ago, when I started freelancing to save up for a house and gain more control over my career and finances. Little did I know that it would become a lifeline when I got laid off from my startup job in March.

The Reality of Juggling Multiple Roles

After getting laid off, I ramped up my freelance work to avoid a financial crisis. Meanwhile, my husband lost his job, and I had to take on a full-time position to provide benefits for us. This meant balancing a 40+ hour workweek with an additional 30 hours of freelance work. It’s been tough, to say the least. Clients don’t always pay on time, and deadlines can be missed. But I’ve learned some essential strategies to prevent complete meltdown.

Setting Boundaries and Priorities

First and foremost, it’s crucial to accept that your days will be longer, and your social life may suffer. You need to optimize your time and prioritize your tasks. I usually work from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a couple of hours to unwind before bed. Weekends are often spent working, but I make sure to plan ahead and take breaks when needed.

Time Management Hacks

To maintain some semblance of balance, I’ve developed a few time management strategies. First, I give myself a “cutoff” time every day to avoid procrastination and maintain healthy work-life boundaries. I also allot a specific number of hours for my side hustle and prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines.

Efficiency and Delegation

Being efficient with your time is key to juggling multiple roles. I’ve learned to work smart and hard, outsourcing tasks when necessary. For instance, I hired subcontractors to help with high-level strategy and execution for one client. This not only saved me time but also forced me to learn more about payroll and best practices.

Self-Care and Support

It’s easy to forget about self-care when you’re juggling multiple roles, but it’s essential to prioritize your well-being. For me, self-care means taking breaks, practicing yoga, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. I’ve also learned to ask for help when needed, whether it’s from my husband or friends.

Staying Sane in a Chaotic World

Ultimately, there’s no magic formula for juggling an intense workload. But by managing your time wisely, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing self-care, you can stay somewhat sane. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and don’t be afraid to take breaks when needed. With these strategies, I’ve been able to maintain my sanity and continue doing what I love.