It's easy to see the appeal of being self-employed, working from home, and being your own boss. For many, it's the ultimate dream. However, planning is essential before you jump into the unknown, or you could be in for a rude awakening. You need to know how to stay productive but not overdo it so you don't get burned out. Here are some tips to strike a balance.
Understand Why You Need Balance
If you suddenly leave a job and dive into self-employment without proper planning, it may not take long to realize that you may be over your head. Many people want to work for themselves but find it far too easy to overwork. Sometimes, you may overwork because you think you need longer to earn enough money to pay the bills.
The issue may also be that without a boss telling you to leave work at the end of the day, it's easier to stay at your desk for longer, but if you make that a routine, you'll eventually hit a wall of exhaustion.
It's ironic that you would leave a hectic job just to feel rushed working for yourself, but it's a reality for many. In fact, over 67% of self-employed individuals state that taking time off causes stress, so they keep working.
That's why you need to recognize the signs of burnout and when it's time to make a change. If you're always tired and you're losing your concentration, you may be burned out. You may also find that you have a more cynical attitude than you did in the past. If so, it's time to stop and reflect.
Scheduling Is Key
Yes, you may have more on your plate now that you're self-employed, but you can't overdo it, so one of the tricks to independent success is to create a schedule. Set a starting and ending time and stick to it. When the day ends, leave your workspace and turn off your computer and phone. You should also set break times during the day. Prepare a healthy lunch and sit down to eat it at a set time each day so you can create stops throughout your shift.
Setting manageable daily goals can help you make the most of your working hours. Write down what you hope to achieve by your first break, lunch, and throughout the day.
If you're afraid you won't make enough money during the workday you've set up, then it may be time to create a budget and determine how much you need to work each week. Or, if you work as a freelancer, use your budget to determine how much you should charge per hour. If you can't make ends meet or afford to take breaks, it may be time to reevaluate your strategy.
Allow Time For Yourself
Just like in a typical office job, you need time to find peace in your personal life by allowing time for leisure. After your workday ends, spend time with your family or get outside and enjoy a walk through the forest so you can unwind and relax.
You should also find time to engage in your favorite hobbies. Many hobbies, like woodworking, gardening, and building puzzles, engage your mind and help you think outside the box, and that's just as important when you're having fun as when you're at work.
If you're tight on time, find ways to balance your hobbies with your work so you can unwind and fight off burnout. One way to do so is to schedule your hobbies by marking them on your calendar and setting reminders. Another idea is to combine work and hobbies. For example, if you like journaling, spend 10 minutes writing out your thoughts and then 10 minutes writing out work ideas to get the best of both worlds.
Remember to prioritize your health by establishing and maintaining a self-care ritual. You can combine work with fitness by investing in a standing or treadmill desk. Eat healthy snacks to satisfy your hunger and provide the nutrients you need.
Conclusion
It's essential that you find a way to balance your life so your entire entrepreneurial career is not filled with stress and anxiety. Make it a point to enjoy a fulfilling and productive life, and you'll be happier in the end.