One of the things I love about living a freelance lifestyle is the fact that I can choose my own work schedule.
Many people start their own businesses because they want to control their schedules and work on their own terms. Sometimes, though, it doesn’t always work out that way. If you run a business that involves a storefront or other physical location, you might need to adhere to a stricter schedule until you are successful enough to hire employees.
Choosing a work schedule involves carefully thinking about your specific needs and when you are most productive. Here are some things to think about as you choose your work schedule:
When are You More Likely to Get Work Done?
The most important consideration as you choose your work schedule is when you are more likely to get your work done. Figure out when you are most productive or when you have fewer distractions. This can be a good way to choose your schedule and stay on top of your workload at the same time. I try to do as much as I can in the morning because that’s when I’m most productive and when I have fewer things to distract me.
Other people I know work late at night because they feel like they have more time by themselves and fewer distractions. Choose a work time best for you.
What Days Do You Want to Work?
What I love about my schedule is that I don’t have to work every day, and I don’t have to work according to a “traditional” schedule. Much of the time, I work on the weekends because I am involved with other activities during the week. It’s also possible for me to arrange my schedule so that I can work three days, getting a lot done, and then take the next few days off.
For some people, this type of schedule works well. Which days you want to work can make a difference in how much time you have to spend with your family or working on relaxation and hobbies. Figuring out a way to balance your work and the rest of your life is important for your mental and emotional health.
Sometimes You Have to Get the Work Done
Of course, sometimes you just have to get the work done as a business owner. When you run a business, no one else can take care of it for you. If someone calls in sick and you own a store, you have to cover. If you are trying to meet a deadline as a freelancer, you might not be able to choose your schedule for that day. Sometimes you just have to get the work done.
Overall, though, being able to choose your schedule is one of the biggest perks of owning your own business or being a freelancer. Look for ways to maximize your productivity so that you have more time in your life for the things that matter the most to you.
