Freelance work is becoming an increasingly attractive option for many professionals, with the ability to dictate schedules an appealing quality in a fast-paced world. Yet it can be easy for freelance work to devolve into a pursuit devoid of structure and purpose. While freelancers can largely decide when and where to work, it is important to create an atmosphere that is conducive to productivity and motivation.
This is also true for those who find that work doesn’t always stay at work, with many professionals required to work late hours at home in order to meet deadlines. Whether a freelancer creating their own office or someone making an extension of their daytime office, it is vital to have an environment that is both comfortable and practical.
It is prudent to assume that the workspace will be regularly used, even if this doesn’t prove to be the case. Whether working at home every day or once a month, creating a stable work environment will make it much easier to transition into a productive mode. Make space for a desk that has the primary function of being a desk; if you’re having to clear items off your work surface every time you need to complete a task, there is already an extra hurdle for motivation to jump over.
Ensure that there is plenty of space for work, pre-empting the need to spread files and folders across a surface for easier access. This can be difficult when space is a premium, but there is no point creating a work area that doesn’t make life as easy as possible. Take the time to investigate creative solutions to maximise space around the desk.
Having the right chair is also imperative. An office will almost always take away the seating decision from the worker, giving chairs as a standard. It can be easy to neglect choosing the right seat when at home, but it is vital to maintain correct posture. Being at the right level to work from the desk will enable you to work for longer, so an adjustable chair is an advantage.
Once the practical side of creating a workspace has been taken care of, then it is important to personalise the environment. This is something that an office may be more inhibitive of, but when freelancing or working from home there are no restrictions. Creating a photo calendar for the desk by using images of fond memories can be a pleasant reminder of why you are working, while the calendar’s more functional use is also beneficial for important dates in your schedule.
Post-it notes are also an effective way of making key notes of tasks and appointments. When freelancing, it can be easy to lose sight of the bigger picture and long-term goals. Post-it notes provide personalised reminders to generate motivation, while there is the freedom to use as many as needed. Also, make sure there is room for all of the stationery that could conceivably be needed. While the workplace is becoming increasingly digital, it is best to be prepared for any stapling or taping needs.
The change from a screen to a notepad can also give that important break from looking at a computer all day. While freelancing does allow an individual to create their own schedule, it can be just as rigorous as a more traditional 9-5 job. By creating a permanent workspace that is both comfortable and practical, working from home can become that little bit easier.