Working remotely has many benefits, but it doesn’t always work out in the long term. As a freelancer worker, you may realize that you’re more productive in an office setting or that you need regular interaction with others during the workday. While working from home is convenient, it doesn’t always lead to a productive workday, especially for freelancers who may not have someone to keep them accountable. If you currently work from home but are looking to make some changes, consider the following ways in which you can continue to do your freelance work but in a more productive way.
Renting an office space
Working in a different location, even if it’s just for one or two days a week, can help you be more productive. A change of scenery can often increase your productivity. Isolation is one of the many reasons some people struggle with remote work. If you rent an office space or work in a place like a library or other location with accessibility and Wi-Fi, you can interact with people throughout the day.
Change your home workspace
Does your home office function in a way that helps you stay on task? It’s easy to get distracted when you’re working at home, but distractions can inhibit your progress. If possible, make some changes to your work area that prevent distractions. Be sure family members and friends are aware of your availability during the workday and insist that they respect your work time and avoid bothering you unless it’s an emergency.
Modify your schedule
When you work as a freelancer, you often have the flexibility to work a non-traditional schedule. Choose your work hours based on when you’re most productive, not when you’re expected to work. A 9-5 workday functions for some people, but others may prefer to work different hours. If your schedule is flexible, consider making some modifications to your workday that will promote productivity.
Many remote workers have realized that working from home is not as easy as it sounds. While there are plenty of benefits to remote work, it doesn’t always lead to maximum productivity, especially for freelancers. Consider making some changes to your work environment by finding a new workspace or modifying your current space or schedule. Making these changes can help keep you on track during the workday.