Spring is the time when nature revives after the colder winter months. As a freelancer, spring is a fantastic chance to reorganize and refresh your workspace and workflow. Here are our tips to spring clean your way to work greatness!
Get Rid of Unnecessary Computer Files
Your computer is likely filled with unnecessary files: old versions of things you’ve already updated, photos and videos that can be backed up online, and documents created for your last project (ahem) three years ago. We know—it’s terrifying to see what’s lurking deep inside your computer!
Before doing anything else, ensure your important files are backed onto an external hard drive or by using an online service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box.com (which has free storage options). Then clean house: sort through files by file type to find the large items that are safe to delete, then get rid of any unused programs while you’re at it via the “add/remove” option in your control panel.
Use Apps To Organize Your Finances
One of the best things you can do to boost your freelance business’s financial health is to set up a system that tracks your income, expenses, and savings. When you’re clear on exactly how much money is flowing in and out of your business, it’s much easier to make good decisions around where and how to spend.
Apps like Mint can help you create a budget. Quickbooks can help you track your income, expenses, mileage, and estimated taxes. Wave is both an accounting software and invoicing platform that helps you keep track of finances. Toggl makes time tracking easy and accessible so you know just how long it takes for you to complete certain tasks or projects. You can use any number of apps or services for this–just find the one that works for you!
Revamp Your Portfolio
Update your Jonusta profile and portfolio to reflect your most recent work. You should showcase your best professional efforts and top-quality work. While it’s important to include whatever previous work you have that is still relevant, make sure that the most recent (and relevant) projects take center stage. If you’re currently working on a project for a client, wait until it’s finished before adding it to your portfolio, as some clients prefer to not have their work shown publicly. As soon as the project is complete, add it!
Revamp Your Workspace
Revamping your workspace can help you feel inspired and motivated to get down to business. While some freelancers have the luxury of working in a professional office space or a home office, many work remotely or at home while juggling family life. So making sure that you’re as comfortable as possible while also maintaining an environment that’s conducive to productivity is crucial. Take stock of what’s working for you and what could be improved upon: Is your chair too stiff? Does the paint color create a calming atmosphere? Are you breathing more deeply with all the leafy plants surrounding you? Addressing these small details will ensure that you’re setting yourself up for success without spending a ton of money.
Assess your long term goals
Think about the skills and experience you already have. Are there skills that would help you get a better handle on your work and life that you could learn over the next few months? If so, what are they, and how can you learn them in an efficient way? What don’t you enjoy doing? What do you want to do more of?
Be more mindful
When you’re a freelancer, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life and put off taking breaks, but it’s important that you unplug and spend time with family and friends. It’s also important to have time to yourself and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. That way, when you are working, you can give it 100% because you have the energy to burn. Practicing mindfulness does help and our simple tips include taking regular breaks, unplugging from your devices at night, spending time with family and friends, and making sure you get enough sleep.
