14: How to Avoid Burnout as a Freelancer

Welcome back to the Freelance Insider Show!

In this episode, we're diving into something that affects so many of us—freelancer burnout. It's more than just a buzzword; it's a very real issue for a lot of people. In fact, one study found that almost half of all freelancers experience it at some point.

But what exactly is burnout? We look at the definition from the World Health Organization, which describes it as feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job, and reduced professional efficacy. It's a real shift in your whole attitude towards work.

We discuss why burnout is so common for freelancers, exploring contributing factors like the trap of unrealistic deadlines and the pressure to say yes to every project, which often stems from a fear of missing out on income. The constant hustle mentality, financial uncertainty, and the isolation of working alone can all create a "perfect storm" for burnout.

Knowing the signs is crucial for early detection. We talk about what to look out for, including deep, persistent fatigue that impacts both body and mind, increased irritability and negativity, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, and feeling cynical or detached from your work – when that passion and enthusiasm starts to fade. Recognizing these signs is a sign that you need to make adjustments to protect your well-being.

The good news is there are tons of practical strategies you can use to build a more sustainable and fulfilling freelance life. We dive into prevention techniques like establishing clear boundaries between work time and personal time, creating a dedicated workspace, taking regular breaks, and incorporating movement into your day.

We also explore the importance of mindset, particularly shifting away from a scarcity mindset and towards focusing on your accomplishments and celebrating your wins. This can help you be more strategic about the work you take on, even saying no when necessary, which can be empowering for your well-being and business success. Practical day-to-day aspects include time management, such as prioritizing tasks based on their value, and delegating tasks, both work-related and personal, to free up your time and energy.

But what if you're already feeling burnt out? First, it's important to recognize that burnout is not a sign of failure. It's a signal that you need to make changes. We discuss starting with self-compassion, reducing your workload by turning down projects or taking a break, revisiting self-care practices that nourish your mind, body, and soul, and seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist.

Ultimately, preventing burnout is about creating a freelance life that you truly love. It's about finding what works for you and creating a personalized approach. Remember, you are in control of your freelance journey and you're not alone.

Got questions about this episode or ideas for future topics you want covered? I'd love to hear from you!

Reach out to me at [e-mail].