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There’s so much to love about being a freelancer. The freedom to run your business the way you choose, pursue your own goals, be your own boss, and the privilege of working from anywhere, to name a few. Of course, the lifestyle doesn’t come without its challenges, including stress.

I realized early on that one of the downsides of freelancing is that the buck stops with me. All the bucks stop with me. I’m responsible for sourcing gigs, doing the work to the customer’s satisfaction, making sure there’s enough money in the bank, and managing my time, and these pressures can cause a boatload of stress. 

Yes, it comes with the territory, but there are multiple methods to relieve stress. Some are essential, like caring for your physical and mental health, while others are optional extras. So, if you have veins standing out on your forehead and you’ve bitten your nails down to nubs, take some time out to read my guide on how to manage stress like a pro.

Why You Need to Manage Stress

Burnout is dangerous and hard to recover from. Your mind and body are a mess, and in all likelihood, you may be unable to work for a while. That will only bring more stress because bills must be paid, and clients won’t wait for you to get well for their next project to be completed. Burnout must be avoided at all costs. That’s why you need to know how to manage stress.

How to Manage Stress Like a Pro

I know my freelance journey will always be fraught with stressful situations, but how I handle it might be the most important factor in whether my business succeeds. Here’s a collection of stress-relieving tips that work for me.

Mindset and Mental Health

As a freelance writer, my mind is my primary resource, so my mental health is my first priority. Some habits that help manage stress include:

• Mindfulness or meditation: Before starting your workday, take 5-10 minutes to be completely still. Whether you pray, meditate, or relax on the deck, it’s important to quieten your mind and start the day off calmly. There are also apps you can use to reset your mind.
• Practicing gratitude: Listing the things I’m grateful for shifts my focus from stress to positivity. And the more I do this, the longer the list grows.
• Journaling: Brain-dump your worries, reflect on wins, or plan your day. Journaling brings mental clarity, and I find it’s a great way of downloading things I can’t articulate or haven’t even realized yet.
• Visualizing success: Guided imagery or simply imagining a positive outcome can help reduce performance anxiety. 
• Adopting a growth mindset: Seeing challenges as learning opportunities rather than failures makes handling stress easier.
• Setting realistic goals: With massive projects, the only way to avoid burnout is to break them down into bite-sized, manageable chunks. Achieving these smaller individual goals also brings satisfaction—a great stress reliever.
• Schedule “worry time”: This may sound counterintuitive, but it’s a habit I taught my kids when they were anxious, and it works. Allow yourself ten minutes to worry and express your emotions. Then, move on to find solutions. It develops a can-do attitude while allowing you to blow off some steam.

Physical Wellness

Your physical health is just as important as your mental health, so it’s worth prioritizing. What we eat, drink, and do with our bodies can aid stress relief.

• Eat nourishing food. Yes, it’s tempting to live on seventeen cups of coffee and a few bags of crisps because it saves time, but don’t do it. Balanced meals stabilize your energy and moods.
• Stay hydrated. Dehydration increases stress and fatigue, and research shows that for optimal hydration, men need 3.7 liters of fluids a day, and women need 2.7. I’m definitely guilty of not staying hydrated when I’m busy, so I keep a water bottle on my desk to remind me to drink throughout the day. If you don’t enjoy plain water, add a slice of lemon or other fruit to improve the taste.
• Do regular exercise. I’m stuck in my study all day (and often late into the night). It’s easy to get stuck there for ages without getting up. Exercise boosts the production of endorphins (feel-good hormones). Even a 15-minute walk is enough to get them pumping, making you feel happier and calmer. It’s also a great way to stop focusing on work stress.
• Get outdoors. Nature has proven stress-reducing effects, and spending 20-30 minutes in nature causes a significant drop in the stress hormone cortisol.
• Get enough sleep. No hustle is worth sacrificing a good night’s rest. Aim for 7-9 hours of consistent sleep. According to the American Psychological Association, people who sleep for less than eight hours per night experience more stress than people who get enough rest. 

Work Habits and Productivity

Yes, there are also things you can do while you work to prevent stress. Firstly, stick to a routine, as a structured day helps reduce chaos and decision fatigue. Starting my day off the same way every day and keeping to a similar work pattern brings order to my mind and helps me get underway without too much stalling.

Planning ahead is a great help. Time block your day by grouping similar tasks and assigning them a time slot. You’ll feel more in control. It’s true; things will still go pear-shaped now and then, but armed with a plan, you stand a much better chance of getting back on track.

When I struggle with productivity, the Pomodoro technique works well and helps prevent burnout. This involves working in short sprints of 25 minutes with 5-minute breaks in between. 

Working from home can be distracting with all the household tasks calling your name, so create a dedicated workspace to separate “work mode” from “home mode.” Keeping this space tidy and uncluttered also helps you think clearly and calmly.

Having a home office also means you can run the risk of working until the wee hours, which is not a healthy habit. Put a hard stop to your day, just like you would at a traditional job. 

I’ve also had to learn to set boundaries and stick to them. When you work from home, clients often contact you at all hours for work purposes. Don’t respond immediately to every message or take on every project. Learning to say no more often will keep you sane and prevent burnout.

At the end of the week, I like to review my progress. I celebrate the small wins, see where I need to step up the pace, and prepare for the week ahead. Being a solopreneur also means I have to work smarter, so using tools, apps, templates, and sometimes a virtual assistant helps reduce my workload and, thereby, my stress.

Technology can work for or against you, so you need to find the right balance.

• Try using stress-reducing apps. Great options include meditation apps like Calm, productivity tools like Todoist or Notion, and focus music apps like Brain.fm.
• Use noise-canceling headphones. These block out distractions and reduce sensory overload.
• Try ambient sound or lo-fi playlists. Background music can be calming and create a focused atmosphere.
• Limit your screen time. Give your brain and eyes a break, especially outside of work time.
• Turn off notifications. Constant pings = constant cortisol buildup. Set do-not-disturb hours.

Social and Support

As a freelancer, you work alone most of the time. If you’re an introvert like me, that’s part of the joy of freelancing. However, we all need people to help lighten the load sometimes. When the pressure is high, connecting with others can keep you sane.

• Talk to other freelancers. Join communities or local meetups to feel less isolated.
• Talk it out with a friend – sometimes just venting is enough to de-stress.
• Collaborate with others.
• Hire a coach or therapist to help you manage your stress.
• Hug someone! Research shows that enjoyable physical contact can lower stress levels. It reduces your cortisol and releases oxytocin, decreasing blood pressure and lowering your heart rate – two physical symptoms of high stress.

Creative Outlets and Fun

Participating in activities beyond work is essential for a good work/life balance and sanity. Do something creative just for the joy of it, not for profit. Whether baking, painting, or gardening, it will take you out of your head and release those feel-good hormones you need to manage your stress.

Laughter is, of course, the best remedy for stress. Watch a funny video (animal videos are my favorite) or listen to a comedy podcast. A good belly laugh is an excellent stress buster.

Cultivate a Mindful Freelance Mindset

As a freelancer, I find it easy to become obsessive about work. I’m at work all the time. I’m solely responsible for my business and income. However, cultivating a mindful freelance attitude keeps me grounded and is a great stress reliever.

• Accept that slow periods are part of the cycle and plan accordingly.
• Detach your self-worth from productivity – you’re not your output.
• Remind yourself why you started freelancing to reignite your purpose.
• Let go of perfectionism and aim for progress and improvement.
• Practice self-compassion. You won’t be at the top of your game every day – and that’s okay.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRvKjzMIYTw

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Minimizing Stress and Maximizing Healthy Habits

Stress can be debilitating and lead to burnout, so we need to learn to conquer it. It’s not that difficult. Prioritizing your mental and physical health and cultivating healthy work habits and attitudes will soon have you managing stress like a pro.

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A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a critical business document that outlines a project or service’s specifics and solicits bids from qualified contractors to complete it. Mastering the art of RFP writing is fundamental to securing the best value and expertise for your company’s needs. Whether you are a procurement specialist, project manager, or business owner, understanding the nuances of an RFP will help streamline the process of vendor selection and project initiation. Keep reading to discover a detailed guide on how to write an RFP, which offers practical tips for success.

Understanding the Purpose and Scope of Writing an RFP

Alt text: A close-up of a person’s hand typing on a laptop, writing an RFP

Before diving into the mechanics of writing an RFP, it’s essential to comprehend its purpose. An RFP is more than a simple request; it’s a formal invitation for suppliers to propose solutions for your business problems or needs. By accurately defining the project’s scope, desired outcomes, and specific criteria, an RFP ensures that all potential vendors operate on a level playing field, providing comparable bids.

The scope of an RFP can vary greatly depending on the project’s complexity and the services or products needed. Outlining the document’s overarching goals, timelines, and benchmarks is crucial to guiding vendors toward a suitable proposal. Critical thought must be given during this phase to ensure no key elements are overlooked.

Moreover, an RFP informs vendors about your company’s selection process, timelines for decision-making, and preferred methodology for proposal submission. By setting clear expectations, businesses minimize the risk of receiving proposals that do not align with their objectives or budget constraints.

Remember, an RFP is as much a reflection of your organization’s professionalism as it is a solicitation for services. Ensuring it is well-crafted and comprehensive can lead to more accurate and tailored responses from potential vendors, making the evaluation process more straightforward for your selection committee.

Essential Components of an Effective RFP

Alt text: A man seated at a table in an office, with a laptop in front of him, crafting the essential components of an RFP

Every effective RFP contains several critical components that guide prospective vendors toward crafting a relevant and competitive proposal. The introductory section should set the scene, offering background information on your organization and the purpose of the RFP. This context is valuable as it frames the vendor’s understanding of your needs and expectations.

The statement of work (SOW) follows the introduction, delineating the project’s scope, specific tasks, deliverables, and deadlines. Vendors use this section to gauge the complexity and resources required for the project. Another crucial segment is the proposal guidelines, which detail how bids should be structured and submitted and any formatting preferences.

Adherence to budget constraints is a shared concern for solicitors and suppliers. RFPs must include a section for pricing structure, where vendors can itemize costs associated with their proposed solution. This transparency is vital for comparing bids and understanding each vendor’s value proposition.

Moreover, the RFP should outline the criteria for selection, such as vendor qualifications, references, and demonstrated experience. By setting objective evaluation metrics, businesses ensure that the selection process is fair and justifiable, steering clear of potential biases or misunderstandings about awarding the contract.

Crafting Clear and Concise Requirements for Your RFP

Clarity and precision are pivotal when outlining the requirements within your RFP. Ambiguous or generic descriptions can lead to various interpretations, possibly resulting in unfitting proposals. To preempt this, explicitly detail what you seek from the vendor, leaving little room for misinterpretation.

Specificity should not come at the expense of conciseness. While providing comprehensive information is essential, overly detailed or technical jargon can obscure the fundamental objectives. Focus on the essentials. Ensure requirements are well-defined but presented in an accessible language that allows for objectively comparing proposals.

Vendors appreciate a clear vision of the expected outcomes and how success will be measured. Such transparent criteria serve as a baseline for vendors’ project planning and illustrate your organization’s standards. Include these performance metrics in the requirement so prospective suppliers understand the benchmarks they must satisfy.

Ultimately, the quality of proposals you receive will echo the quality of your RFP. As such, dedicating sufficient time and resources to crafting a clear, concise, and complete RFP is not only advisable but imperative for the success of the entire acquisition process.

Altogether, crafting a well-defined and comprehensive RFP is essential for attracting high-quality proposals that align with your project’s goals and budget. By following these guidelines, businesses can ensure a smoother selection process and ultimately secure the best vendor.

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With no department or firm to have their back, freelance designers often find themselves in situations where they’re expected to deliver stellar results in little time or on a shoestring budget. How should you approach such situations and not just make it out in one piece but impress the client while you’re at it? Here are several tips to fall back on next time you’re in a crunch.

Hammer Out the Details First

Aligning your deliverables with the client’s vision can become a serious drain on your time and resources. Aim to minimize misunderstandings by extensively communicating with clients beforehand. Save yourself from much of the back-and-forth by creating a design brief template.

In it, outline the project’s scope, deadlines, and deliverables, and lock the specifics in with the client and any other stakeholders before getting to work on the actual project.

Time Blocking & Task Streamlining

It has long been proven that multitasking doesn’t work. Yet, the hectic nature of their work means it’s fundamental to many designers’ workflows. Blocking your time out and devoting each chunk to specific tasks like ideation, refinement, or communicating with clients is a smarter and more productive strategy. It also helps to group and execute similar tasks instead of tackling them as they arise and disrupting your flow.

Reuse & Repurpose What You Can

Each new design project produces assets like icons, templates, or presentation decks that would be wasteful to use only once. Often only minimal tweaks to their style or color palette are enough to make these assets a seamless part of new projects. Organize them into libraries and keep these at hand to put quality results out quickly and for less.

There’s no shortage of design tools that can drastically boost your productivity. The best part? Quality alternatives exist for many industry-standard tools, meaning you don’t have to budget for expensive software subscriptions anymore.

Don’t limit yourself to just design-related tools, either. Time trackers can help with the aforementioned time blocking and help justify expenses to clients. Kanban boards and project management software are invaluable when collaborating with others and delegating tasks. Video and written communication tools help keep clients in the loop and minimize unpleasant surprises like sudden changes of heart.

Handle Projects Securely

Freelance design often involves working with confidential files. New logos for established brands, product prototypes, or marketing materials for upcoming campaigns — not to mention any user analytics or personal data you might gain access to — are tempting cyberattack targets. That’s why taking cybersecurity in consideration is a must for every single project.

Protect yourself and such assets by having strong, unique passwords for all accounts and being aware of social engineering attacks like phishing.

Moreover, use a VPN whenever connecting to unsafe networks like public Wi-Fi. This will create an encrypted tunnel that allows for secure communication and file exchanges, preventing them from being intercepted by anyone monitoring the network. VPNs are useful for accessing geo-restricted tools and resources. They’re indispensable when it comes to testing marketing campaigns or website layouts if a client operates in a different region.

However, make sure to get the best VPN available for your needs. Research the market and compare your options since not all VPNs provide the same features and functionalities.

Stick to the Original Scope

Design brief or not, scope creep is all too common. Sometimes you’ll want to go above and beyond after realizing part of the project. Other times, it’s the client who keeps moving the goalposts. In either case, it’s best to inform the client that you may be about to overstep the project’s original boundaries and ask for appropriate time extensions or additional compensation to keep things fair.

Automate (Within Reason)

Graphic design isn’t immune to the expansion of generative AI. It’s still imperfect, and overreliance on AI design tools can hurt your credibility while stifling originality. Even so, their ubiquity means you’ll have to incorporate AI tools into your workflows.

Doing so can be beneficial without compromising your integrity. For example, you can use these tools to create mood boards, generate textures, or remove backgrounds. This will automate the tedious stuff, leaving more time and energy to focus on your creative vision.

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Both Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are currently rapidly transforming the way we live and work. These new emerging technologies impact various sectors by increasing effectiveness, cutting expenses, and simplifying repetitive tasks. Businesses around the world are already utilizing these innovations to boost workflows, upgrade decision-making, and increase employee output. One of the main issues, though, is how AI and automation can improve worker productivity without sacrificing their creativity and open-mindedness. Let us explore this topic in detail.

Common Ways AI and Automation Boost Worker Productivity

Workplace output can be incredibly enhanced when businesses start utilizing automation techniques and AI tools. These technologies must be used with caution, though, if you do not wish to fight popular side effects, like discouragement, indifference, or lack of enthusiasm. Overusing such innovations might lead corporations to counterproductive aftermaths.

Whether you are looking for a sales team productivity boost, or want to empower your customer care department with

If employed correctly and with precise supervision, both automation and AI can boost worker productivity in the following ways:

• Automated Repetitive Tasks – Employing technologies based on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can lead to widespread automation. Most AI-powered tools can easily take care of tedious and time-consuming repetitive tasks. These include entering data, processing invoices, or managing schedules. Automating these tasks allows employees to concentrate on more complex issues.
• Faster Decision-Making – Today’s analytics are more often being guided by AI, which allows teams and supervisors to access key factors derived from past data. The quicker the tools analyze data, the faster decision-making becomes. Yet, it is not entirely about speed—this also allows companies to make more precise decisions over time.
• Improved Communication – Artificial Intelligence has the capacity to boost modern chatbots and virtual assistants. AI-driven customer service is commonly utilized as the first step to address clients’ inquiries. Furthermore, these tools improve in-house communication, speeding up collaboration, which leads to increased productivity.

It does end here. AI and automation can boost worker productivity with personalized workflows, including customized settings, tool layouts, and specific features. Also, automated and AI-based solutions help reduce basic human errors, leading to improved precision and reliability in tasks such as managing payroll or creating financial reports.

Boosting Worker Productivity With AI In Well-Being

According to the recent American Psychology Association’s 2023 Work in America™ Survey, psychological well-being plays a vital part for 92% of workers. The same studies show that 77% of workers have experienced work-related stress, leading to negative impacts, such as workplace burnout, in 57% of cases.

That is why employers need to address their employees’ well-being like never before. Interestingly enough, AI and automation might come in handy in such cases. Since worker productivity is not all about efficiency and a high success rate, it seems crucial to handle all emotional and psychological issues with the necessary care.

AI can contribute to building a healthier and more stable work environment, which is possible thanks to:

• Workload Monitoring – Utilizing AI-based analytic tools leads supervisors to gather much-needed knowledge regarding potential workload imbalances. This can lead to task reallocation, should burnout dangers arise.
• Mental Health Support – Some applications utilizing AI and ML are likely to provide stress management tips and tricks. Others might share useful mindfulness exercises to relieve employees from unnecessary anxiety and nervousness.
• Work-Life Balance Enhancement – As AI apps optimize scheduling, they have the potential to lead workers into balancing their work obligations and everyday life. The result is simple, yet important: employees do not work beyond reasonable hours.

All these factors play a vital role in creating a healthy workspace and helping employees to maintain their productivity levels. Worker mentality should become one of the main factors for employers to take care of. Psychological well-being leads to more happiness and satisfaction, causing a professional to stay industrious for longer.

Human Resources Can Improve Productivity With Automation

Besides AI-centered apps, modern businesses are also relying on automation techniques and systems. Companies understood the rewards of automation already back in 2017 when 99% of business leaders embraced total automation advantages. Among the most commonly addressed factors were manual error reduction, improving product quality, and enhancing productivity levels.

As more and more companies (31% as of 2023) are automating at least one of their key business functions, 56% of Human Resources departments have increased their revenue by adopting AI technology. Such solutions can improve HR in the following areas:

• Auto Resume Screening – AI can quickly go through resumes, evaluating the ones that fit HR’s requirements best. Screening candidates based on set guidelines minimizes the time needed for recruitment by filtering the right potential employees.
• Worker Onboarding Processes – With the use of automated AI solutions, HR departments can quickly onboard new workers. Pre-set training courses are used to respond to all frequently asked questions employees might have at the beginning.
• Precise Performance Tracking – If HR needs to evaluate workers’ productivity levels, this process can be streamlined by automation and AI. Modern solutions deliver analytical suggestions for further improvements that can be widely used in a firm.

How do AI and automation in HR help with enhancing productivity? This department can focus on more creative and intriguing tasks, leaving simple and repetitive, yet time-consuming errands to be done by machines.

How AI and Automation Will Improve Productivity In The Future?

The future of automation and AI in the workplace? Very very promising. The work environment will be heavily influenced by emerging technologies, leading more companies to reach out for productivity-improving tools. The main trends to follow include:

• Creative AI – Models based on Artificial Intelligence could possibly become more creative in terms of content and graphic design.
• Hyper-Automation – End-to-end corporate activities might be enhanced with the combination of AI, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), and Machine Learning (ML).
• AI Personal Assistants – Virtual assistants are likely to become even more sophisticated, answering complex and advanced client inquiries.

Overall, both automation and AI are no longer just futuristic concepts—these technologies are already transforming the work landscapes of today. As these tools progress, their contribution to worker productivity is going to grow beyond limits. Businesses should not just observe how AI and automation influence the nature of employment—the time to adapt and adopt is NOW.

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Your iPhone is indispensable if you’re freelancing. It allows you to generate and modify content, search for jobs, and talk with customers.

When you have an office job, your primary device is usually a computer or company-issued phone with specific usage restrictions during the workday, so your iPhone mostly stays personal. But freelancing is different. Most freelance work, such as copywriting, translation, video filming and editing, social media management (SMM), photography, and so on, can be completed solely on an iPhone. It is no wonder that your phone will become full of unnecessary or old files in no time, ultimately slowing it down.

So, it’s smart to occasionally clear your iPhone’s storage to improve or stabilize its performance. In this article, we’ll share the best methods to free up space quickly and get your phone running smoothly again.

How to Clean Up iPhone Storage

Since freelance work covers so many different types of tasks, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to clearing iPhone storage. That’s why this section focuses on general, go-to methods that work across the board. Based on conversations on Reddit, about half of freelancers use the same iPhone for both work and everyday life, while the other half use separate devices. So no matter how you’ve set things up, these tips will help you keep your phone running smoothly.

Remove Unnecessary Media Content

Your iPhone probably has some important images stored on it, like the content you created for brands, but it also has plenty of unnecessary or outdated photos you could safely delete without losing anything valuable. Still, you probably don’t want to waste hours sorting through them when you could be working and earning money (which, judging by reviews, can be pretty substantial). That’s why we recommend using an iPhone cleaner app like Clever Cleaner: AI CleanUp App, which handles all the work for you.

This app is completely free and helps you easily remove duplicate or similar photos, screenshots, large media files, and even compress live photos. We’ll concentrate on the “Similars” feature, which specifically targets duplicates and similar images since you probably don’t realize how many of these are cluttering your iPhone. Clearing them out can quickly free up several (or even dozens) gigabytes. If you think the app’s other features might be more helpful for your needs, you can check out the official website of Clever Cleaner for iPhone or its App Store page to learn more.

1. Search for Clever Cleaner in the App Store and install it on your work iPhone. Or, if it’s easier, just head to the official website and use the link there – it’ll take you straight to the App Store.
2. Once you open the app, give it access to your photo library. After you grant permission, the app will scan your photos.
3. When the scan is done, you’ll see groups of duplicate and similar photos. The app’s AI will automatically pick the best version in each group and mark the others for possible deletion.
4. Tap into a few groups to see if you agree with the selections. If everything looks good, go back to the main screen and hit the ‘Smart Cleanup’ button to delete all unnecessary copies in one go.
5. If you want more control, you can change which photo gets kept and manually choose what to delete. Just tap into any group, make your picks, and hit ‘Move to Trash.’

6. All deleted photos go into the app’s trash first, giving you a chance to double-check. If you want to review them, tap the pop-up at the bottom, look through the files, and slip ‘Slide to Delete’ to confirm the final deletion. If you’re confident everything’s good, just tap ‘Empty Trash’ in the pop-up.

7. The selected photos will then move to the Recently Deleted album in your iPhone’s Photos app. The app will suggest clearing that folder right away to clean up iPhone storage and provide steps on how to do it. If you skip it, those files will still sit there for 30 days before they’re permanently deleted.

If, for whatever reason, you’d rather not use the app (maybe you’re not comfortable with how automated it is or just prefer more control), you can learn more ways on how to remove duplicate photos on an iPhone here: https://www.cleverfiles.com/howto/remove-duplicate-photos-iphone.html

Use Cloud Services

If you don’t want to delete any media from your iPhone, there’s another option – move everything to cloud storage. There are a few different services that can help, and each one works a little differently.

Take iCloud, for example. It’s fully built into Apple devices and keeps everything synced across your iPhone and Apple’s servers. One handy feature is ‘Optimize iPhone Storage.’ When you turn it on, your photos and videos get uploaded to iCloud, and the originals are replaced with smaller, space-saving previews on your phone. If you ever need the full-quality version, you can just re-download it. One thing to remember is if you delete a photo from your iPhone, it’ll also be removed from iCloud (and vice versa). So, this is a great option if your goal is simply to free up local space without actually losing any content.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap your name at the top, then go to iCloud.
3. Select Photos, then turn on iCloud Photos.
4. Confirm Optimize iPhone Storage is enabled – this will kick off the syncing process and free up space on your device.

Other common cloud storage choices include Google Drive and Dropbox, which aren’t integrated into Apple’s system in the way that iCloud is. Though you can initiate syncing with your iPhone, these services also don’t replace your original files with thumbnails – they simply store more copies in the cloud. So, if you remove a file from your iPhone, it’ll remain safe in the cloud. This can be really useful if you don’t want to store something on your phone but are not quite ready to delete it, like finished projects you’ve sent to a client but might still need to tweak later. Here’s how to use Google Drive for that:

1. Download the Google Drive app from the App Store and install it.
2. Open the app and sign in or create an account if you don’t already have one.
3. Press the ‘+’ icon, then choose ‘Upload file’ and select ‘Photos and Videos’ or ‘Browse’ if uploading other files.

4. Pick the files or images you want to back up from your iPhone.
5. Once everything’s uploaded, you can manage your files right from the app or log in to Google Drive on your computer.

Clear the Cache in Your Browser and Other Applications

Apps probably take up the biggest chunk of storage on your device, so managing them (and their data) is a smart way to clean up iPhone storage. The storage an app takes up isn’t just from the time the app was downloaded, it’s also data and cache that accumulates over time as you use the app. Usually, that extra data makes apps run more fluidly and load more quickly, but excess or outdated data turns out to have the opposite effect. Apps could begin to lag, freeze, or take an eternity to load content.

One of the biggest space hogs on your iPhone is usually your browser. If you don’t clear its cache and web data once in a while, it stores everything from job search results (LinkedIn, Upwork, etc.) to all sorts of other data. We’ll show you how to clear the cache using Safari, the iPhone’s default browser, but if you use something else like Chrome or Opera, the steps are similar. Just remember you’ll need to look in the app’s own settings rather than your iPhone’s.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down, tap Apps, and look for Safari in the list.

3. In Safari’s settings, scroll down and tap Clear History and Website Data.
4. You’ll see a dialog that lets you pick how far back you want to clear your history and data. Select the time range you prefer.
5. Finally, tap the red Clear History button to confirm.

Other apps, especially messengers you use for client communication or social networks where you find inspiration, also collect cache data. Unlike browsers, though, not all have a built-in option to clear it. You’ll have to check each app individually.  Here’s how you clear the cache in Telegram, for example:

1. Open Telegram on your iPhone.
2. Tap Settings (found in the bottom right corner).
3. Select Data and Storage and tap Storage Usage.
4. Choose Clear Entire Cache to remove cached files.

If the app doesn’t offer a cache-clearing feature, or if you just don’t want to spend time hunting for it, you can simply reinstall it (we’ll explain how in the next section).

Delete Unnecessary Applications

While clearing cache and data is effective for applications you frequently use, it’s often better to delete apps that you haven’t opened for a long time. This action not only removes the application but also erases all the data it has accumulated. Although you can uninstall apps directly from the home screen, we’ll provide a more detailed method through the settings that allows you to sort apps by the date of last use.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap General, then choose iPhone Storage. You’ll see a list of all the apps installed on your phone.

3. Near the top, tap Last Used Data in the top-right corner to sort apps by when you last opened them. Apps you haven’t used in a while will show up at the bottom.
4. Select the app you want to delete for a detailed view of its storage usage.

5. Tap Delete App at the bottom of the screen. Confirm to remove the app and all its data.

6. If you deleted the app to clear its cache and want to reinstall it, open the App Store, search for the app, and tap the cloud icon (with a downward arrow) to download it again.

In the screenshots, you might’ve noticed a button called ‘Offload app.’ Tapping it removes the app itself (and part of the cache) but keeps all of its data on your iPhone. So if you decide to reinstall that app later, it’ll pick up right where you left off, for instance, a photo editing app would still have all your templates and presets saved.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Stop Cleaning Up Your iPhone Storage

We have outlined general methods to free up iPhone storage quickly so that you can accomplish more at work. However, there are additional locations and files that you should inspect and clear of unnecessary items:

• Files app stores downloaded photos and videos that do not go into the Photos app, along with other files like archives, documents, and PDFs. Often, files that you used once and then forgot about remain here. Inspect these items and delete those you no longer need.
• If you frequently send or receive multimedia attachments through the Mail and Messages apps, remember these are not stored directly in your iPhone’s storage but they do take up space. Review all conversations and delete those that are no longer needed, or remove just the attachments.
• If you enjoy working while listening to podcasts, music, or various videos in the background, check the applications you use for these activities for old downloads that you will not listen to or watch again.

Lastly, a bit of advice – if you find it difficult to balance work and rest due to frequent notifications on your iPhone, consider setting up Focus Mode. In this mode, you can specify a list of users and applications from which you want to receive notifications during working hours. This setup can help reduce unnecessary distractions, which allows you to concentrate more effectively on your tasks.

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Freelancing offers substantial freedom. 

As a freelance content writer and online business coach, I continuously advocate for this lifestyle. Because how many places of work can honestly say (and mean) that their employees have complete flexibility?

Not many.

With freelancing, you can …  

Live wherever you want. Choose your own hours. Work with clients who have brands you genuinely adore. And scale your business to the moon, if you want.

BUT — if you don’t know how to balance your family responsibilities with your work-life, you’ll feel caught in the middle of a tug-of-war game.

And that’s what this piece will focus on today. 

Let’s take a closer look at how freelancing impacts family life and how you can support your mental well-being while working from home. 

How does freelancing impact family life and mental health?

If you’re a new parent, have multiple littles running around, or you’re planning to start a family, your freelancing work and family life need to have structure. 

Yes, yes, I know you love freedom and flexibility, but you have to strike the right balance.

Otherwise, you can run into challenges, such as:

High stress around deadlines and familial expectations

You’re juggling a lot of balls and wearing many hats when you’re a solopreneur or freelancer.

You might have 10 projects to submit in a week, a new baby that needs tending to, and your partner’s schedule to work around. 

With so many responsibilities and people to consider, you can quickly become overwhelmed. This lifestyle is freeing, but it’s not for the faint of heart. You’ll need lots of tools in your self-care arsenal to prevent you from going down burnout alley. 

(We’ll get to these in a bit.)

Blurred boundaries between work and family life

This is probably the most challenging part of being a freelancer. You might have your work desk in your bedroom, a toddler running around you while you’re on deadline, or your partner asking what you’d like to eat when you’re on a client call. 

And sometimes all at the same time. 🙃

Feeling pulled between your work and home life like this can make you feel unstable and frustrated. The good news is, you can fix this with a few scheduling adjustments.

Mental health strain from social isolation 

Not having physical co-workers can be a huge adjustment for new freelancers. (Even if you’re an introverted freelancer, you may still feel isolated from the lack of community.) 

Loneliness isn’t good for our health. 

In fact, some research says that loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day!

Common health challenges some freelancers report struggling with include:

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How to support your mental health while working from home 

Here are some of my favorite tips for supporting mental well-being when you’re working from home:

1. Practice relaxation techniques often 

Plan a daily relaxation routine as a preventative. And use relaxing coping tools when needed.

The types of relaxation techniques that work for you might be different from others’ — so try out a few options to see what you like best!

Some people find that physical activity like running or going for walks supports them. Others might prefer long showers or warm baths. And some may lean into holistic practices, like yoga, deep breathing, and somatic exercises. The point is finding options that actually help you feel better.

Some other relaxation techniques you can try include:

• Sitting outside in your favorite chair while the sun hits your face
• Going for a nature walk and pausing to look at birds and flowers
• Tapping (also called the Emotional Freedom Technique)
• Grounding while listening to relaxing music
• Cuddling with your pet in a quiet room

Please note that if your mental health status feels shaky, it may be time to reach out for professional support. Especially if you’re experiencing psychological distress or emotional distress. 

This is especially true if you or any of your family members have a chronic illness.

For example, if you have kids or teenagers undergoing treatment for depression, make sure you also have someone you can lean on. Talk with a therapist, call a free mental health hotline, or meet up with a support group.

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The same goes for physical illnesses or recent injuries. Find a care team that aligns with your values and needs — and choose a treatment plan that supports you best. If you live in a rural area, ask your doctor if they can help you find a travel physical therapist who can come to you. 

(Since I live in a small seaside village, I’ve had to hire medical staff to come to my home a few times. Honestly, it was really convenient and worth the cost. Especially after I first had my daughter.)

2. Communicate your boundaries with family members 

Put a “Do not disturb” sign on your office door and lock it. 

Okay, okay … kidding. Maybe. 😂

But in all seriousness, over-communicate with the people who live with you or visit you often. Let them know what your work hours are or the times you tend to work on projects so they can give you some space. 

If noise is hard to control, use earplugs, put on some lo-fi or less stimulating music, or try noise-cancelling headphones. 

You might also try working at times when people in your house aren’t around as much. (I personally prefer working at night because the whole world goes quiet and I can really focus on my work.) 

Some freelancers prefer working in the wee hours of the morning. And others will only open up their laptops once the kiddos are at school and their partners are at work. 

Test a few schedules out to see what supports you best. 

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by my workload and my family life is always on the back burner?

Break projects into smaller tasks and prioritize what’s most important. (And don’t be afraid to outsource or ask for deadline extensions when needed.)

Systems and automations are also a must! These can help you reduce manual labor and free up your schedule by several hours each week if you set them up right. 

I also highly recommend using Milo. 

You can send your to-dos to Milo via SMS, email, or screenshot, and it’ll help you get tasks off your plate. It’s trained to handle family-related tasks and keeps everyone in the loop with daily updates and weekly previews.

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3. Build your “village”

You’ve heard the phrase “it takes a village” — usually pertaining to raising children. And it’s true. You NEED a village when you’re a freelancer, especially if you have children who aren’t old enough to be in school yet. 

So … 

Pay a college student to walk your dog and take your kiddo to the park. Ask your best friend to put your baby to sleep while you take a much-needed shower. Join community groups that align with your values. This might be a weekly running group, a pilates group, or a yoga with moms group.

Groups are also great to be a part of if you just moved to a new area. Try Meetup or look for groups on Facebook that line up with your interests. 

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Babysitting apps, like Care, or dog walking apps like Rover can also pair you with people who can help watch your children and doggos.

Remember to have fun, too. Whatever that looks like for you! 

Ask friends to come over for a bi-weekly game night. Go out for brunch on Sundays. Or go shopping to upgrade your wardrobe. Invite your friends and turn it into a fashion show. Try both personal and professional pieces on, like a tweed jacket, and get their opinions!  

You’ll likely need to schedule these in if you want them to happen, though. Remember, Milo can help with that!

How to THRIVE as a busy freelancer who’s balancing family life

Most advice about freelancing and family balance is about boundaries and schedules. That’s survival. It’s important, but you also need strategies that don’t just keep you afloat but help you thrive. 

Here are my top suggestions:

Use priority stacking to maximize energy, not just time

Most freelancers think in terms of time management. But energy is your real currency. 

If you stack high-energy tasks (like deep client work) during your peak mental hours and pair low-energy tasks (like answering emails) with family moments, you can maximize your output while staying available. 

For example:

• If your kids nap at 2 PM, schedule your hardest tasks right before so you’re already in the flow when they fall asleep. Ideally, see if someone else can put them to bed for you, too.
• If you have morning energy but also do school drop-offs, share your content ideas in a voice memo while you’re waiting in the car.
• Sync “mindless” admin tasks with times your kids need passive supervision, like when they’re doing homework.

Work in sprints instead of trying to maintain balance

The idea of daily balance is a myth. Instead of fighting it, embrace work sprints. (This is when you work in hyper-focused bursts and then fully unplug.)

For instance:

• If a big project demands a full workday, plan a “connection sprint” the next day. Spend extra time with family the following day with zero work distractions.
• Instead of feeling guilty about working late, make it intentional. Tell your family, “I’m in a sprint this week, but we’ll do a movie night on Friday.”
• Communicate that balance happens over weeks, not daily. (This is one of the only ways I’ve been able to free myself from “the guilt cycle”.)

Develop a “fail-safe” system for burnout prevention

Most freelancers wait until burnout hits before making changes. 

Instead of waiting for the doom to hit, get ahead of potential burnout by creating a fail-safe system.

For example:

• Have a pre-set emergency plan for when stress is high. (Like a backup childcare option, a client reschedule template, and a go-to relaxation practice.) Extra emphasis on the backup childcare option!
• Use a “stress barometer” check-in. Once a week, rate your stress from 1 to 10. If it’s above 7 for two weeks, implement a recovery strategy before you crash.
• Schedule quarterly personal “retreats” — even if it’s just a solo coffee break with no phone — to recalibrate.

Wrap up 

Thriving as a freelancer requires fluid systems that adapt. Some days, work will take priority. Other days, family will. The key is building a structure that lets you shift between them without guilt or burnout.

When you manage energy instead of time, automate home life, and integrate family into your workflow, you create a life where business and family fuel each other, not compete. 

Your schedule becomes a tool, not a burden. Your boundaries give you freedom, not restriction. 

Instead of chasing an impossible sense of balance, you gain something even better — alignment with your values, your work, and the people who matter most.

That’s all I’ve got for now, freelancers.

To your success!

PS: Need more freelancing tools? You’ll love these tools for freelancers.

FAQs about mental health and freelancing

What is mental health?

Mental health is the state of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act. It also affects our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. ​

When should I seek help for mental health issues?

Consider seeking help if you experience persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness. If these feelings interfere with daily activities (or if you have thoughts of self-harm) reach out ASAP.

How can I support a friend or family member with mental health challenges?

Listen empathetically, offer non-judgmental support, and encourage them to seek professional help. Make sure to also educate yourself about their specific mental health condition to provide informed support. 

Why is mental health important for freelancers?

Freelancing gives you freedom, but it can also be isolating and stressful. Taking care of your mental health helps you stay motivated, productive, and happy in your work. 

How can I deal with the stress of inconsistent income?

Budget wisely, save during high-earning months, and diversify your income streams. It’s also important to set up contracts that support you to work long-term. 

Build long-term relationships with the RIGHT clients so you don’t have to worry about feast and famine cycles. Plus, you’ll be able to support them even better since you’ll continue learning about their business needs.

How do I avoid burnout when working for myself?

Set clear work hours, take breaks, and don’t overload your schedule. Burnout also happens when you never disconnect, so make time for rest and activities you enjoy.

Remember to build that village! See the tips above for more details.

What can I do if I feel lonely as a freelancer?

Join coworking spaces, network with other freelancers, and schedule regular check-ins with friends and family. 

How do I set boundaries with clients to protect my mental health?

Be clear about your availability, set realistic deadlines, and say no to projects that don’t fit. The right clients care about your stability and health and will work with you to support your needs.

How can I stay motivated when working alone?

To increase motivation, create a routine, set goals, and reward yourself for completing tasks. Having structure and incentives can keep you focused.

Make sure you’ve also chosen an industry you genuinely enjoy.

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Educational consulting involves guiding schools or individuals toward better teaching and learning practices. Consultants focus on academic growth, curriculum planning, test preparation, and even leadership strategy. They look for ways to support learning in classrooms or at home. Sometimes, a single suggestion—like rearranging a course schedule—can make a big difference.
In exploring these options, people often seek outside opinions and resources. For instance, some might come across essay market reviews or choose to read recent writepaperfor.me reviews to get a sense of available writing assistance. Others might talk directly with professionals who understand diverse educational setups. By tapping into varied insights, parents, teachers, and administrators learn how to tackle everyday problems more effectively. Overall, consulting brings helpful strategies into the classroom or home environment.

Why Schools May Need Consultants

Schools handle more than daily lessons. They address behavioral concerns, parent communication, and the academic progress of each student. Sometimes, educators feel overworked or short on fresh ideas. A consultant can bring new viewpoints to address gaps in teaching methods.
They do not replace the teacher’s expertise; they enhance it. When a tutor or consultant steps in, they first observe classroom routines. Next, they note areas where learning might lag. Then, recommendations follow. Occasionally, a school faces unique challenges like sudden enrollment changes or budget cuts. That’s where a consultant’s outside knowledge can ease frustrations. They offer solutions based on past successes, but they also adapt to the school’s unique culture. This extra support can allow teachers to focus on what they do best.

Tailoring Guidance for Individual Students

Individual learners each come with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. One might excel at math but struggle with reading. Another could read well yet find science puzzling. Consultants help by building customized plans. Often, these plans include practical steps that consider personal goals.
Some families feel overwhelmed when sorting through online resources or local tutoring services. They may not know which approach works best. A consultant examines the student’s daily habits and academic records. Then, they look at personality, interests, and future career thoughts. These details guide the consultant in suggesting suitable study schedules, books, or even project ideas. By focusing on personal growth, the student gains confidence and a sense of direction.

Key Qualities of a Good Consultant

• Flexibility: Each school or student is different. A consultant with adaptable strategies can switch approaches when needed. • Communication Skills: Someone who can listen well and respond carefully fosters cooperation. • Patience: Not every solution shows results right away. Patience helps the community stay calm and persistent through challenges. • Research Abilities: Understanding teaching trends and proven methods leads to well-grounded advice.
These qualities matter because they shape how a consultant performs. It is not enough to have expertise in a single area. One must also adjust to shifting educational needs. Consultants who blend these traits can be a steady help to teachers, students, and parents.

Possible Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Every consulting project faces potential obstacles. One common issue is limited communication. Some staff members might worry about sharing problems openly. Building trust is vital. Another challenge can be budget constraints. Hiring a consultant sometimes feels like an extra cost. Yet, for many, the long-term benefits justify the initial expense.
Resistance to change is another hurdle. A teacher or parent may dismiss an outside perspective. To tackle this, consultants often hold meetings and show real-life examples of improvement. They explain how slight shifts in strategy can produce major results. If people understand why a change can help, they are more likely to try new approaches. Have you ever seen a classroom transformation happen from just one new policy? It can be quite remarkable.

Where to Begin Your Consulting Journey

Some people ask: Do you need special certification to become a consultant? It varies. Many consultants have previous teaching experience or academic credentials. Some also join professional organizations to connect with others in the field. Networking opens doors to different school systems and tutoring programs. Observing how each operates enhances a consultant’s problem-solving skills.
For schools seeking a consultant, the starting point is clarifying their goals. Is it a curriculum overhaul? Teacher training? Or something else? Once identified, the search for a consultant becomes simpler. Meanwhile, individuals scouting help for personal studies should consider a consultant’s background. Is the focus on career counseling or specific subjects like math or reading? By knowing what is needed, it’s easier to locate the right person.

Building Effective Relationships in Consulting

Strong professional connections are essential. Consultants are not solo fixers. They collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families. Sometimes, they even partner with larger education networks. These relationships thrive when each party respects the other’s experience and perspective.
First, consultants build rapport by listening. They gather insights from those directly involved in teaching or learning. Next, they remain transparent about methods and goals. If a consultant tests a new reading app in the classroom, they explain its purpose. Regular updates keep everyone on the same page. In turn, the school or family shares feedback. This two-way communication ensures adjustments happen promptly. Openness is what transforms short-term solutions into long-term progress.

Conclusion

Providing educational consulting services can be deeply fulfilling. Whether working with entire schools or guiding individual students, consultants bring fresh ideas to traditional settings. They watch for hurdles but also appreciate every small success along the way. Through consistent communication, careful research, and a willingness to adapt, consultants become catalysts for improvement. Schools see better strategies in the classroom, while individuals gain more tailored support.
In the end, it’s about building a learning environment that helps people thrive. That might mean trying new lesson plans or simply offering personalized advice to a struggling student. No universal formula fits every need, but with patience and collaboration, educational consultants fill an important role. Their efforts shape outcomes that reach well beyond a single test or report card, influencing how future generations approach learning.

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In creative projects, unmet expectations can be a recipe for disaster. Even the most exciting project can spiral into frustration if you don’t meet your client’s expectations from the beginning.

Clients may have a clear vision of what they want – Yet, they might underestimate the effort, time, and complexities involved to bring that vision to life.

Managing client expectations can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re working with your first freelance client. However, when you define goals, timelines, and deliverables early on, you help avoid miscommunication and build a trusting relationship with your clients.

In this article, I’ll discuss the eight best practices to help you avoid surprises and deliver work that exceeds client expectations every time.

Let’s dive in.

Why Managing Client Expectations Matters

Setting clear expectations is the foundation for successful creative projects and collaboration. These build trust and ensure that you and your client are on the same page. When everyone understands the project’s scope, timeline, and deliverables, it offers a smooth working flow and avoids confusion down the road.

For example, in corporate video productions, clients often know in advance what aspects of the company they want to share and which guests they want to bring in to participate. However, they may not fully understand the resources and time required or even the budget.

Open communication about deadlines, budgets, and creative options, such as location scouting, script approval, and animation or special effects, will help ensure that the final corporate video meets their expectations.

Or, let’s say your client expects extensive SEO research as part of the writing service without discussing it upfront. Misaligned expectations can lead to scope creep and unpaid additional work. Managing expectations early can save both parties a lot of headaches. Clearly define the writing process, revision rounds, and extra services, like keyword research.

This shows that managing client expectations helps you:

• Stay in control: Well-defined timelines and effective communication give you control over the workflow, reducing last-minute requests.

• Build trust and long-term client relationships: When you set and meet clear expectations, clients are more likely to work with you again (or opt for a recurring monthly project). They might also recommend your services to others.

• Create a win-win situation: Your client knows what to expect if you discuss all your project details, like revisions and timeline. In turn, you have a framework to keep the project on track and reduce unnecessary stress.

How To Manage Client Expectations in Creative Projects

Let’s review the most essential practices for managing client expectations when working on a design, writing, or other creative project.

1. Start with a Thorough Onboarding Process

The first step is to establish a well-structured onboarding process to set the stage for a successful project. This is your chance to clarify expectations and avoid unnecessary confusion. Building a house requires a solid foundation, and if it doesn’t have one, cracks will appear, making it more difficult to fix later.

I learned this the hard way, though. When I started working as a freelance writer, I undertook a project for a client who wanted an article on hand eczema. It sounded simple – just a 1,500-word piece on a topic they provided. Midway through, though, they asked for statistics, additional research, and quotes from industry experts.

None of this was in our initial agreement. I spent far more time than anticipated to refine the article to meet my client’s new expectations. If we’d discussed all the specifics during onboarding, I could have avoided the extra stress and planned well ahead to work on the article and deliver it on time.

So, let’s see what you can do during the onboarding process.

Discuss Project Goals and Deliverables

Schedule a call to discuss the project’s goals and desired outcomes. It’s more than asking what they want – you have to find out the “why” behind their project.

Here’s how to approach it:

• Ask questions: “Who is your target audience”? Or “What’s the primary purpose of this reel? To increase conversions? Drive traffic to your website?”

• Clarify the scope of work: Is the project limited to writing the article? Or does it also include other services, like SEO optimization and revisions?

• Confirm the deliverables: If you’re writing a landing page, agree on the tone and word count. Also, ask about the call-to-action (CTA). Do you want to guide visitors in making a purchase or downloading a PDF guide?

If you’re writing 10 blog posts per month, confirm the number of posts you’re delivering each week, the topics you’re covering, and whether you need to follow their in-house guidelines. This ensures that there are no surprises later.

2. Communicate Clearly

Let me tell you a personal story.

At the beginning of my freelance writing career, I took on a blog project for a client in the wellness space. We agreed on the general topics, but based on our initial conversation, I assumed they wanted a casual tone. After delivering the first draft, I received a long email asking for a complete rewrite in a more formal style.

Looking back, I now understand that all that could have been avoided if I had sent them a short sample or asked about their tone preference before working on the first draft. Now, I always confirm expectations early to save my time and clients’ frustration.

When managing client expectations, clear communication isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. It’s the backbone of every successful project. Without it, even minor miscommunications can cause major setbacks.

Clear communication helps:

• Reduce misunderstandings (as both you and your client know the outcome of the project)
• Keep projects on track
• Build trust—By providing regular updates, you give clients confidence that their project is progressing smoothly and that you’re actively managing everything.

How To Maintain Effective Communication

Strong communication is something you build intentionally. It’s important to update your client so they have a clear idea of what you’re working on. But it’s about making sure that every message is clear and leaves no room for misinterpretation to help keep the project running smoothly.

Here’s how to ensure communication stays on point when working with a client:

• Set a communication cadence: Decide how often you’ll check in to avoid unnecessary anxiety on the client’s side. Will you provide weekly or monthly updates? Or would they prefer regular check-ins? For example, for content creation, sending a weekly summary email might be ideal to keep your clients in the loop.

• Centralize communication: Internal communications tools help you keep everything organized, whether you’re setting deadlines, sharing updates, or handling feedback. Instead of juggling scattered emails or chat messages, you can use a dedicated platform to store project details, track revisions, and ensure everyone stays on the same page. This way, expectations remain realistic, and concerns get addressed before they become bigger issues.

• Encourage feedback: Let your client know that feedback is welcome. Like this, you’ll know whether you’re on the right track and can address issues early. For example, you might ask something along the lines of ‘“Does this logo color work?” or “Is there anything you’d like to change before we move to the next step?” (More on this later).

3. Address Budget and Scope Upfront

Creative projects are exciting, but they often have high budgets and evolving scopes. If you don’t set realistic expectations from the start, this can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or disagreements.

Imagine you’re working with a client on a custom metal garage design. Your client envisions a metal garage with a higher-than-standard height and a specific window design that requires some offsetting of the frame to accommodate the windows. This is where it’s crucial to clearly communicate the structural limitations of the materials, the potential cost implications of those design choices, and the realistic timeline for fabrication and installation.

It may be possible to create the metal garage of their dreams, but it may require specialized engineering or materials that impact the budget or schedule. It’s important to proactively address these possibilities during the design phase, rather than after construction has begun. This way you avoid disappointment and ensure that the client’s vision for their custom metal garage aligns with reality.

Let’s see how you can set budget expectations with your prospective clients.

• Break down costs clearly: List the services you offer along with their costs. Being transparent helps your client understand what they’re paying for and what to prioritize based on their budget. For instance, if you’re creating a website, divide it into SEO, design, development, and testing phases. Then, let the client know which services might incur extra costs (e.g., custom animations).

• Outline what’s included and what’s not: Be specific about the services that are part of the creative project. Also discuss the features considered an extra. For instance, the whole project could include 3 revisions. Beyond that, additional costs may apply.

• Discuss risks or changes: What if materials become unavailable or your client presents new ideas halfway through? Set the expectation that any major changes will require a revised timeline and budget adjustment.

• Put it in writing: Provide your client with a document that includes all the services they’re paying for. This protects both parties and ensures every step is followed. (More on this in the coming section).

Pro tip: Leave room for flexibility. Budgets can change – However, if clients feel informed and in control of decisions, they’ll appreciate your professionalism and transparency. This can lead to a long-term business relationship and repeat referrals.

4. Create a Detailed Project Scope Document

If you’re starting out and working with your first client, you may feel tempted to start working right away. (I know, I’ve been there too).

However, you should first create a project scope document – think of it as a contract, road map, or communication tool outlining what the project includes and what doesn’t.

It provides clarity at every stage of the project, and it can cover the following:

• Project overview: Summarize what the project is about, outline key deliverables, and what the client’s goals are. Write how your work will support achieve that. For instance, if you’re designing a new brand identity specify that logo, color palette, and a typography guide are part of the deliverables. Website design is outside the scope unless it’s agreed upfront.

• Timeline and milestones: Set deadlines for each milestone rather than one final deadline for all deliverables. For example, for a video production project, you could create milestones for script approval, shooting, and editing. (Consider using project management tools like ClickUp or Asana so that the client can track timelines and revisions).

• Revision policy: Define the number of revisions included. Also, clarify what a revision vs a request is and what the costs are. This can save you endless back-and-forth.

• Budget and payment terms: Are you getting paid upfront or after delivery? What are your preferred payment methods? List them down in the project scope document.

5. Set Realistic Timelines

One of the biggest challenges in creative projects is helping clients understand how long things truly take. While clients might have tight deadlines (which is understandable), it’s your job to break down the process for them and explain the time you need to complete each step.

Realistic timelines help balance efficiency with quality. This isn’t just about deadlines; it’s also about managing expectations and trust. Clients love working with someone who knows what they’re doing, and they also get to see where their project stands at any given time.

And as a freelancer myself, I also feel that establishing timelines with clients helps avoid rushed work You know, when you’re rushed, you’re more likely to make mistakes and deliver low-quality results.

These are the factors I usually prioritize to provide my clients with a clear picture of how we’ll be working:

Milestone delivery

Create a timeline of what and when you’ll deliver milestones. For example, if I’m writing one blog article per week for a tech client, my timeline might look something like this:

• Day 1 – Research and outline: I develop a clear structure for the article. This includes the title, keywords, subheadings, and any links I might add.

• Day 2 – First draft: I write the first draft based on the approved outline. I also emphasize that this isn’t the final copy, so it will probably require client feedback.

• Day 3 – Client feedback and revisions: I allow time for the client to review the draft and provide feedback. Then, I implement revisions as needed.

• Day 4 – Final edits: This is the final step before the article goes live. I make sure to polish the content and deliver an error-free copy that aligns with the client’s style and tone.

If you’re a video editor, the project can take longer – one project could take five weeks to complete. In that case, you could plan your project as follows:

Week 1 – Pre-prduction planning and script approval

Week 2 – Filming on location

Week 3 – Editing and implementing feedback

Week 4 – Final revisions and delivery

Buffer Time

Things don’t always go as planned. Add extra time in your project timeline to account for unexpected delays, like tech glitches, project scope changes, or revisions.

Pro tip: Always underpromise or over deliver. If I think that six blog posts will take me three weeks to complete, I give myself four. Finishing early makes you look efficient and keeps clients happy.

6. Use Visual References

When planning creative projects, words alone can lead to misinterpretation. Your idea of a “modern” design could mean something different for your client. Using visual references, like images or other website designs to determine if the client wants something similar can provide more clarity. This helps align your vision with client expectations from the first day.

In addition, this also helps reduce the number of revisions you’ll need to tackle as the project progresses.

Here are some practical tips to help you use visual references effectively:

Create style boards

Style boards are a representation of your project’s final look.

You can use different style boards to pin color schemes, typography samples, and image styles so that the client can have a range of creative directions.

For example, in web design, you can create three style boards: one minimalist and clean – one bold and colorful – and one with a vintage-inspired look. This helps your client select a style that meets their needs before you dive into full-scale design.

Leverage mood boards

Mood boards offer a broader inspirational collage that represents your project’s mood and emotion. Most of the time, you can use them in the early stages of concept development, and you can use them to collect color swatches, music clips, and images.

Let’s say you’re designing a rebrand for a yoga studio. A mood board could feature calming ocean imagery, minimalistic typography, and soft pastels, which create a tranquil, relaxing feel.

Share writing samples

Visual references also come in handy if you offer content writing services. You can provide writing samples or style references to see what style and tone the client is looking for.

For example, if you’re writing a blog article on project management tools, you could share two sample blogs that have already been written – one in a conversational tone – and the other in a more formal tone. Through this, the client can see that you care about the deliverable result and that you can write a blog post that meets their brand’s style.

7. Leverage Feedback Loops

Feedback is key in a creative projects, as you can refine your work and ensure the final product meets your client’s vision. Creating clear feedback loops lets you gather focused input at different stages to avoid multiple revisions.

For example, if you wait until the end to request feedback, you’ll probably have to revise the initial stages so that you can adjust the final copy as needed, which can cost you valuable time.

As part of the feedback loop, make sure to:

Define feedback stages

Break your project into key phrases and request feedback at the end of each milestone. Like this, you’ll catch issues early and keep everything on track.

If you’re writing blog articles, request feedback after submitting the outline, then the first draft, and again after revisions.

If you’re producing a video, request input on the storyboard, rough cut, and final edit.

Document everything

Keep all comments and revisions in one place so that you and your client can easily refer back to them if needed.

Use tools like Google Docs (what I’ve found the most helpful) for revisions. – Clients leave comments and make suggestions on structure, external links, voice, and grammar.

Pro tip: If you’re working on content, run your draft through a grammar checker tool like Wordvice AI or Grammarly before delivery. These help catch mistakes that may slip through manual edits and ensure clarity and professionalism, reinforcing trust with clients.

8. Address Potential Issues

Every project has its own challenges. The key is to spot potential issues early and approach them proactively.

For example, if you’re building a website and notice the client’s content (such as the ‘About’ and ‘Services’ pages) isn’t ready, let them know how this will affect the timeline. You can offer solutions, like temporary placeholder content, to keep the project going.

Leveraging Technology To Stay Ahead

Technology can be your best friend when it comes to flagging and addressing potential issues. Customer management software like Dynamics 365 Customer Insights helps you consolidate data, track preferences, and analyze interactions. This allows you to:

• Predict potential challenges: By analyzing patterns in client behavior, you can identify common bottlenecks and implement preventive measures.

• Deliver tailored experiences: Knowing your client’s preferences helps you make creative decisions aligning with their expectations.

• Enhance collaboration: With centralized data, everyone’s on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and providing a smoother, successful collaboration process.

 Wrapping up

Managing client expectations isn’t only about keeping clients happy – It’s also about ensuring projects run smoothly and delivering high-quality results. To position yourself as a creative professional, focus on setting clear expectations, asking for feedback, and addressing potential challenges upfront.

This isn’t a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing process that evolves with every project you create. However, with these practical strategies, you’re well-equipped to handle any issues that might come your way.

Want more tips on freelancing? Visit Millo’s blog page – From making passive income to handling multiple projects, it has a lot of resources to help you grow as a one-person company.

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With remote work becoming increasingly common, more and more people are seeking work-from-home jobs. However, not everyone is prepared for the challenges of working remotely, such as handling tasks with minimal supervision. Cultivating remote skills, such as self-discipline, can help you tackle these challenges and boost your productivity, career success, and professional growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned remote worker or someone dreaming of landing their first remote role, keep reading—in this article, we will share a remote skills checklist to help you excel in the virtual work environment.

5 Essential Remote Work Skills

Every position comes with specific role-related skill requirements. However, to excel as a work-from-home employee, you should also have strong remote work abilities, such as self-discipline, communication, and tech proficiency.

Here’s a remote skills checklist that encompasses the essential qualities you need to stay productive and thrive while working from home:

#1. Self-Discipline & Time Management

According to Buffer’s 2023 State of Remote Work report, 58% of remote workers see flexibility as the biggest benefit of working remotely. While remote roles allow you to choose your preferred work location and, if you’re lucky, your schedule, staying focused and productive can be challenging when there’s no one looking over your shoulder.

This is precisely why self-discipline and self-motivation are critical remote skills; as a remote worker, you should be able to get your job done with little to no supervision. Time management is just as important: meeting deadlines without sacrificing your work-life balance is key to thriving in a remote work environment.

#2. Communication Skills

Effective communication is among the most important soft skills across all industries, and remote work is no different. As a remote worker, you should know how to get your thoughts across clearly and succinctly via email, instant messages, and video calls, among other relevant communication methods.

Developing cultural awareness is also essential, as many remote teams operate globally. Paired with strong written and verbal communication skills, cultural competence can help you avoid miscommunication and foster a positive, stress-free, and inclusive work environment.

#3. Tech Proficiency

Tech proficiency is an indispensable remote skill. While you don’t have to be a tech buff, you should be comfortable with any remote tools your company uses to collaborate, manage work progress, and get the work done.

Some examples of tools remote workers should be familiar with include:

• File-sharing tools (e.g., Google Drive and Dropbox)
• Video conferencing software, such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams
• Project management and collaboration tools like Trello, Slack, Asana, and ClickUp

If you’re looking to land a remote job, don’t forget to tailor your resume to a specific job ad and list any tools the company mentions in the job description to boost your chances.

#4. Problem-Solving & Adaptability

As a remote worker, you might not always have someone to consult with right away when things don’t go as planned. Therefore, you’ll inevitably run into situations where you’ll have to make decisions or tackle problems without much (or any) other people’s guidance.

For this reason, adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and analytical thinking can be critical to your success in a remote workplace. In fact, most companies offering remote work expect their employees to be comfortable working and solving problems independently or with little supervision.

#5. Collaboration & Teamwork

The last item on our remote skills checklist—collaboration and teamwork—may come as a surprise for some. After all, most remote workers tackle their tasks independently in the comfort of their own home.

However, this doesn’t mean you won’t have to cooperate with others. On the contrary, remote teams are often quite large and cross-cultural, making willingness to collaborate with others non-negotiable. Also, the best remote workers are not only team-oriented but also capable of finding ways to work efficiently across different time zones.

The Importance of Productivity and Work-Life Balance

Striking a middle ground between productivity and work-life balance is one of the key challenges of remote work, yet it should be your top priority. Otherwise, your work performance may take a hit or, alternatively, bring you to the brink of workplace burnout.

Here are some tips that can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance while working remotely:

• Set boundaries with your loved ones to minimize interruptions.
• Create a dedicated workspace to separate work from your personal life.
• Schedule regular breaks to rest, have lunch, exercise, and refresh your mind.
• If your job offers a flexible schedule, set precise work hours and inform your colleagues about your availability.
• Disconnect from work once you’re done for the day and avoid checking emails or messages outside work hours.

How to Assess & Improve Your Remote Skills

There are various online resources and self-assessment tools you can use to assess your remote skills. Employers often use tools like digital skills tests, critical thinking tests, or even personality tests to evaluate candidates’ competencies when seeking the right people to fill remote positions.

If you believe your remote skills are sub-par, it’s never too late to improve them. There’s no shortage of online courses—such as those offered at Grow with Google—designed to help people prepare for and excel at remote work. Many of these also come with certificates you can add to your resume to stand out from other candidates!

Final Thoughts

Work from home is, without a doubt, the future of work. The skills needed to land remote roles and excel in them may change as digitalization and automation continue to shape and reshape the job market.

If you master the abilities listed in our remote skills checklist, though, you can rest assured you’ll be ready to reap the benefits of remote work. Still, don’t forget to continuously evaluate and improve your remote skills—this will help you secure long-term career success and stay competitive in the ever-changing work landscape!

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When I started managing freelance teams, shift planning wasn’t on my radar. I assumed availability would sort itself out if everyone stayed in communication. That worked—until it didn’t.

One week, two contractors missed their scheduled hours. One had the wrong time zone on her calendar. The other simply forgot. I ended up covering their shifts myself, answering support tickets well past midnight. That’s when I realized I needed a real shift planning system, not just emails and Slack messages.

Freelancers can absolutely support consistent operations. I’ve seen it firsthand across projects in customer service, design, and editorial work. But if their shifts aren’t scheduled clearly and consistently, small issues start stacking up. Gaps in coverage. Slow response times. Rising labor costs from last-minute fixes.

Planning ahead solves most of it. You don’t need anything elaborate—just a structure that matches your business requirements and keeps shift schedules visible, flexible, and fair.

1. Build Scheduling Around Availability, Not Assumptions

Unlike full-time staff, freelancers often work with multiple clients. They might be available on Tuesday one week and not the next. Assuming availability without regular check-ins can lead to gaps in shift coverage or unfulfilled shifts. Start with a shared calendar or scheduling platform that freelancers can update directly. Ask for availability updates weekly or biweekly, depending on your volume.

This method also minimizes the need for last-minute changes. If you receive consistent updates, you can prepare schedules early and give advanced notice on upcoming time slots. Freelancers appreciate knowing their schedules early, especially if they’re balancing several projects. It also gives you time to identify days with limited availability and find backup plans before issues come up.

2. Use a Shift Planning Solution With Real Time Flexibility

Managing rotating shifts and time-sensitive roles without a tool that updates in real time creates bottlenecks. A shift planning solution like https://www.myshyft.com/employee-scheduling/ helps streamline this process by offering features like real time updates, shift swap capabilities, and centralized team communication. You avoid scattered conversations across emails and texts, and instead track everything within one system.

This approach makes it easier to cover sudden changes. For example, if a freelancer calls out sick during peak demand, a shift swap feature lets others pick up the slot quickly. Real time updates notify everyone involved so there’s no confusion around shift responsibilities. This reduces pressure on managers and improves freelancer satisfaction, especially during busy seasons.

3. Prioritize Skills Matching Over Availability Alone

Not every freelancer is equipped for every task. Shift planning software should allow you to tag freelancers based on agent skills or qualifications. This prevents assigning someone to a shift they’re not trained for, which can hurt the customer experience or delay project timelines.

Let’s say you run a customer service operation that supports extended business hours. If someone is only trained on one product line, they shouldn’t be placed on night shifts covering multiple verticals. Skills-based scheduling makes this easy to filter. It’s also useful during high-demand periods when fast response times are expected, like product launches or holiday surges.

4. Include Buffer Time for Handoffs and Breaks

Freelancers working in shifts often miss out on formalized transition time. For roles that require documentation, briefings, or tech handoffs, it helps to build buffer time into the shift pattern. This can also apply to meal breaks or lunch hours, especially if you’re running operations across different time zones.

Without proper buffers, coverage gaps start to add up. You may also run into compliance issues depending on labor laws in your area. Make sure you understand how those regulations apply to freelancers, as misclassification or unpaid time issues could become legal risks. In some cases, providing buffer time and formal breaks can also improve freelancer engagement and reduce attrition costs.

5. Standardize Your Shift Patterns and Expectations

If every shift is managed differently, freelancers will need constant re-orientation, which wastes time. Instead, create standardized shift patterns that outline what’s expected during each shift. This could include required tools, communication channels, reporting formats, or service-level expectations.

When freelancers know what each type of shift entails, they can jump in faster without draining extra time on onboarding. It also reduces dependency on specific individuals. Anyone trained in the pattern can step in easily, which helps maintain consistency and reduce scheduling gaps. This improves your ability to offer flexible shifts while still maintaining a consistent output.

6. Address Attrition Risk With Smart Scheduling

Irregular shift schedules can contribute to burnout or dissatisfaction among agents, especially for freelancers who also work elsewhere. Sudden long hours of overtime, frequent weekend shifts, or changing night shifts can push contractors to deprioritize their work.

If you notice this happening, analyze your scheduling history. Are certain people always stuck with undesirable time slots? Do some agents get significantly fewer shifts than others? A shift planning solution can help you identify patterns that contribute to uneven workloads or decreased retention rates.

Incorporate feedback loops into your schedule planning. Ask freelancers which days or time slots they prefer. While you won’t always meet every request, knowing general preferences helps distribute shifts more fairly and reduces turnover.

7. Track Time and Performance, Not Just Hours

Clocking in and out is only part of the picture. In shift-based freelance work, you also need to track time against outputs. For example, a two-hour shift might result in one completed support ticket or twenty-five, depending on the agent’s skill, focus, and system efficiency.

Look at actual outcomes alongside scheduled hours. You may find that one freelancer consistently needs extra time to complete basic tasks. That could indicate a mismatch in skills or a need for additional training. On the flip side, you may find top performers who could handle more responsibility or be considered for longer shifts.

Use this data to optimize shift schedules and labor costs. Assign longer shifts to efficient freelancers and reserve shorter shifts for those still getting up to speed. This balances productivity and reduces the need for additional staffing.

8. Forecast Demand Accurately for Busy Seasons

Freelancers often step in during peak demand periods. To get the most out of that support, you need accurate forecasting. Look at historical data to identify when your busiest weeks happen, how long each engagement lasts, and which roles experience the most pressure.

From there, map out how many freelancers you need per shift. Don’t rely on guesswork or last year’s plan. If your business has grown, customer demand may be higher, and you might need more hands on deck. Use your shift planning software to simulate schedules before publishing them. That way, you catch potential gaps early.

You should also plan extra time around transitions. For example, right after a campaign launch, you might expect more questions or service tickets. Build in additional staffing not just for the day of the launch but for the week that follows.

9. Include Backup Plans in Every Shift Group

No matter how solid your schedule looks on paper, last-minute changes happen. People get sick, miss alarms, or forget to check their schedule. Especially with freelancers working remotely, it helps to build redundancy into your plans.

Assign shadow shifts or on-call freelancers to your busiest periods. These are paid at a reduced hourly rate unless activated. That way, you’re not scrambling when someone drops out. You can also rotate this responsibility so it’s shared evenly instead of falling on the same people every time.

This kind of structure reduces stress for everyone involved. Managers get peace of mind, and freelancers feel like the system is fair and respectful of their time.

10. Communicate Shift Changes Clearly and Quickly

Team communication is often overlooked in freelancer management. When a shift schedule changes, your freelancers should be notified immediately. Relying on emails alone can lead to missed updates, especially if the shift starts soon.

Use centralized platforms that offer mobile notifications or direct messages. It would be even better if freelancers could acknowledge the change within the system. This keeps your team aligned without requiring long message threads or repeated pings.

Clarity helps freelancers feel more confident about showing up for their shifts. It also improves coordination across time zones, departments, or client accounts.

11. Reward Agents Who Go Above and Beyond

Recognition can go a long way in freelance scheduling. If you have agents who consistently take on difficult time slots, offer to give them priority on high-paying shifts in the next cycle. If someone covers an unexpected shift swap at the last minute, reward them with a first pick on future time slots.

These small acts of acknowledgment show that you value their time and flexibility. It can also lead to stronger relationships and better shift coverage over time. When freelancers know their effort matters, they’re more likely to stay engaged and responsive.

Getting Freelance Scheduling Right Takes Intention

Freelancers give you flexibility, but that flexibility only works if your scheduling process is organized and responsive. Unclear expectations, inconsistent shift patterns, or last-minute coordination can lead to missed coverage and rising labor costs.

The more structure you apply to shift planning, the more value you’ll get from your freelance workforce. That means using tools that support real time scheduling, shift swap capabilities, and skills-based assignments. It also means paying attention to details like meal breaks, night shifts, and preferred time slots.

Planning ahead helps reduce attrition costs, improve performance, and offer a better experience for both workers and customers. Freelancers who feel respected and well-scheduled are more likely to stay available during peak demand, cover shifts with short notice, and contribute to smoother operations overall. Put systems in place now, and you’ll spend far less time fixing problems later.

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