Pace Yourself and Avoid Burn Out

As a freelancer, I’m no stranger to a hectic schedule. During my earlier writing days I would work around the clock - mornings, evenings, and weekends. I didn’t view myself as a workaholic. Rather, I was working toward a goal. I wanted to eliminate unnecessary debt. Plus, my husband and I were looking to buy our first place and I wanted to save for a down payment.

Once I reached my financial goals, I took a step back from my freelance business. I didn’t stop the business or move to a new venture. Instead, I learned how to set limits and pace myself.

Being a freelancer has its ups and downs. While the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, the negative aspects of telecommute life can cause physical and mental stress. When you work for someone else, the workday normally ends at 5:00, in which you leave the office and go home to your family. When you work for yourself, the office might be your bedroom, dining room table, or spare bedroom. Your computer, desk, and files are easily accessible, and there’s always the tendency to work. And if you’re not careful, you’ll eventually burn out.

It doesn’t matter whether you work overtime to make ends meet or get rid of debt - you’ve got to pace yourself and take breaks. I learned this lesson the hard way. As I result, I developed symptoms of carpal tunnel, and there were days when I couldn’t type or even grasp a heavy object. In addition, I dealt with eye strain, dry eyes, and an annoying eye twitch that lasted for two months - that’s what happens when you stare at a computer screen for hours a day. Happily, it was all temporary.

Did I achieve my financial goals? Yes.

Was it worth the physical side effects? No.

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