I’ve been a freelance writer for roughly seven years, and during this time I’ve created thousands of articles on different topics. But up until two years ago, I completed all my work on a desktop computer located in our home office. The computer had everything I needed–Internet, Microsoft Office, etc.

For years I expressed my wishes for a laptop computer. But for whatever reason, I kept putting off the purchase and spent my money elsewhere. I wanted a laptop, but I didn’t necessarily need one. And because I didn’t work on a laptop, I didn’t know what I was missing.

I received a surprise call in October 2007. My husband was browsing the aisles of Best Buy and came across an amazing deal. The store had a sale on Gateway laptops; and because he’s adventurous, he decided to purchase two laptops.

Naturally, I had mixed feelings. On one hand I was excited and happily surprised to finally own a laptop. But on the other hand, I freaked at the idea of whimsically buying two laptops. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a say in the manner. And since that day two years ago, I’ve worked solely on my laptop and quickly neglected my trusted desktop.

My tune has definitely changed. Before, I saw laptops as an unnecessary luxury. Nowadays, it’s a life necessity. I don’t know why, but for some odd reason, work has become more enjoyable and I’ve become more productive. No longer am I confined to a single location, and I love the freedom of selecting my workspace.

I can work in bed if I feel sluggish or lazy, and I can move outdoors if I want a little fresh air. And although I don’t advocate this, laptops provide the option of staying in contact with clients while on vacation.

So, is there a better option? I guess it all depends on your preference and needs. But in my experience, I’ve never met a freelancer who could live without their laptop.