How to practice self-care when you work long and mad hours as a freelancer. It’s not easy, is it? From working lates to eating cr*ap, it’s hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle when you’re feeling like an exhausted vampire.
This crazy industry we work in can be demanding and tiring and it can be easy to neglect your own well-being in the process. Freelancers aren’t known for their ability to say no to work as who knows when the next gig will come along. However, practising self-care is crucial for maintaining your sanity as well as health, happiness, and productivity. Here are a few of our favourite tips for consideration.
- Prioritise sleep. If only. Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining your physical and mental health, but it can be challenging when you work long hours as a freelancer. Try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, and create a ‘relaxing bedtime routine’. A fancy way of saying “don’t lie there doom-scrolling on Twitter when instead you could be listening to a nice audiobook or podcast”.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise is important for maintaining your physical and mental health, but it can be difficult to find the time and energy when you work long hours. To make exercise more manageable, try to find activities that you enjoy and that fit a little easier into your schedule. This can include things like walking, running, yoga, or dancing. You can also try to incorporate movement into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the lifts or going for a walk during your lunch break.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is important for maintaining your energy and focus, but it can be difficult to find the time and motivation to cook when you work long hours or are constantly on location surrounded by catering trucks. To make eating healthy easier, try to plan and prepare your meals in advance, take them with you if necessary, and try to keep healthy snacks on hand for when you’re on the go. You know the deal – incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet, and limit processed and junk foods. Red Bull and an apple is not a diet people!
- Take regular breaks. Working long hours can be mentally and emotionally exhausting, so it’s important to take regular breaks to recharge and renew. This can include things like taking a short walk, meditating, or spending time with friends and family. You can also try to incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing, stretching, or journaling. By taking regular breaks, you can reduce stress and burnout, and you can maintain your energy and focus.
- Seek support and connection. Freelancing can often be isolating and lonely, so it’s important to seek support and connection from others. This can include things like joining a professional association or networking group, attending events and conferences, or talking to friends and family about your challenges and successes. You can also try to connect with other freelancers online, through forums, social media, or online communities. By seeking support and connection, you can reduce isolation and loneliness, and you can build a supportive network of professionals who can help you to thrive. And vice versa.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need some guidance, get in touch, and we’ll help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence using our award-winning Equa Approach® from Jo and Liz at Fusion Film and TV.