Freelancing has become a very popular career choice for a lot of people. There are many benefits to this way of working. Being your own boss and controlling your own workload can be very liberating.
But being in control of everything also has its pressures too. Now that you're working for yourself, you need to make sure you're as healthy as possible.
You do not have the luxury of falling back on the medical leave or sick pay policies of an employer.
Get income protection insurance
If you were in an accident or had a serious illness that meant you couldn't work for an extended period, how would you cope financially? Income protection insurance has been designed to provide you with a percentage of your usual income in the event that you can't work.
Depending on the policy you take out, you can be covered for a period of a few months right up until retirement.
Deal with any chronic or long-term illnesses
Living with a chronic condition is often a reason for people moving to freelance. The flexibility of being able to work around your condition can take the pressure off. Employers might not be so accommodating. By getting an effective treatment plan or lifestyle changes in place, you can make the best of the situation. You may also have the time to incorporate additional treatments such as massage, Delta 8 vapes, CBD oil, or acupuncture.
Get into good habbits
It's easy to slip into bad habbits when you're setting up your own business. Long hours, poor nutrition, and little exercise can soon add up to have a terrible impact on your health. As you become less healthy, you are more likely to need to take time off due to illness. When you are at work, you'll be less productive.
Three things that will make the most difference are eating a healthy, balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of downtimes. By making this a consistent part of your life, you'll feel healthier, get less sick, and reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in other areas of your life.
Set up your workspace correctly
Your working environment has a huge effect on your overall health. A poor desk setup can lead to eye strain, headaches, muscle stiffness, and back pain.
Set up your home office so that you have plenty of natural light and fresh air. Buy a supportive, ergonomic chair and set it up for your height and desk.
Rather than hunching over a laptop, buy a good-sized monitor and make sure that your eyes are roughly level with the top of the screen.
Keep your most regularly used items within easy reach and keep the workspace clear and tidy.
Look after your mental health too
Your mental health is just as important. By creating clear work/life boundaries and not overworking, you can avoid burnout. If you feel like you potentially have a mental health condition, then visit your doctor who will be able to refer you to the relevant specialist. Protecting your mental state will mean that you are able to focus on your work when you need to.
When you are a freelancer, you need to keep yourself as healthy as possible so that you are working productively and taking less time off as a result.
If you work freelance, what tips do you have for other freelancers or people considering the freelance life, on keeping a healthy lifestyle? Let me know in the comments.
Love Beth xx