Jason Coles and Self Care When Covering Video Games | Winter Spectacular 2020
One thing that nobody really tells you about freelancing is that you’re going to spend a lot of it either terrified that you’re never going to get work again, or snowed-in under so much work that you’ll be doing seven-day workweeks. There is, theoretically, a happy medium, but it rarely manifests, and that’s especially true in a year like this one where the level of uncertainty was higher than ever.
With all of that in mind, it’s incredibly important to look after yourself. It’s not an easy thing to do, and while lots of people might tell you to take breaks or to not work too hard, the reality is that not having a stable job with things like paid time off and sick days, will likely turn you into an overworker.
I can’t tell you a way to keep a healthy level of work because, frankly, I don’t think it can be done. However, I can give you some rules to follow that will help you look after yourself. It’s easy for me to write this, but it’s down to you to follow these things to keep yourself healthy.
For the record, in a previous job I was a Personal Trainer, so I do know a bit about health and welfare. I do a lot of guide writing too, and that’s basically how we’ve all ended up here with a bunch of tips on how to look after yourself. Also, and I’m gonna just be honest here, I don’t always follow these tips because I’m an idiot.
Meg gets that you need to be able to separate work and life.
Set Boundaries
The first tip is to set boundaries that you actually follow. That means having a time when you finish work and sticking to it. It means having at least two days off a week and actually taking the time to relax during them. It also means things like not checking your email if you can help it, and taking breaks during your working day where you go for a walk or something. Also, try not to eat at your desk.
There’s no reason to run from one work project to another if you’re not at least getting a run outside every-now-and-again.
Exercise
Look, I mentioned I was a PT, so it’s natural this is going to be one of the entries. Try and carve out between thirty and sixty minutes a day to do some exercise. What that exercise is is entirely up to you. That means if you’re into weights you can lift up some heavy things and put them back down again. If you like running, get out the damn door. Honestly, even just a small walk or a couple of squats is better than nothing at all. Just do a little bit because this is not an active job.
We all love Dusa, but all that worrying will be the death of her.
Don’t Worry
Lol. Look, this one is impossible, I know it is. I’m stupid enough to do freelancing while also providing for a family, it’s not easy to not worry about taking every gig that comes your way. However, you will find more work, and a mistake doesn’t mean nobody will work with you again, and there is always more work out there, even if it can be tough to find it. Try not to worry, I know it’s hard, but try.
No matter how unconventional, get yourself a support network!
Talk to People
For the love of god talk to other freelancers and writers. Nobody in normal life is going to understand most of what you do, you need people who do. So, find groups to talk in, make your own havens and space to chat with people. Just, you know, don’t be too weird about it if you’re chatting to people for the first time.
Zag is a growing boy and I feel he could do with a few more hours rest.
GET SOME FUCKING SLEEP
Listen up. All of the above is pointless if you’re not sleeping. Get eight hours a night if you can or however much you need. Get that rest and relaxation. If you have trouble sleeping, practice meditation, do martial arts, exercise, get yourself nice and tired. No phones or games in bed. Just get sleep, please.
I’m not saying all of the House of Hades issues could have been fixed with a good long chat once a week with a professional, but it couldn’t of hurt.
Therapy
Just go to therapy. This is a life hack, go to therapy.
