A Day In The Life Of A Freelance Web Developer: Tristan Bailey

by | May 11, 2015 | A Day In The Life Of A Freelancer | 1 comment

Tristan BaileyTell us a bit about you!

I’m a freelance web developer – mostly PHP, Joomla, WP, ee and UX. I’m based in Brighton and sometimes Germany.

How long have you been freelancing, and why did you start?

3 years. I started as I was planning it and then my company let me go before I could leave, so that made my mind up.

Let’s talk about the start of your day – are you an early riser, or a night owl?

Early up but I have kids to get ready so I only start at 9. I often rest at the end of the day after putting them to bed, then work from 10 or 12 for few a hours.

Do you work from home?

Mostly

What’s your working routine before you start work?

Sort the kids and get them to kindy and then make coffee.

[themify_quote]When I collect the kids we can do lunch together.” [/themify_quote]

Do you take a lunch break?

When I collect the kids so we can do lunch together.

How do you tend to spend your afternoons?

50% of the time I get to work after 3pm when the kids are home.

How do you keep motivated? Do you have any particular techniques?

Music and exercise, and talking to other people to realise I need to get on. Sometimes it’s hard when a client is dragging out a job to what is, by then, free work.

[themify_quote]Sometimes it’s hard when a client is dragging out a job to what is, by then, free work.” [/themify_quote]

What time do you tend to sign off for the day?

Between 4pm and 8pm.

Tell us – what’s your favourite thing about freelancing?

Being in control of work and meeting new challenges.

And your least favourite thing about freelancing?

Starting again, judging new jobs and chasing clients to invoice consistently.

What tools/apps/gadgets/things could you not live without as a freelancer?

iPhone, Gmail and FreeAgent.

Where can we find you online?

Twitter: @tristanbailey

Website: http://holdingbay.co.uk

I’m currently trying to build an analytics paid service as a product.

The Big Question – What’s the secret to your success?

Networking and having contacts before starting freelancing.

Want to take part in the Day In The Life Of A Freelancer series? Simply fill in this form


All about Emma Cossey

I’m a long-term freelancer, mum and all round digital geek, and I’m happy to welcome you to The Freelance Lifestyle. I launched this blog in 2011, to provide freelancers with down-to-earth support, and practical advice. I wanted it to be a kind, supportive place to get tips and advice on living a great freelance life. I’ve been a pro blogger, a social media consultant, a copywriter, a teacher… but my passion is helping people just like you take the next step. So whether you want to pick up tips from the blog, listen in to the podcast, come join the Facebook group or get some more focused 1-2-1 support with my coaching, there’s something here for you.

You can find out more about Everything I do here

Summer Break: What Do You Want to Hear Next?

I’m taking a short summer break from the podcast while I rethink what’s next. Here’s why I’m pressing pause and how you can help shape future episodes.

My iPhone Podcast Recording Hack

Discover a simple iPhone podcasting hack that improves audio quality and creates transcripts using the built-in Voice Memos app on iPhone 16 and later.

Underpromise, Overdeliver: My Secret to Business Success

Discover why underpromising and overdelivering is one of the best habits freelancers can adopt for happier clients, less stress and stronger relationships.

How Much Should You Charge As A Freelancer?

Wondering how much to charge as a freelancer? Explore trusted resources for researching freelance rates, comparing prices and setting sustainable fees.

Freelance Realities: Not Just the Glossy Highlights

Freelancing isn’t always easy. Discover why quieter months are normal, how to build a more resilient business, and why you’re not alone if work feels harder right now.

Discovery Call Scams: What Freelancers Need to Watch Out For

Discovery call scams are becoming more common. Discover the warning signs, simple checks to make, and how freelancers can protect themselves.

Tax-Free Childcare & Summer Holiday Survival Tips for Freelancers

Tax-free childcare can make a real difference for self-employed parents. Discover practical tips for managing childcare, holiday clubs and summer work schedules.

How to Respond to Free Work Requests (Without Feeling Awkward)

Learn how to respond to free work requests without feeling awkward. Discover when to say no, when unpaid work might be worthwhile, and how to protect your time and value as a freelancer.

Tiny Ways to Outsource (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)

Learn how to start outsourcing in your business without feeling overwhelmed. Discover small, practical tasks you can delegate, from email and social media to bookkeeping and scheduling, to save time, reduce stress, and build consistency.

3 Ways I’m Finding New Clients in May 2026

Looking for new freelance clients? Discover 3 simple ways I’m finding more clients this May using AI SEO, Google Business updates, and LinkedIn.

Want to know more about how I can help?

See everything I offer and sign up to my newsletter for more advice and recommendations on running your freelance business!

Show me more!