Happy Friday everyone! Want to peek into the daily diary of another freelancer? Excellent – today, we’ve got the lovely Cathryn Clarke…
Tell us a bit about you!
My name is Cathryn and I help small/medium sized businesses improve their online presence. I am a social media manager and trainer and WordPress site creator.
How long have you been freelancing, and why did you start?
I have been freelancing for about 3 years. I started when I left my previous teaching job because I fancied a change and wanted to be my own boss.
Let’s talk about the start of your day – Are you an early riser, or a night owl?
I’m an early riser, I get up about 6.30am, do some exercise, walk the dog and straighten the house.
What time do you start work?
I start work at about 9am. I can’t shake the old habits of working regular hours!
Do you work from home?
I do, though occasionally I’ll work in cafes, but I find that can be quite distracting.
What’s your working routine before you start work?
Up. Do some pilates, walk the dog, breakfast, wash up and do a few chores then start work.
Do you take a lunch break?
I do, though sometimes I’ll eat it at my desk reading through blogs. It’s a bad habit that I’m trying to break.
How do you tend to spend your afternoons?
I always have a break at about 3.30 and try to split my time up so that the last part of the day is for me, blogging, reading about changes in social media, taking part in a course. I try to finish work by 5pm so that I can walk the dog etc, but if I’ve wasted time in the afternoon, I find I’ll work later to compensate.
How do you motivated? Do you have any particular techniques?
This is a tricky one and I have to admit I’m struggling with it. I know what I want to achieve but I find that I’m putting big things off, like revamping my website. I’ve got a few quiet weeks now so am hoping that I’ll make myself do it.
What time do you tend to sign off for the day?
I try to finish by 5pm, at the very latest 6pm. However, I do not work in the evenings or at weekends, unless its personal development like a course or blogging. I’ve done that, working 14 hour days and it’s not fun for anyone!
Tell us – what’s your favourite thing about freelancing?
Freedom. I know I can work from anywhere and when my mum broke her arm last year, I could go and stay with her to help her out, without needing to take time off.
And your least favourite thing about freelancing?
Being accountable to no one but yourself. I’m a really harsh critic and there’s no one to tell me I’m doing a good job or share ideas with on a day to day basis.
What tools/apps/gadgets/things could you not live without as a freelancer?
My trusty Filofax, my iPhone and my home office.
Where can we find you online?
Website, Twitter, and Facebook
The Big Question – What’s the secret to your success?
Taking every opportunity that comes my way, whether I think I’ll enjoy it or not. Sometimes it pays off, sometimes it doesn’t but it helps to know what you want to do and what you’re not willing to do for money!
And a little extra…
I’ve been doing the Secret of Brands course on Futurelearn (Editor note – it’s a fab site that offers free online university courses), which has been amazing but I’ve just discovered Skillshare and will be doing a hand lettering course when the Futurelearn course is over.
