This week’s Weekly Freelance Challenge is an easy one. In theory.
This week, I want you to schedule in some tech-free time. Whether it be an evening, a day or a whole weekend. Personally, I think one of the hardest things about freelancing is switching off from work. Mainly because the constant stream of tweets, Facebook notifications, emails and stats are addictive.
So! Switch off your computer, pop your phone on silent (or even better, I dare ya!, turn it off) and ignore your iPad for a few hours. Now go do something fun.
Use that free time to do something fun. Like:
- Take the time to cook a meal with your partner/friends/family, and sit down at the table together to eat it. While you’re cooking, you might want to do some meal planning.
- Make a list of Christmas presents to buy. I adore this spreadsheet idea from A Thrifty Mrs (but do it on paper for now)
- Go for a walk somewhere. It’s autumn, perfect for nature walks. I’m putting together a nice little board of autumnal delights on Pinterest.
- All those Pinterest craft tutorials you’ve been saving up? Print them out before you turn off your computer, then do one or two of them.
- Catch up with friends. Go shopping. Have a pampering session. Hit a workout class together. Y’know, take the socialisation offline.
- Volunteer. I rounded up some of the best fun ways to get involved with your community over on Dork Adore, and if you’re 14-25 there are plenty of opportunities on Vinspired too.
- Have a whole day in bed, with a stack of magazines, books, your favourite food and, if you must, your favourite box set. It’s tech, but not quite as bad as your computer, iPhone or iPad.
- If you have to do something work-related, get on with your accounts or give your desk a spring clean.
Do anything. Just don’t check your emails.