You Can Only Choose Two

by | Apr 17, 2025 | The Freelancer's Teabreak Podcast

Are you a freelancer juggling the demands of your work while dreaming of a smoother, more efficient workflow? In this week’s post, we dive into the essential tools and comforts that can transform your freelance experience. From the must-have reliable Wi-Fi to the dream of instant testimonials, discover which two essentials top your list and why they matter. Join us as we explore the quirks and wishes of the freelance lifestyle – it’s a bit of fun, but your productivity might just thank you!

Listen to the podcast episode below, watch it on [Youtube], or scroll down for the summary!


Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!

When you’re a freelancer, there are certain non-negotiables that just have to work in order for your day to run smoothly  – and when they don’t? Well, let’s just say the kettle gets a lot of use!

In this week’s episode of the Freelancers Tea Break, I’m sharing a little rant-turned-reflection inspired by my own tech troubles. Spoiler alert: unreliable Wi-Fi might be the quickest way to unravel a freelancer’s day.

But it also got me thinking – what are the true essentials we can’t live without as freelancers? I’m not talking about big, lofty goals here. I’m talking about the day-to-day things that keep us going (and sane). I’ve made a little list – and I want to know, which two would you pick as your must-haves?


My Ultimate Freelance Essentials List (Pick Your Top Two!)

Here’s what made the shortlist of freelance fantasy must-haves:

  1. Reliable Wi-Fi
    It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. A solid connection is the bedrock of a functioning freelance business – especially if you’re constantly in Zoom meetings or uploading large files.

  2. Caffeine
    Whether it’s tea, coffee, or a cheeky Red Bull, this one fuels a lot of us. Is it in your top two?

  3. A Fully Charged Laptop (Always!)
    Ever jumped on a client call and realised your laptop is clinging to 3% battery? It’s not the drama we need.

  4. Never Having to Say “You’re on Mute” Again
    Imagine a world where Zoom mishaps are a thing of the past. Glorious.

  5. A Comfy Chair
    Whether you’re in your home office or curled up on the sofa like a pretzel (guilty), comfort is productivity’s best friend.

  6. Invoices Paid Immediately
    No chasing. No waiting. Just instant cash flow. It’s dreamy, right?

  7. Instant Testimonials
    The client finishes working with you and – boom – a glowing review lands in your inbox. Sounds like magic, but a good system (like Dubsado!) can get you pretty close.

  8. A Self-Cleaning (or Self-Tidying) House
    Because “cleaning” is often code for “procrastinating.” Just me?

  9. A Client Who Knows Exactly What They Want
    Vague feedback is the enemy of productivity. A dream client gives direction and constructive feedback you can actually work with.

  10. A Lunch Robot
    File this under ‘fantasy’ – but how amazing would it be to have lunch just appear when you’re in the flow?


So, What Would You Choose?

This week’s podcast was a fun one – a little reminder that while freelancing gives us lots of freedom, it also comes with everyday quirks and irritations. But having a little wishlist helps us laugh about it all (and maybe work towards a few of them too).

Your Turn:

Which two from this list would you choose as your must-haves? Drop a comment below, message me on Instagram, or share it in your Stories and tag me – I’d love to see what tops your essentials list!

And if you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with a fellow freelancer, or leave a little review – it helps more lovely listeners find us.

Until next time, have a wonderful freelance week!

My Dubsado Affiliate link: http://dubsado.com/?c=freelancelifestyle

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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

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