You’re juggling clients, projects, and ever-present procrastination. Why do some freelancers seem to fit in more during their days than others and still have time to post it on social media? While tools such as the Pomodoro Technique and time blocking are valuable, here we share some lesser-known tricks and tactics freelancers can use to boost productivity and reclaim back time to accomplish more every day
1. The “pre-crastination” power move
We’ve all heard of procrastination, but what about its proactive cousin? Pre-crastination involves tackling small tasks immediately as they arise. Answer that quick email, file that document, or send that invoice the moment you think of it. This prevents tiny tasks from snowballing into an overwhelming avalanche.
2. The “mind sweep” declutter
Just like a physical declutter, a “mind sweep” clears mental space. Spend 10 minutes jotting down everything on your mind – work tasks, personal to-dos, nagging worries. This externalises your mental load, freeing up cognitive resources for focused work. Categorise and prioritise your list to further enhance clarity.
3. Harness the Zeigarnik effect
This not-easy-to-pronounce psychological principle states that unfinished tasks stay lodged in our memory. According to Psychology Today, intentionally leaving a task slightly incomplete can boost your focus when you return to it. Start a project outline, write the first paragraph of an article, or code the initial function, then take a break. You’ll likely find yourself drawn back with renewed energy.
4. The “temptation timer”
Social media, news sites, an ddictive game on your phone, these distractions are productivity’s nemesis. Instead of complete deprivation, use a “temptation timer.” Allow yourself 15 minutes of dedicated indulgence, then get back to work guilt-free. Knowing a break is scheduled can cut down on impulsive time-wasting distractions.
5. Batching 2.0: a different approach
Traditional batching groups similar tasks. You could take it further with thematic batching. For example, dedicate a half day to “client communication,” another to “deep work,” and another to “admin and learning.” This creates flow and minimises mental gear-shifting between disparate tasks.
6. The “artificial deadline” hack
Parkinson’s Law states that work expands to fill the time allotted. Outsmart it by setting earlier deadlines for yourself. This creates urgency and prevents tasks from dragging on unnecessarily.
7. Productive procrastination
Most of us have experienced this without realising it. Sometimes, switching to a less urgent but still productive task can refresh your mind. Feeling stuck on a complex report? Tackle some inbox organisation or website updates instead. This allows your subconscious to work on the challenging task in the background.
8. The energy audit
Not all hours are created equal. Track your energy levels throughout the day. When are you most focused? Schedule demanding tasks for those peak performance periods. Reserve less demanding tasks for your energy dips.
9. Unschedule to reclaim your time
Instead of solely scheduling work, schedule time for breaks, exercise, hobbies, and loved ones. Treat these “appointments” with the same importance as client meetings. This guarantees you prioritise your well-being and avoid burnout.
By implementing these unique time management strategies, you can transform your freelance life. Boost your productivity, meet deadlines with ease, and reclaim precious hours for the things that truly matter.