June 27, 2023

Working as a freelancer has its perks. You can be your own boss, work however you like, and often control how much you charge. And yet, there are pitfalls. With so much flexibility in your work hours, it can be hard to manage your time wisely and keep track of your responsibilities. Plus, some freelance jobs like copywriting and graphic design are often remote, which can present unique distractions. While it might take some time to build your routine, having a healthy dose of self-discipline and a reliable device, like a Surface laptop, can help you keep up with your own schedule. Use these freelancing tips to stay productive while managing your workload as a freelancer.

Start your day on the right foot

A good start to your day can make all the difference. Make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep the night before and giving yourself downtime before work begins. Build healthy habits, such as eating a good meal and going for a quick walk, to give yourself the energy to work. If you use a Surface device that has Windows 11, take advantage of built-in features like Snap Assist to organize your most-used apps and widgets, and harness the power of Microsoft Copilot to quickly answer your questions.

Choose and use the most productive time

Since you make your own schedule, you can choose when to work as well. If the traditional nine-to-five doesn’t suit you, try working earlier or later instead. Identifying the times when you are most productive will help you work more efficiently. You can also turn on Focus assist in Windows 11 to manage your notifications and minimize visual distractions on your screen, helping you use your chosen time as well as possible.

Prioritize your tasks

Getting through the day is easier when you have a plan. Create a checklist of the tasks to complete the day before you get started. Use a notebook or a digital planning tool like OneNote to write out your plans and keep track of other important notes. Make sure you’re creating realistic goals to ensure that you can meet your deadlines.

Invest in a good work companion

Whether you’re a freelance copywriter or graphic designer, finding the right computer will help you be most effective. With the latest Surface devices, you can work from anywhere, even without Wi-Fi. Choose a device tailored for creative freelancing jobs, that boast touchscreens capable of displaying over 1 billion colors. Once you've found your freelance work companion use the Surface Slim Pen 2 for an intuitive pen experience. It can mirror the sensation of working on paper or a canvas, enhancing the feel of your freelance projects. The Surface Dock 2 can also support two additional external displays, unlocking even more ways to stay productive with your home setup.

Get rid of all distractions

Do yourself a favor and guard your time and focus by removing distractions. If your phone easily interrupts your flow, turn it off or keep it in a different room. Use Phone Link to sync your mobile and desktop devices, and respond only to urgent things if necessary. Windows 11 comes with productivity features like Focus assist, the ability to limit notifications, and a customizable taskbar, which can make your self-driven freelance life truly work for you.

These are just a few ways to stay productive, cultivate focus, and maximize the benefits of freelance work. Compare Surface devices to find the computer that best supports your work, whatever it may be, suits your freelancing needs.