How to take a vacation when you’re a freelancer

We’ve all seen the Instagram posts of digital nomads who claim to earn a six-figure salary while lounging poolside in some exotic location. Having the freedom to work when and where you like is one of the perks of being a freelance writer, but actually taking a vacation when you’re self-employed can be tough.

I’ve been freelancing since 2004 and have spent many vacations getting up at dawn to put in a solid four hours at the keyboard while everyone else sleeps. And then sneaking off after dinner to put in two or three more.

A few years ago, I'd had enough. Life is too short to be chained to a computer. Today, I clear my work schedule for at least two weeks each summer, and I don’t work weekends.

Guess what? My business hasn’t suffered. In fact, my income has actually grown since I’ve made time to recharge.

With March Break coming up next week, and summer just around the corner, here are my tips for freelancers desperate to unplug.

Commit to your vacation   

As a freelancer, you’re probably familiar with the feast-or-famine cycle. Or, you’re lucky enough to have a roster of clients who provide consistent work with consistent pay. Both scenarios can make you think twice about taking time off.

In reality, nobody expects you to work 24/7/365. Clients who respect your work will also respect your need to recharge - but it’s up to you to set your boundaries. Decide how much vacation time you need, when you want to take it, block off your calendar, and make your plans.

Let people know

If you have regular clients, let them know when you’ll be out of the office. Send them a quick email with the dates of your upcoming vacation. They’ll appreciate the heads-up and the opportunity to wrap up projects before you leave, or to put them on hold until you’re back.

Consider adding an out-of-the-office notice to your website and social media channels. And set up an automated reply to incoming emails if you really don’t want to check in.

Don’t let unexpected work crash your party

Your bags are packed and you’re almost out the door - when someone emails with a great gig. If they really want to work with you, they won’t mind your reply thanking them for their interest and asking if you can connect to discuss as soon as you’re back. You’d be surprised how much wiggle room most people have to work with.

In my experience, clients who insist they need things “yesterday” are usually not worth their trouble. Stand firm, and offer to refer them to a colleague if their project really can’t wait.

Leave your laptop at home

It can be tempting to pack your laptop – just in case. As someone who likes to travel with hand luggage and a backpack, my advice is to leave it behind. You've already told people you are out-of-the-office, so it's ok to literally leave your work behind.

And avoid the temptation of spending your vacation checking your phone for emails. I set aside a few minutes in the evening to clear my inbox. You’ll find that most messages can wait – or be deleted!

Organize your office before you leave

On a typical work day, my desk is hidden under a mess of paper, file folders, pens, and paper clips. So, my final piece of advice to freelance writers heading off on vacation is to make time to clean your office before you leave. That way, when you come home refreshed your work space will be ready to go.

Happy travelling!

 Nicole Laidler is a freelance reporter, copywriter and content creator, serving clients in London, Toronto and throughout Southwestern Ontario. She helps people grow their success, one word at a time.