1. Always use a contract

This is one of the most common mistakes that those new to freelancing make. Be sure to use a contract for every client project. However, don’t get caught up searching for the perfect contract. It’s okay, to begin with, a template and improve on it along the way.

Having basic terms in the contract helps to protect you, while also informing the client the way you work.

2. Get a down payment from every client

A big issue heard by freelancers is not getting paid on time or the client stiffing them. To ensure you receive payment, require a down payment upfront of perhaps 50 percent before starting any work. Be sure to make this clear in any preliminary discussions as well as your contract.

It should raise a red flag if a client has an issue with this requirement. While there is a possibility this is the first time, they’ve contracted freelance services, your guard should still be raised. If the potential client refuses again, move on.

3. Do not be scared to say “no”

It can be difficult to say no. This is especially true if you are like some people who are generous and want others you work with to feel happy. You offer to help in any possible way as to not disappoint anyone, but you don’t realize the strenuous load it’ll place on you.

Remember this – you will disappoint someone, no matter what you do.

Whether it be your family because of the long hours you’ve been working, the client as you’re unable to deliver 50 percent through the project, you’re extremely stressed from the extra work you took on.

So, learn to get comfortable with saying “no”.

4. Focus your freelance business

Many freelancers are unable to find enough work and have a difficult time getting their name out there.

Make everything easier on you by focusing on your brand identity and the type of projects you take. From charging higher rates to marketing to actually delivering the work. Choose one or two services only and be sure to only take work that falls in one of the two categories. Everything else, turn down.

After making you’re your decision on what services to specialize in, this needs to translate into your own brand. Everything on your website should be reworded to those phrases and keywords, only display that type of work in your portfolio, and begin producing content around those two services as a testimony to your expertise.

5. Write, Write, Write

This tip is the most important – write. It does not matter if you believe you’re not a good writer; by writing, your name gets out there, and the client finds you.

Good writing comes with practice.

Take a few minutes and watch this video by Sean McCabe to learn why writing is important to your freelancing:

It All Starts with Writing

I’m sure after reading this post and watching the video, you’ll understand why writing is so important to your freelance.

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Not only that, but being a freelancer or business owner means burnouts can happen, and they can happen quickly.

What is burnout?

Burnout is the state of constant stress, where no matter what you do it feels as if you can’t break from the slump. Some signs include emotional and physical fatigue, insomnia, detachment, negative feelings like cynicism or anger, and lack of focus. If you are experiencing burnout, your personality will shift, job performance suffers, and you will be too tired to function.

Here are five ways to stay away from burnout:

1. Sleep

One of the symptoms of burnout is insomnia, and when you are unable to sleep, your brain does not function at its optimal level. There are other serious consequences as well when you do not get enough sleep, including increased risk of traffic accidents, lack of judgment, and increased risk of developing chronic diseases like depression, hypertension, cancer, and diabetes.

Obtaining enough sleep is vital to both your happiness and health. Studies have shown that adults require 7-9 hours of sleep each night to function at their prime.

2. Laugh

Science has proven laughing has many short and long-term effects and relieves stress. In fact, every study conducted on this subject has shown positive results. And let’s face it, it is difficult to be angry and cynical when laughing hard. So, try to interact more with the funny people at work. Hang out with your funniest friend. Seriously, laugh away your stress!

3. Exercise

Exercise is crucial to both your physical and mental health. Participating in regular exercise improves self-confidence, increases productivity, reduces levels of stress, prevents cognitive decline, and improves memory. Knowing you are taking care of yourself as well as gaining improved energy from moving rather than sitting all day, helps to prevent that emotional and physical exhaustion that leads to burnout.

4. Socialize

Everyone needs emotional fulfillment, and spending time with people outside of work can provide you with some. Making work your whole life, and only socializing at work, leaves you burned out emotionally detached from people you would typically hang out with after work. To keep you active and engaged, try to schedule regular social activities. Perhaps a weekly movie night or a Sunday brunch would be an ideal plan.

5. Learn to Say No

Saying yes to everything can be easy, especially with a go-getter mentality. However, saying no to some things in your career is important if you are going to remain engaged, energetic, and excited about your work. Determine what is most important (or necessary) to your work and remain on those projects and events.

Burnout is harmful, stressful, and a hindrance on your personal and work life. However, you do not need to get to that point! Burnout can sneak up on you, so pay attention to where you are at when you get emotional. Every one in a while, check in with yourself to be sure you are treating yourself well, not overworking or extending your stress levels.

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