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How Freelancer Writers Can Become More Productive Without Constant Distractions

 

​We’re a particular lot, aren’t we? Writers need time alone to become more productive, and that means no distractions. But life doesn’t always cooperate. (How well I know!)

Some of the suggestions below come from other writers. So, feel free to pick and choose what works for you.

Kind of like a first draft. It might take some time to find your groove, but I promise it’s there.

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Here’s the Unusual System That Successful Freelancers Use

Experienced, successful freelancers consistently say that to become more productive without giving in to the day-to-day distractions are less about discipline and more about systems that don’t require discipline.

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For example:

• Time chunking

• Taking breaks—a must!

• Avoiding multi-tasking

• Avoid digital platforms that aren’t part of your work process

 

Maybe these will work for you; maybe not. Fear not! This guide gives you a plethora of productivity habits and routines that experienced freelancers use to keep them from becoming distracted and focusing on the work that makes them money.

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Minimize Distractions by Establishing Your Workspace

Create a dedicated workspace. Ideally, a separate room that’s secluded. If you don’t have that, just work with what you do have and set strict boundaries around your work time. Some other possibilities for limiting distractions are:

•   Noise-cancelling headphones

•   Silence notifications on your computer, phone, apps, social media, and email notifications

•   Establish a strict routine that works with your personality and lifestyle

•   Utilize time management techniques

•   Use a white noise machine

•   Ambient music or no music at all

•   Earplugs

The point is, experiment and find what works for you.

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Time Management

There are three ways of managing your time.

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• The preferred method by freelance writers is chunking work into time blocks. Most freelancers organize their day around two or three 90-minute focused blocks to dig in and work on the most important work first.

 

• The second way is to use the Pomodoro Technique, working intensely for 25 minutes then taking a 5-minute break.

 

• And lastly, setting a timer for 20 minutes to focus on writing then taking a break.

 

Implementing the method of your choice means during that allotted time nothing else matters.

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Email, Slack, calls, text, and admin work happen around these writing blocks. Keep a notepad handy to write down random thoughts or chores you can take care of later.​ The result is focused writing work that doesn’t require willpower. Instead, it produces results.

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Track Your Time (Even If You Don’t Have To)

Even with fixed fee projects, track your time. Many freelancers find they are spending 30-40% of their work week on unbilled admin, revisions, or that one specific client who eats up everything.

Time tracking helps you to see the bigger picture, re-evaluate and utilize your time more productively.

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Diversify Your Client List

Diversifying your client list solves two problems. First, if one client is 60% of your income, you can’t really say no to them because they are your bread and butter. You can’t set boundaries, and you can’t stop working when you get a text at 9:00 p.m.

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Many veteran freelance copywriters aim for no client to be over 30-40% of their revenue. This isn’t just a productivity tip; it’s also a business tip.

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Price and Scope to Keep from Burning Out

Pricing and scoping your work to keeps you from burning out. If you’re having to work nights and weekends, you’ll quickly become discouraged. No amount of focus tactics will solve that.

Raise your rates regularly and build in a 20-30% buffer into your proposal. If it’s not acceptable to the prospect, decline or refer out. Don’t work below your minimum. You’re worth it!

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Protect Your Energy and Your Focus

Protecting your energy and your focus is absolutely necessary to produce good copy. That means:

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Household Chores

Skip household chores during dedicated work hours.

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Fuel Your Creativity

Take breaks to fuel your creativity. Get up and move! Go for a walk, stretch, go to a yoga class. Just get out of your head.

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Set Work Boundaries

Set work boundaries and stick to them. Communicate your working hours to family or housemates. Tell them when you are in a meeting or in “deep work” mode.

Use a visual cue, a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door to your office to prevent unexpected interruptions. Protecting your energy protects your focus and makes you a better writer.

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Keep a “Done” List

Because freelance writers don’t get the recognition employees do, keep a “Done” list. Check off what you accomplished that day. This will keep you from finishing your day feeling like you’re always behind which is a major burnout driver.

A “Done” list is a way of patting yourself on the back for the good work you completed.

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Take Time Off

Take time off before you need it. Veteran copywriters warn against waiting until you’re exhausted to take a step back. Take at least one day off per week and schedule ahead some time off on your calendar and stick to it.

Rest and rejuvenation are the heart and soul of creativity. Time off is what makes finishing a project possible and making it a good finish!

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Key Takeaways for Keeping Your Sanity While Writing

The best takeaways for keeping your sanity while carving out a place to write are this:

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•  Life throws curve balls. When it does, try your best to go with the flow. Consider making alternate arrangements just for the time being so you can stay on schedule. If not, don’t sweat it. The work will be there tomorrow.

 

•  Take time to find what works for you. Experimenting helps you understand your own unique style and your needs as a writer.

  

• Make time to fuel your creativity, whatever that may be, e.g., gardening, running, going to the movies, etc.

 

Need an accountability buddy? Try networking in communities like Reddit’s Writing Club, NaNoWriMo, or Scribophile.