Making Time To Get Out of the Office
March 26, 2009 by Shelley DeLuca
Filed under Jobs
It’s just past midweek—how many times have you stepped out of your home office? Have you stayed hunkered down at your desk all week, or have you made time to interact with other professionals?
Many freelancers fall into the trap of working nonstop, just in case the next project isn’t forthcoming. But if you’re practicing due diligence with your marketing and querying efforts, chances are that the next project will come in short order. And if you don’t ditch the rut and come up for air every once in a while, you can experience burnout.
So whether it’s a physical or a virtual social break, remember to take time for it as often as you need to. Otherwise, you can wind up your week feeling like a freelance hermit, which can leave you feeling out of touch and vulnerable when it is time to interact with clients or colleagues.
Here are some ideas for leaving that rut behind every once in a while:
Go to lunch. Make a date to get out for lunch with someone. Whether it’s a friend, current or former colleague, neighbor, or client, the change of scenery will help you hit your work fresh when you get back.
Join a networking group. Professional groups are terrific for making contacts and exchanging ideas. If you don’t have access to one in your own profession, don’t limit yourself–try one in another industry. For example, a freelance writer might benefit from joining a group for graphic designers or photographers. Words people and visual people work hand in hand in so many arenas, and perhaps you’ll discover an opportunity to collaborate on something.
Take social networking sites a step further. LinkedIn now has many networking groups based on profession or alma mater, and these can lead to relationships beyond the computer screen. If you don’t see one that meets your needs, start one up! It could be a great way to meet like minds in your area.
Check out Blellow.com. This niche microblogging site was founded to give freelancers, home-based and small business, and others a place to collaborate, share ideas, and exchange feedback. CEO Mandi Leman has pointed out that it gives folks an opportunity to ask a question of a “coworker,” when you don’t have one down the hall who you can ask. The site is still in Beta testing mode, but its membership is growing and there are plenty of discussion groups to join (or to be formed!).
Volunteer. Charitable organizations need more help than ever these days, so your contribution of time will really be appreciated. And beyond helping a worthy cause, it’s a sensational way to feel productive, meet new people, learn new skills, or find new ways to use the skills you have.
These are just a few ideas, but the important thing to remember is that the more you do to fill time in a productive way, the more productive you will become as a result. And every little bit of networking that you do might lead to a new freelance gig, or even a full-time job if that happens to suit your needs.
What do you do to get out of your home office and still feel productive?
Photo credit: Jose C Silva (Flickr)
