Regularly taking time off and enjoying your breaks away from work – image via Lummi: Steph Meade
Building into your schedule regular time off is key as is really enjoying it (and not thinking about work). But without a solid focus on recharging regularly, you can end up working continuously for weeks on end and put yourself at risk of burnout.
Last year, I took on a staff writer role for a few months and was really big on taking time off and completely forgetting about work. Fast forward to this year and freelancing full-time again and I haven’t quite kept up this excellent and very important habit.
As we start thinking about goals for the year ahead, one of mine has to be to be more diligent with taking time off as it undoubtedly makes me a better focused and switched on writer. I took part in a Freelancer Magazine quarterly business planning session recently (very useful) and when I floated the suggestion that I’d like to get better at taking time off regularly, I received some great advice. Sophie suggested to actually make that a reality, I need to plan time off in advance each quarter to avoid the risk of burnout. Wise words indeed.Another favourite of mine, Freelancing with Tim, spoke with Dr Jenny Taitz recently to get some top tips about the importance of taking work breaks.“Really think about times you’re going to give yourself breaks, and really enjoy your breaks,” she advised FWT readers.Cheers to having a restful festive break and some much-needed time off.Lastly, if I can help with your healthcare content needs in 2025, let’s talk!
Regularly taking time off and enjoying your breaks away from work – image via Lummi: Steph Meade