If you're like most of us, you're probably pretty enamored with the idea of setting your own hours. Not being a slave to the nine to five or even worse, that ever-changing piece of paper with your name and different days every week? While it is true that setting your own hours *appears* to offer a certain flexibility in work schedules, the truth is a bit more clouded.
As a freelance writer, you are not bound by regular work schedules. Instead, you are bound by ever-changing deadlines. If you're lucky, you'll land some regular clients that expect a set amount of work at set intervals. I have one such client who requires three articles by the 15th of each month, then another four by the end of the month. It's a sweet gig. But not all gigs are so sweet.
Constantly-changing schedules and continually updated deadlines means that you HAVE to stay on top of scheduling. While you may superficially think you can set your own hours, really all that means is that you set the hours you work. In order to make a living wage, believe me, you will work just as much (probably more) than the average cubicle jockey. You may not work set hours, but you will definitely put in the hours to meet your deadlines.
Staying on top of deadlines is one of the most important things that you as a freelancer must do. If you miss a deadline, you may be forgiven. You make a habit of missing deadlines and your reputation will start to suffer. If your reputation suffers, you will find it increasingly difficult to attract reputable clients. Reputable clients = good work. Without a good reputation to back yourself up, you've got very little to stand on. Now, all of us started with little to nothing. Most clients realize that. Not all of them are willing to take a chance on an unknown. If you lead with your best foot forward and ace deadlines, you'll be in great shape.
If, however, you have trouble managing your time pre-freelancing, you may want to consider taking a time management class. It is all too easy to get distracted by things at home. TV, video games, books; they are all potential distractions that MUST be put aside if you ever wish to get work done on time.
I find it helpful to make a dedicated work area. I have a desk and a computer solely dedicated to work. It is well away from the living room (and the tv, the Xbox, etc.) and away from most distractions. I keep a poster of my favorite movie (which I find inspiring) and a calendar close by. My desk is clean, efficient and organized. Nothing that is not work-related touches this desk. This is what I need to do to keep myself on track. Mind you, this is not absolutely necessary to maintain organization, it's just what I find helpful.
I highly recommend setting aside an area strictly for work. If you find yourself getting distracted by things on your computer, get rid of them. It may take some shuffling to find the right area for you. Keep trying until you get it.
Bottom line: freelancing is a gigantic juggling act with time management being one of the things you must balance. If you can't learn to budget your time and allocate enough time to get things done and get them done well, you probably won't last long. If you can get yourself in order and make a nice little niche for yourself in your place of residence, chances are better that you will be able to work successfully.
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