Overcoming Summer Freelance Writing Hurdles

Reading Sharon Hurley Hall's recent post made me feel a little better about neglecting my blog this summer. Not that that's a good thing, because it certainly isn't; but truth be told I am desperately seeking balance between operating my business and family obligations this summer.

Working on the run

My three older kids are all taking classes to prepare them them for the next grade this year. This involves a whole lot of riding up and down the highway from sun up to sun down. As a freelancer this isn't such a bad thing for business since I can easily work in remote locations (e.g. the doctor's office, the car, the park, the yard, etc.) on my trusty Neo Dana; but since I'm being stretched a little further than usual for the next month and a half, something's got to give and unfortunately it's been this blog.

A freelancer is NOT an employee

I recently found myself explaining to a client who has grown used to seeing me show up as "available" on Skype during his regular office hours that yes, I am still working this summer, but no, I am not always sitting at the computer. He seemed concerned over this, despite the fact that his projects are still being turned in on time and that he can easily reach me by phone or email with no problems.

Without being rude I gently reminded him that I'm not an employee, I'm a freelancer. That means if a client gives me a project, it will most certainly get done whether I work on it from nine to five or stay up all night. Same as always.

Relief is on the way

Thankfully, City of Atlanta schools begin August 10th so my schedule will be "back to normal" before I know it - whatever that means. I'm curious to know how other freelance writing parents maintain their sanity during the summer months. Do you make any special adjustments to your working schedule?

Those Crazy Days of Summer

Aaack! School starts here on Monday (Yipee!!) so I am busy scrambling about trying to get a ridiculous amount of school supplies for three of my kids, making last minute doctors appointments, discussing my kids vegetarian diets with the new school's lunch lady and running my business. What can I say? I thrive on chaos! I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and making this freelance thing happen! See ya next week! ;)