Freelancer: How to Prepare for the Holidays
<p><em>Summer is just around the corner. For many, it means it is soon time to go on holiday and take a well-deserved break. Whether you decide to stay close or live an adventure in another country, what can you do to prepare yourself effectively for the holidays if you are a freelancer? </em></p>
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<h3>Reminder: the importance of taking some time off </h3>
<p>Before we start, let us take a moment to remind you of the importance of taking some time off and holidays from time to time, especially when we are freelancers or entrepreneurs. It is true that when we own a business, we are the heart of it. If we do not work, you will not get any money; however, your mental health requires pauses. Besides allowing you to rest, it helps increase productivity and creativity. It should not be neglected.</p>
<p>Moreover, you likely wanted to become a freelancer for a better quality of life. Remember that entrepreneurs are not immune from burnout.</p>
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<h3>How to prepare effectively for holidays when you are a freelancer</h3>
<p>Whether it is a travel abroad or a few days at home, what can you do to prepare yourself for holidays if you are a freelancer? Here are some tips to take into consideration to help you with this.</p>
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<p><strong>Find the perfect time to take your vacation</strong></p>
<p>Here is the first thing you should check: when is the best time to take a few weeks of vacation? You may have a different workload throughout the year. For example, summer is quieter for some, while for others, it is winter. Consequently, taking some time off during your off-peak season could be relevant. This way, you will be rested when it is time to start new projects.</p>
<p>Are you in a situation where you do not have any off-peak season or do not know when there will be less work to do? Do not forget that you should also take some time off to recover and rest.</p>
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<p><strong>Think about your budget</strong></p>
<p>Another way to prepare yourself for holidays is to plan your budget. Once more, the freelancer or entrepreneur is responsible for saving money for their vacations and days off. Start by asking yourself what type of holidays you want and then hold a small amount of money each time you receive a payment. You can also consider including this fee when you define your rates.</p>
<p>Do not hesitate to meet an accountant if you need help or have questions. They can help you think about all the fees a freelancer or entrepreneur must include, like taxes and retirement money.</p>
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<p><strong>Tell your clients</strong></p>
<p>If you are out of town for a few days, telling your clients that you will not be available during this period could be crucial. If possible, do it a few weeks before. There are many ways to tell them: you can send an email, write it in your email signature, or directly on your invoices. Setting an automatic reply if they communicate with you could also be relevant.</p>
<p>And what should you do if an emergency occurs during your holidays? Like a situation you cannot ignore? There is the possibility of having a special rate for this type of event or counting on another professional to support you if needed.</p>
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<p><strong>Delegate some tasks</strong></p>
<p>Similarly, delegating tasks to other professionals could be another way to prepare yourself for your holidays. Whether it is someone in the same field or a <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/interview-with-a-virtual-assistant" target="_blank">virtual assistant</a>, you might be more peaceful if you know someone is looking after your business while you are unavailable. For example, this person could continue your projects or answer your emails.</p>
<p>Of course, this professional must be trustworthy and qualified. You probably want to return from your holidays without dealing with several issues.</p>
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<p><strong>Plan a soft return</strong></p>
<p>How often did we hear someone say they need an additional week to rest from their holidays? To come back in shape and ensure keeping your energy level for an extended period, why not plan a soft return? Here are a few tips to do it.</p>
<p>Before you leave, think about putting all your files in order and let yourself some notes for your return to avoid losing time understanding what is left to do. Then, why not start a few days before your official date of return, only a few hours? It will allow you to have the time to read all your emails and prepare your tasks without being disturbed by your clients’ requests.</p>
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<p><strong>Extend your holidays by becoming a digital nomad</strong></p>
<p>Would you like to travel the world while having the opportunity to continue to work? More and more freelancers decide to become <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/interview-with-two-digital-nomads" target="_blank">digital nomads</a>. To sum it up, it is people who choose to work while traveling in another country. For example, some like to live in tropical countries during wintertime. Since more and more work can be done remotely, it is something to consider if you want to extend your holidays.</p>
<p>Caution: since this is the case with preparing for your holidays, there are a few steps to follow before traveling abroad for a few weeks or months. Where are you going to live? Do you need a visa? Will you have access to a good wifi? What about the jetlag?</p>
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<p>In conclusion, preparing yourself for the holidays is not very complicated when you are a freelancer. Start by finding the perfect moment and consider establishing a budget accordingly. Then, tell your clients and find a resource person if you cannot put your projects on hold. If you need help balancing your personal and professional life better, find some tips on <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-to-manage-your-work-week-more-efficiently" target="_blank">managing your work week more effectively.</a> We wish you good luck, but mostly some great holidays! </p>