#5: 5 Unexpected Truths From My Year of Freelancing
from fear to freedom
Welcome to Homebody Stories! A newsletter offering reflections from an ex-productivity enthucutlet trying to live a more meaningful life, one step at a time.
Hope is an incredibly beautiful thing.
And the 2024 Indian Election made us feel the beauty of it, truly.
With over 600 million voters, this has been a historic election. It's not just a number. It's the largest collective expression of free will in human history. And what's the message? A resounding call for change.
I'd lying if I said I wasn't emotional when the results were announced.
Over a call with a friend, both of us couldn't stop talking about the election highlights. We were just so happy, filled with such immense HOPE.
We, the people of India, have demonstrated our commitment to protecting our democracy. Our unity lies in our diversity. And this coalition government is our second chance.
On that note, let's dive into this week's newsletter. ♡
So, I leaped into the world of full-time freelancing over a year ago. To be precise, it's been about 15 months. And I can't help but think about how nervous I was initially when I took this decision. It felt like jumping off a cliff without a parachute - a plunge into the unknown. For all the invaluable lessons I've learned and for all the wonderful people who have been a part of this journey, I'm deeply grateful.
1. Have you heard of the German term 'Eigenzeit'? Meaning: let things take the time they need. Whether it's running a marathon, building a reputation, finishing a book, cooking a biryani, or any other endeavour, every thing takes it own sweet time to bloom. Instead of chasing quick results, focus on the process and let things unfold in their own rhythm. I'll be honest: I still find it extremely hard to avoid the trap of constant comparison. I’m still learning.
2. As clichéd as it may sound but your work will ultimately speak for itself. I'm here for the craft. And I'm here to give it my all. In one of the recent podcast episodes of The BarberShop with Shantanu, Kapil Chopra articulated it beautifully:
"Let the work be your win. Don't do it because you want validation. Don't do it to be cool. Don't do it because entrepreneurship is such a sexy thing to do. Do it because you love coming to your work every day. And that is your win."
3. I've consciously shifted my perspective, perceiving clients as long-term partners rather than 'just a project.' The client-centric mindset cultivates a culture of ongoing trust, support and shared achievements.
4. You’ve likely heard Annie Dillard’s quote: "How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives." The shift from a full-time job to freelancing opened up my days in the most beautiful, liberating ways imaginable. No more commutes. No more meetings about meetings. This newfound control over my time feels extremely precious (something I'll never take for granted). Goodbye, artificial busyness! But, at the same time it made me realise the importance of having a structure. A structure that allows me to thoughtfully design my days and work on multiple projects in the most efficient way possible, while safeguarding against burnout.
5. On the topic of burnout, I knew if I wanted my freelancing to be a sustainable affair, I can no longer neglect my health. Working out every day and going for walks are non-negotiable. And this attitude shift has been a game-changer. What's also been immensely helpful is taking out time for hobbies and creative pursuits. ‘Otium’, a concept from ancient Rome, refers to prolonged leisure time devoted to self-realisation activities. Not to mention, the cognitive reset and fresh perspectives that indulging in hobbies can provide.
Here’s to embracing change and to a better tomorrow!
😍👏👏👏👏👌👍😘