How to Stay Efficient When You’re Your Own Boss

It’s the question that freelancers tell us they get asked all the time: how do you stay efficient whilst being your own boss? True, it takes a bit of getting used to, but if you follow our simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and productive career.

Remove distractions

If you’re working from home, you’ll need to take steps to ensure that you stay focused on the work at hand. This could involve installing a social media blocker, or setting up a dedicated workspace. If you still find that there are too many distractions, consider moving to a hot desk or co-working space where you can be totally focused on the tasks at hand.

Set times for specific tasks

When you’re working for yourself, it can be overwhelming to keep track of spreadsheets, projects, business calls and more – so don’t try doing it all at once. Instead, make sure you allocate slots of time for completing each job, and try not to stray too far from your schedule.

Take time out for email

Although it’s tempting to check your emails every time a new notification pops up, this isn’t a very efficient way to work. With something like email constantly interrupting your focus or train of thought, you’ll end up taking more time to finish the task you set out to do. Instead, it’s better to plan and schedule times to check your email, perhaps every hour or so (and some even advocate just once or twice a day). If something more urgent might arrive, ask your clients to mark their correspondence appropriately.

Don’t forget to relax

Now that you’re your own boss, it can be difficult to let things go. You may find yourself working (or thinking about work) all hours of the day and night. It’s important to try your best to stick to working hours – and that means no checking emails when you’re meant to be off work. Also, make sure you plan holidays and breaks just like everyone else – it will help you stay focused and efficient when you’re on the clock.

Get on top of your finances

An efficient freelancer is one who doesn’t find themselves buried in receipts come the end of the tax year. But keeping track of expenses and receipts can be difficult. Why not stay ahead of the game by using an app like Expend?

Our Expend integrated app and payment card allows you to keep track of your spending and expense transactions in real time, whilst at the same time removing the need to hold on to countless receipts. It seems simple, but this will free you up to dedicate more of your focus and hours to your business and doing the work that really matters.