The quiet power of shared spaces

The beauty of freelancing often lies in the freedom to work when and where you want — at least to a certain degree. That’s why finding the setup that suits you best is so important. Some people may thrive in a busy environment, being around other productive people can fuel motivation. However, to others, this could be distracting and overwhelming, and they might prefer a fixed desk in a smaller office, or an occasional trip to a cafe. 

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, remote and hybrid working have become more common than ever — which is great news for freelancers, as it opens up even more flexible options to choose from.

How coworking spaces can boost productivity

When you’re relying on yourself for motivation, discipline is key. Life can get busy, workloads can become overwhelming, and when you're working alone, it's easy to lose track of time or feel uninspired. Being in a coworking space can help build structure to your day. Commuting to a coworking space, even just once or twice a week, can help create clear boundaries between work and personal life.

Just by being near others who are focused and productive can give you that subtle nudge to stay on task. Productivity is a contagious energy that spreads throughout workplaces. Being on your own at home is great for getting in the mental space for working but being around others can give you that extra boost that pushes you to get your head down. 

Coworking spaces and networking

As a freelancer you will be all too aware of the struggles of networking and connecting with other talent as well as potential clients. Being in a coworking space pushes you closer toward like-minded people in similar positions. 

Having other freelancers near you in coworking spaces can give you a huge advantage when it comes to landing new clients. For example, if you’re a freelance writer and a nearby freelancer is a graphic designer working on a new web page, they may be in a position to recommend you as a copywriter for the same or other project.

Although as the name suggests a freelancer or contractor is someone that typically works alone, having a network of freelancers is invaluable for collaboration, support, and expanding opportunities.

Types of coworking spaces

If you’re a freelancer looking at potential coworking spaces it’s important to remember there are different desk options.

Hot desking

A flexible option that allows you to change your desk depending on availability. This is perfect for meeting new freelancers and getting stuck into work with others nearby. Hot desking is ideal for those with a laptop and a dream. Hot desking is usually the cheaper option,  so it’s a win win. 

Fixed desks

Fixed desks are your designated work space. This the perfect option for those freelancers who require the same equipment such as monitors, keyboards and mice etc. Or those that just prefer the same consistent desk. Although it’s the pricier option, the price difference is fairly nominal. 

The benefits of changing scenery as a freelancer

Working from the same spot every day — especially if that spot is your sofa or kitchen table — can start to feel a bit monotonous. You might start staying in your pajamas all day with the TV on, and while comfort is nice it can be slowing you down.

If you’re not wanting to commit to working from an office, why not try working from a cafe for a couple hours a week. Some other places that you can work from that are not offices are libraries or if it's sunny why not work from a park. Most coffee shops will happily cater for freelancers and offer free WiFi and maybe coffee top ups.

Declining mental health can sneak up on freelancers. Not changing your surroundings can accelerate this decline. Changing your surroundings can break this barrier and give you a new perspective of your mental state.  Keeping your mental health in check will improve productivity but most importantly your happiness and fulfillment. 

Finding a healthy balance 

Ultimately, freelancing offers flexibility which might be what drew you in originally. But it does come with challenges.

It’s important to find what fits best, even if that does mean stepping out of your comfort zone sometimes. When you first started freelancing, you probably took your lunch breaks on time, went for walks, didn’t check your emails and had a hot meal at lunch times. 

Over time freelancers lose perspective of their position and slowly let their work bleed into their personal lives. It starts with shaving 10 minutes off your lunch break to catch up on emails, which eventually leads into eating a sandwich at your desk whilst working through your lunch. As a freelancer you change your hours depending on when you want to work. This starts with committing to 7 hours of working per day but eventually ends with working 9+ hours as you catch up on project commitments. 

Finding the balance is crucial as a freelancer. Try to remember what it was like when you first started freelancing: 

• Set a timer for your lunch breaks and take the whole hour
• Make a rule to not check your emails past 6pm
• Break up your day by going for walks before, during, or after your work hours
• Try to have real meal for your lunch and take a break from your screen whilst eating

Working near others can help you put the above into action. You’ll realise how much people value their free time and eventually start to follow suit. Going for lunch with others is something every freelancer misses about office culture. Working somewhere like a coworking space can help you put these routines in place and create a clear boundary between your work and personal life. 

Freelancing isn’t an easy thing to master. Everyone struggles and it’s important to remember you’re not alone. Being part of a network of freelancers can create a foundation of support that can drastically improve, not only your productivity, but your mental health and overall happiness.