5 Tools To Help You Conquer Freelancing

     It can be extremely daunting to become your own boss. Not only does it require a lot of passion, it requires a lot of self-discipline, self-care, and time management as well. Although I have only been a freelance writer for a short amount of time, I know that it is easy to get overwhelmed by everything. This list is a compilation of the items that I use to maximize my ability to create. Be sure to give them a try if you're looking for ways to enhance your freelancing experience or if you're going through a slump and need to incorporate some new things into your routine.

Cold Turkey

Cold Turkey is an application that definitely falls under the self-discipline category. It can be used to block any webpage (or the entire internet) for however long you need it to. I use this app to make sure that I stay productive despite my short attention span. With Cold Turkey, I can't be slowed down by Buzzfeed quizzes and the dark side of  Youtube when I should be focusing on my work! To download this useful  tool visit: https://www.getcoldturkey.com .

Google Keep

Google Keep is like that multipurpose pocket tool that every savvy outdoor enthusiast yearns for. I consider it important for self-care and time management purposes. It's perfect for those who are constantly having a variety of ideas and are in need of a place to store them. Google Keep can be used to create notes, drawings, lists, and reminders. You can also use it to store pictures and URLs for future reference. I love Google Keep because of its versatility. I use it for everything from organizing my grocery lists to setting reminders to review a client's paper. You can color code these items, as well as label them and share them with others. Trust me, once you start using Google Keep, you'll wonder how you survived before you downloaded it. You can find it at: https://www.google.com/keep/.

Calendar(s)

A calendar (or collection of calendars) is a basic necessity for anyone who wants to be on top of their time management skills. I utilize Google Calendar, Facebook Calendar, the calendar on my phone, and a paper calendar in my bedroom to ensure that I not only schedule things accordingly but so I can also recieve as many notices about important events and due dates as possible. I like having my virtual calendars because they are always available  and easy to update. Plus, I love being able to color code my events and set up reminder notifications. I keep a copy of a paper calendar in my home so that I can take a quick glance at what I have to do before I leave the warm cocoon of my bedroom to begin the day. At night, I get to come home and cross another day off the list and if you're like me, crossing anything off gives you an immediate sense of accomplishment. Ahhhhh, good ole accomplishment.

Google Drive

I use Google Drive to convert clients' documents into a format that I'm able to work with (Google Docs--which automatically saves my work and provides some of the same tools as Word without the price tag) and then once I complete the assignment, I convert it back to the original documents' format and send it back in. Not only does Drive help me save time, it also helps me hone my self-discipline skills by allowing me to access a multitude of useful applications and organizational tools to get my life together. I also use Google Drive to create presentations, budget sheets, and as storage for the two books that I will eventually publish. Because Google Drive is cloud storage, you can use it on any of your devices no matter where you are. This is a definite pro for me because I can edit things while on the bus, or if I'm feeling lazy, I can just write a poem from the comfort of my bed while using my tablet. This tool allows users 15GB of free storage and access to a myriad of applications that rival Microsoft Office Suite. Why don't you consider using this free device to enhance your life? Visit http://www.google.com/drive/ to learn more or download it today!

Pinterest

Honestly, I've struggled with the thought of adding this site to my list. While Pinterest does ensure that I have a never-ending list of yummy recipes, natural hair remedies, and motivational quotes, I tend to get a little sidetracked by all of the information and spend a little too much time looking over  everything. To be completely truthful though, I should mention that I am able to use Pinterest for self-care and time management techniques. I'm also able to save all of those techniques in indivudual 'boards' for viewing at a later date. I'm always gonna want to let the world know about a site as fun, easy, and  informative as Pinterest. Go make an account right now? Go to https://www.pinterest.com to get started.

"Now go forth and be (re)productive." - God (?)

-Tierra C. Watkins