November 1, 2024

If you’re a freelancer lacking a community, then a coworking space could be the perfect option for you. While you may be able to enjoy more flexibility and freedom than in a traditional office job, being a freelancer can be quite solitary. Many people work in isolation and manage the business themselves, along with trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. If this feels like you, have you considered coworking?

 

Alleviating Loneliness

One of the biggest challenges of being a freelancer is the sense of loneliness. A coworking space can provide a remedy to this. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people and combat any feelings of solitude. Small breaks throughout the day to enjoy a coffee and have a chat with others can actually help your productivity, not hinder it.

 

Fostering Community

Coworking spaces can also help you to foster a sense of community. While everyone there may be working on separate projects, you’ll get to meet a dynamic network of professionals from diverse backgrounds, each with a unique insight and something to give. Sharing opinions or even collaborating on projects can foster friendship and community. It also gives you people to share your wins with! Being surrounded by people who are committed to their work can also inspire and motivate you to reach your own goals.

 

Gaining Structure

Having a more structured ‘work-like’ environment that you can go to can help you establish clear boundaries between your work life and personal life. This separation can greatly improve your mental health. It reduces the risk of working all hours at home and becoming anxious and burnt out. Mental health is a critical aspect to consider when deciding if going freelance is the right decision for you.

 

Access to Resources

Coworking Shoreditch spaces provide access to resources and amenities, which gives you fewer things to worry about. High-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, meeting rooms, and well-equipped kitchens are available, which means that you don’t need to worry about extra bills or finding quiet coffee shops to meet your clients. It’ll boost your feelings of overall well-being as you can focus on the things that matter, making your workdays more productive and, ultimately, more enjoyable. An added bonus to a coworking space is that it can help you to look more professional, too.

 

A Supportive Ecosystem

Hopefully, a coworking space can even function as a supportive ecosystem that extends beyond a place to simply get work done. You may find connections with mentors, advisors, and potential collaborators. This support network can be invaluable as you move forward with your career. Knowing you have access to support and help when you need it, as well as advice, can alleviate stress and thus improve your well-being.

 

To further look after your mental health as a freelancer, here are some alternative things to try:

  • Practice mindfulness
  • Set clear boundaries
  • Eat well and move your body.
  • Stay social
  • Take regular breaks (and don’t be afraid to take a holiday)
  • Practice gratitude
  • Do things you enjoy (outside work)

 

Plus, if you feel it’s necessary, speak to a mental health professional about the best ways to go forward and look after yourself!