A fitting topic for ME to be writing about as my Wednesday got swept up into drama after drama yesterday. I never did get this post up, but I did resolve all the drama. Several clients are quite happy now and I got a new blogging client! So yesterday was a good day.
However, it was also a prime example of how moonlighting can get out of control within 24 hours. How to cope?
1. If you have figured out how long things take accurately (see this point from a few weeks ago), add another 20 percent to the total time. This is a safety net and you never know when you’ll need it (read: it may be when you least expect).
2. Remember that work needs to be done one project at a time, so don’t double-book your moonlighting hours. If you’re working on a project for that great client you met last week, don’t cram the last-minute project into that same hour. Time management expert Tim Ferriss talked about multitasking and the time it wastes on his blog often.
3. Give yourself enough time so that you don’t have to rush or work at break-neck speed all the time. Pad the time you need with some kickback time, after you finish taking all the wedding pictures, for instance, or after you finish touching up a batch of 250 photos. You get the drill.
4. Don’t allow distractions into your work time. Ignore the telephone, shut the door, turn off the television, even the music if you have to. These hours are work hours only, so also resist the urge to surf the Internet.
5. Above all, remember that if you’re not having fun with your moonlighting venture, and if it feels too much like work, you’re doing too much or you’re not doing the fun stuff enough. Give yourself time to brainstorm or something that is creative: paint your office, throw out magazines, read blogs related to your pursuit, or attend a conference that will augment your skill set.
Now go to it!
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