Being a freelancer means I can be flexible when I work. I can write about topics that truly connect with me. And I can work with clients all over the globe.
I love it, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.
But it’s not without its challenges.
In the beginning, I worked exclusively from home. Over time, I noticed my motivation starting to dip. The flexibility was still great, but the isolation? Not so much.
So, I decided to switch things up. I started changing my work environment from time to time. Since then, I’ve discovered some unexpected (and very welcome) benefits.
1. It Increases Your Productivity
Humans are social creatures — we subconsciously match the pace of people around us. In a room where laptops are clicking and deadlines are looming, your own focus sharpens.
Seeing others arrive, break for lunch, then wrap up encourages healthier work rhythms. Personally, I find this gives me healthier start and stop cues for my routine.
To achieve this, I make a point of booking a coworking space at least twice a month. In these shared office spaces, small companies and fellow freelancers occupy the same space but carry on with their own projects independently. I found it to work really well for my own productivity — but they typically require a monthly investment.
If you prefer a more inexpensive way to work around people, a lot of freelancers opt to work somewhere like a library. This is a good option if you focus best in near-silence.
I work full-time in a coffee shop and often return after a shift with my laptop to write with a coffee. I love the relaxed setting, but it definitely isn’t completely silent.
Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference on what helps your productivity.
2. You Feel Less Lonely
Research from Leapers shows that over 70% of those who freelance have felt lonely or isolated while they’ve been self-employed.
A lot of people become freelancers because it lets them enjoy a solo environment. But even the most introverted people can feel lonely if they go a long time without talking to others or being in social settings.
By making the jump to work around others, freelancers can enjoy social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation. In fact, I actually met one of my closest friends in a coworking space.
Remember: It doesn’t have to be every day. Even just one or two days a month can help prevent the loneliness that is so common among freelancers.
3. It Reduces Your Stress levels
If you work on your own in a personal bubble, it’s easy for your stress levels to rise.
If you have people around you, it can help you feel less isolated for one thing. But you may even be able to ask someone for help with your work if they understand it.
I was shocked when I met a journalist in a café who knew lots about the topic I was writing about. They gave me some incredible points to use in my draft.
Another major point of tension for freelancers? Struggling to separate work from personal life.
When your office and living space are one and the same, it’s easy for boundaries to blur. By going out to work and being around others, you give yourself the opportunity to draw a clear line between the two. This way, when you return home, it actually feels like time to relax.
4. It’s a Great Opportunity to Network
If you’re freelancing, you’ll know all too well the pressure of building up a solid client base. That’s why being surrounded by other like-minded individuals is a great opportunity to network.
Networking can foster new opportunities for work. But it can also equip you with useful advice and information. You’d be surprised at just how much many people are willing to share about what they do.
Some coworking facilities hold networking events and workshops where you can mingle and gain industry knowledge. These events might just also be the perfect chance to cross paths with your next client.
5. You Can Collaborate with Others
Working with others lets you combine your knowledge and skills. Sure, you can collaborate online. But in-person communication often feels more natural. Personally, I find working face-to-face much easier.
You’re also less likely to miss the little cues you’d normally catch in real life: body language, tone, that sort of thing.
A lot of coworking spaces and libraries come with handy extras like breakout areas, meeting rooms, ultra-fast Wi-Fi, and whiteboards. All very handy for teaming up on a project.
It Pays to Work Around Others From Time to Time
As someone who leans a bit more introverted, I’ve always enjoyed working solo.
But I’ve come to realize that being around others, even just occasionally, has a massive effect on my productivity. It’s helped boost my motivation, introduced me to amazing people, and opened doors to opportunities I never expected.
If you’re a freelancer, I definitely recommend giving it a go. To find a coworking space near you, just run a Google search for “coworking space [your city]”. Or use a dedicated platform like Coworker or Regus.
Holly Dodd is a freelance writer with a passion for books, storytelling, and using her work to raise awareness. She’s dedicated to creating content that informs and makes a meaningful impact. You can reach her at holly.dodd@thewritersdiary.co.uk.
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