Navigating Time Off
In the two plus years that I've been an independent marketing consultant, I have been blessed to have interesting, engaging work with people and companies that I truly enjoy. A freelancer's dream. I just finished up a six month fractional position where I learned a completely new skill set. However, due to some timing issues, I have found myself between jobs, with nearly eight weeks until my next fractional contract.
This should be a cause for celebration. A summer off! Head to the beach. Learn how to play pickelball. Enjoy quality time with my family. Get some house projects done. There is very little downside. Right?
Yes and no. Intellectually, I know that this time is part of being a consultant. Work is feast and famine and sometimes you're on the bench. But, because I'm someone who derives value out of being both busy and successful, downtime is pretty stressful. To combat my uneasiness, I did some research on how other people navigate work breaks and put together a plan. I hope this guideline can help others feel secure as it's helped me refocus my thoughts on what the next eight weeks can bring.
My plan has three parts:
Organizational improvement
Business development
Personal development
Organizational Improvement
When you're working, some of the nuts and bolts fall off the truck but the truck keeps rolling. Now that I have the time, I can take a look at the little things that will make me more effective. IT is the biggest headache as an independent consultant. You can't just call Bob from Tech Support and have him diagnose the glitches on your business computer. During this time, I am going to get some IT advisement, make some tweaks to my website (2RyeConsulting.com) and update my LinkedIn profile. This stuff isn't sexy or fun but way better to handle now than when I'm back on someone's payroll.
Business Development
Because freelancing can be a lot of solo time, it's important to be proactive about networking, both to secure new jobs and to remain current in the industry. This is a time for coffees and lunches with friends, former co-workers and interesting contacts. It's also a time to build my skills. I've already taken two courses on AI for Marketing and I'm looking for the best new certifications I can pursue without breaking the bank. It's hard to network and learn when you're billing hours but when you're off, there's no excuse.
Personal Development
I'm a big believer in giving back and I will use this time to volunteer as much as I can at Lifeline Animal Project. The shelter pups always need a walk. I'm also planning on dusting off my Spanish with some online chat groups so I can keep up with my daughter who is a Spanish minor. Working moms are notoriously selfless. Work breaks are a great time to invest inwardly.
On top of all of this, I'm going to try my best to breathe. Watch movies without a laptop in front of me. Walk the dogs and go to the gym in the same day. Watch my daughter's softball tournaments without checking email. This break is a gift and I need to use it.
Although, I'd still be open to a short term gig if anyone has a need…