As a self-employed designer it can be hard to switch off. But this is a fundamental part of the thinking designers process. Having new experiences and taking time out are all a vital part of building and maintaining creativity. So why don't we do it more often?
Just as we were told there would be a paperless office we have been told there is a border free office, separate from the rigid structure of nine to five or indeed location (why aren't we working from that hammock in San Sebastian). But why is it that the self-employed feel like taking time off is a guilty pleasure when we work harder and longer hours?* (*probably).
Well lets say budget doesn't come into it, there is always, for me, the nagging feeling that I will miss out on a great project or let down a client. I have been self-employed for over 5 years now and I have begin to think of holidays and preparing for time away from the studio in a new way. Firstly I tell everyone!! All my clients get a heads up a month of some before I am due to go. That way they are well prepared for any deadlines that need to hurry up. I have found in doing this all are more than understanding of the need for a break. We are all human - but for some reason the self-employed feel the need to be super-human and always available! (agin merely my experience)
While this accommodates the current clients it does not cater for the new projects that I previously mentioned. These are the what ifs, maybes,... but how could you rationally pre-empt the unexpected! What I have found is that would don't miss what you never had!
So self-employed folk, raise a pina colada to yourself. Take that break!! Recharge, revive and enjoy. After all there have to be some perks for working for yourself!