These can frustrate freelance journalists and affect the quality of their work. Fortunately, however, there are ways to mitigate them.
Here are six tips for freelance journalists to manage anxiety and achieve the work-life balance they desire.
Illustration: Unsplash
Face your fears
Freelancing can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. A contract with a media company might end, or an article might get rejected. You might worry about whether future articles will be accepted. When you’re feeling particularly discouraged, you might wonder if freelance journalism is the right path for you.
Facing these fears head on is the first important step to overcoming the difficulties of freelance journalism.
“The more we avoid [the fear], the more we believe, ‘I can’t do that,’” says Dr. Mitchell Schare, a clinical psychology professor at Hofstra University. “Keep submitting, and if it doesn’t work, try submitting somewhere else.”
“Look at rejection as a source of growth, not failure,” Schare continues. “Ask for feedback on your work so you can revise it before sending it elsewhere.”
Set strategic financial goals
The financial pressures of freelancing can be overwhelming. While you may love your work, earning a steady income that covers your living expenses can be a challenge. The way to manage this is to set specific, realistic financial goals.
Consider taking on a side job outside of journalism or journalism-related work, such as social media manager and administrative assistant, to supplement your income. This can give you time to establish yourself in the market and negotiate a better salary.
Just write
There are times when you just can't get yourself to write. For example, when you can't write something creative, you can feel extremely stressed, especially if the deadline is looming.
As your deadline approaches, Schare recommends writing down just a few words, then gradually adding more. This helps your brain generate ideas for your writing.
Journaling is also beneficial because it helps process thoughts and emotions while stimulating creativity.
Rereading past work can also help spark creativity. "Whenever you're stuck, think about your successes and occasionally go back and read something you've written," says Schare.
Join the support group
Freelancing can be lonely. It can be hard to get recognition for your work from friends and family. Plus, you may doubt yourself as you watch others advance in their careers. Without a manager or colleagues to guide and advise you, you may feel demotivated.
In these situations, it is important to have a group of friends you can turn to. For example, the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) organizes events and programs to support freelance journalists.
“When you’re stuck in writer’s block, when you’re feeling discouraged by rejection, or when you’re stressed about finances, it’s helpful to have companions you can talk to because they get it,” says Schare.
Make a habit
Having a routine, even if it's just a simple one, can help you manage stress.
“Make time for regular self-care, maintain healthy sleep habits, monitor your nutrition and hydration, and engage in regular physical activity and exercise,” says Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo, a UK-based consultant psychologist. “Create good boundaries between work and home life.”
Take a break
In the busy world of journalism, there is always pressure to work more than you should. But it's important to take breaks too.
“When you work hard on something, you need to put it aside for at least a day. Step away from it, let it sit there, and turn your attention to something else; do something fun. Then, calmly read your writing,” Schare advises.
“Completing multiple tasks at once is never helpful and can lead to burnout,” notes Quinn-Cirillo.
It's normal to feel anxious, but if you feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor or mental health professional to address your concerns, get helpful advice, and discuss treatment options if needed.
With the right strategy, you can grow your career as a freelance journalist.
Ngoc Anh (according to IJNet)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nhung-cach-giam-ap-luc-hieu-qua-cho-cac-nha-bao-tu-do-post312191.html
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