With the landscape of work having undergone a seismic shift, particularly in the tech industry, and the establishment of remote working, freelancers have found new opportunities, but this has also presented challenges for wellbeing, an essential component of any successful remote first strategy.
Remote Work as an Established ‘Workplace
The pandemic, and related changes in workplace practices drove a generational shift in work practices towards remote work, with a 2021 report from Buffer indicating that 97% of employees surveyed wanted to work remotely at least some of the time for the rest of their careers. This has been balanced over more recent years by an increased return to on site working, but for very many, remote working is now part of their working world. This desire highlights a significant change in the workforce’s mindset, especially among tech freelancers, who often’, but not always, thrive in flexible environments that allow for autonomy and creativity.
However, while remote work offers numerous benefits—such as the obvious tangible ones of reduced commute times and increased flexibility—it also presents unique challenges. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that remote workers reported feeling more isolated, leading to potential mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. For success in work and in life, it is crucial for freelancers for companies to adopt a proactive approach to managing their wellbeing within a remote-first strategy. The EU has identified remote work as being one of its priority areas in its ‘Safe and Healthy Work in the Digital Aged 2023-2025’ initiative, stating; “Clear policies, risk assessment and preventive measures can create a healthy and safe work environment, away from employers’ premises. While remote workers benefit from a more autonomous and flexible working schedule, it can be the source of some challenges. Firstly, psychosocial risks (resulting from social isolation, work intensification, irregular working hours and an imbalance between personal life and work life) can lead to stress and mental illness.”
What is Wellbeing?
According to Psychology Today, wellbeing is; “Well-being is the experience of health, happiness, and prosperity. It includes having good mental health, high life satisfaction, a sense of meaning or purpose, and the ability to manage stress. More generally, well-being is just feeling well.”
Wellbeing encompasses a holistic view of an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. For tech freelancers, who often work in isolation, maintaining a sense of wellbeing is paramount. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 74% of people have felt so stressed at some point over the past year that they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope. This statistic serves as a reminder that the pressures of freelancing can compound feelings of isolation and stress.
Moreover, a report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the UK revealed that 34% of adults experienced anxiety during the pandemic, with freelancers particularly vulnerable due to the unpredictability of work. So, fostering a culture that prioritises wellbeing is not just beneficial; it is also essential for sustained productivity and creativity.
Some strategies for wellbeing include:
Routine
One of the most effective strategies for freelancers to enhance their wellbeing is to establish a structured routine. According to research by the American Psychological Association, having a broadly structured daily routine can significantly reduce stress and improve mood. Freelancers should set specific working hours, incorporate regular breaks, and allocate time for physical activity. This structure helps in creating a clear distinction between work and personal life, essential for mental health.
A Dedicated Workspace
A workspace where a freelancer can focus on work can significantly influence productivity and wellbeing. Research from the University of Exeter found that having a personalised or dedicated workspace can increase productivity by up to 32%. By creating an environment that reflects their personality and promotes comfort, freelancers can enhance their focus and reduce distractions, thereby improving their overall mental health.
Leveraging Technology for Connection
While remote work can lead to feelings of isolation, technology can also provide solutions to combat loneliness. Platforms like Slack, Zoom and Microsoft Teams enable freelancers to maintain connections with peers and clients. A study by the Institute for Employment Studies revealed that effective communication tools could enhance collaboration and increase job satisfaction by 20%. By fostering communication, freelancers can build a supportive network that nurtures their wellbeing.
Benefits of Exercise
Physical health is intrinsically linked to mental wellbeing. World Health Organisation guidelines state that regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Freelancers should integrate exercise into their daily routine, whether through home workouts, yoga, or outdoor activities. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can further enhance physical and mental health.
Mindfulness and Mental Health
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can significantly improve mental wellbeing. Research published in the journal Psychological Science indicates that mindfulness can increase emotional resilience and reduce stress. Freelancers should consider integrating mindfulness practices into their daily lives—perhaps through guided meditation apps or short breaks dedicated to breathing exercises.
A Remote-First Culture
For organisations employing freelancers, adopting a remote-first strategy requires a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive culture. A remote-first approach not only accommodates freelancers’ needs but also enhances overall productivity and satisfaction.
Regular check-ins are vital for maintaining communication and ensuring freelancers feel valued. A Gallup study found that employees who receive regular feedback and recognition are more engaged and productive. For freelancers, this can mean setting up weekly or bi-weekly meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and wellbeing.”
Digital Monitoring
Another source of stress for some can be levels of digital surveillance. According to EU data, 78% of surveyed workers over the past two years have experienced some form of digital management or surveillance in their workplaces, which goes hand in hand with the use of digital technologies to manage workers, including remote workers. These tools enable companies to track worker performance and allocate tasks automatically, with some even capable of monitoring mental states. Digital monitoring and surveillance have grown significantly in recent years as shown by the fact that
and surveillance software went up 83% since the pandemic. While a lot of this qualifies as support rather than surveillance, it could also be a stress contributor if employers deploy extremely intrusive or over inquisitive methodologies.
Resources for Wellbeing
Promoting a healthy work-life balance is crucial in a remote-first environment. Freelancers often struggle to separate work from personal life, leading to burnout. Encouraging flexible working hours and respecting personal space. If at all possible, organisations should also provide resources focused on mental health and wellbeing. This could include access to counselling services, workshops on stress management, or even subscriptions to wellness apps. By investing in freelancers’ wellbeing, organisations can create a more engaged and motivated remote workforce.