What do you do if you're struggling to navigate the obstacles of self-employment?

Self-employment can be rewarding, but also challenging. You have to deal with uncertainty, isolation, stress, and competition. How do you cope with these obstacles and thrive as your own boss? Here are some tips from personal coaching experts to help you navigate the ups and downs of self-employment.

1 Know your value

One of the biggest hurdles of self-employment is setting your rates and negotiating with clients. You may feel insecure, underpaid, or overworked. To overcome this, you need to know your value and communicate it clearly. Research the market, assess your skills and experience, and calculate your expenses and income goals. Then, craft a compelling proposal that showcases your value proposition and benefits for the client. Don't be afraid to ask for what you deserve and walk away from low-ball offers.

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2 Manage your time

Another challenge of self-employment is managing your time effectively. You have to juggle multiple projects, deadlines, and tasks, without losing focus or quality. To do this, you need to create a realistic schedule that prioritizes your most important and urgent work. Use tools like calendars, timers, and apps to track your progress and remind you of your goals. Also, set boundaries with your clients, colleagues, and family, and learn to say no to distractions and requests that don't align with your priorities.

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Tina Chernodub

Project Manager @ CyberFox | Productivity Coach | Certified Notion Consultant
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To manage your time while having multiple projects/responsibilities, I recommend segmenting your time by days / significant time slots. Do not try to mix many projects/responsibilities every day; this will vanish your focus on each.

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3 Build your network

A third obstacle of self-employment is building and maintaining a strong network of contacts, referrals, and support. You may feel lonely, isolated, or disconnected from your industry and peers. To overcome this, you need to network regularly and strategically. Reach out to your existing contacts, ask for referrals and testimonials, and join online and offline communities and events related to your niche. Also, seek out mentors, coaches, and peers who can offer you advice, feedback, and encouragement.

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4 Invest in yourself

A fourth challenge of self-employment is investing in yourself and your professional development. You may feel stuck, stagnant, or outdated in your skills and knowledge. To overcome this, you need to invest in yourself and your growth. Seek out opportunities to learn new skills, update your credentials, and expand your horizons. Read books, blogs, and podcasts, enroll in courses, workshops, and webinars, and attend conferences, seminars, and masterminds. Also, take care of your physical, mental, and emotional health by exercising, meditating, and relaxing.

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5 Adapt to change

A fifth obstacle of self-employment is adapting to change and uncertainty. You may face unexpected challenges, setbacks, or opportunities that require you to adjust your plans, strategies, and mindset. To overcome this, you need to be flexible and resilient. Embrace change as an opportunity to learn, grow, and innovate. Anticipate potential risks and opportunities, and prepare contingency plans. Also, cultivate a positive and optimistic attitude that helps you cope with stress and overcome obstacles.

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6 Celebrate your wins

A sixth challenge of self-employment is celebrating your wins and acknowledging your achievements. You may feel unappreciated, unnoticed, or unsatisfied with your results. To overcome this, you need to celebrate your wins and reward yourself. Track your milestones, measure your impact, and share your success stories. Also, treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a vacation, a gift, or a hobby. Remember, you are doing something amazing and courageous by being your own boss, and you deserve to be proud and happy.

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Helene Kollross 👩🏫

Persönlichkeitsentwicklung, Mitarbeiterförderung, PTBS, Neurodivergenz, Inklusion I Stressbewältigung-App I Burnout Prävention I Resilienz 👩🏫 IHK - Weiterbildung - Seminar
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Das Feiern eigener Erfolge in der Selbstständigkeit ist essenziell für Motivation und Fortschritt. Wie der Anlauf beim Stabhochsprung geben uns erkannte und gefeierte Erfolge den nötigen Schwung für kommende Herausforderungen. Indem wir unsere Fortschritte messen, Erfolge teilen und uns für erreichte Ziele belohnen, stärken wir unser Selbstbewusstsein und unsere Entschlossenheit. Belohnungen können ein Urlaub, ein neues Hobby oder andere persönliche Freuden sein. Sich diese Anerkennung zu gönnen, unterstreicht die Bedeutung unserer Leistungen und fördert ein positives Selbstbild. Jeder Erfolg, groß oder klein, verdient es, gefeiert zu werden.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if you're struggling to navigate the obstacles of self-employment?

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Know your value

2 Manage your time

3 Build your network

4 Invest in yourself

5 Adapt to change

6 Celebrate your wins

7 Here’s what else to consider

Personal Coaching

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What do you do if you're struggling to navigate the obstacles of self-employment?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know your value

2 Manage your time

3 Build your network

4 Invest in yourself

5 Adapt to change

6 Celebrate your wins

7 Here’s what else to consider

Personal Coaching

Rate this article

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