Working hours refer to the specific times you are engaged in paid or business-related activities. For freelancers, defining and tracking these hours is a fundamental part of running your business.
What is Working hours?
Working hours are the scheduled time you dedicate to your professional tasks. This includes client project work, administrative duties, and business development. Unlike traditional employment, you have full control over when these hours occur.
Why is this important?
Tracking your working hours is crucial for accurate project pricing and invoicing, especially if you charge by the hour. It also helps you measure productivity, manage your capacity, and maintain a healthy separation between work and personal life.
How does it work?
You define your own schedule. Many freelancers use time-tracking tools or simple logs to record hours spent on specific tasks. You then report these hours to clients for billing or use the data to estimate future projects more accurately.
Pros and cons
The main advantages are flexibility and control over your schedule. Key challenges include the risk of overworking, difficulty in separating work from home life, and the need for strong self-discipline to stay productive without external structure.
Conclusion
Effectively managing your working hours is a core skill for freelance success. By intentionally setting and tracking your schedule, you can improve your pricing, productivity, and overall well-being. It turns time into a measurable business asset.
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