Freelancer Life in EdTech: Caffeine, Deadlines, and the Occasional Panic Attack

I absolutely love my life as a freelance contractor! Working with some of the top edtech companies allows me to travel across the country, meet incredibly dedicated educators, and continue contributing to the educational system that has been a significant part of my life.

However, while I thoroughly enjoy my chosen path as a self-employed contractor, it does come with its share of stressors. Each project brings its own set of demands and deadlines. Whether it’s arranging travel for an onsite session in three weeks, completing an expense report from last week’s trip, packing for a journey the day after tomorrow, or finalizing a slide deck for tomorrow morning’s virtual training, there’s always something on my plate. And let’s not forget the emails from clients needing potential training dates! Balancing all these tasks can sometimes push me to the edge of sanity and trigger the occasional panic attack.

Yes, managing multiple freelance opportunities requires juggling a lot, and while caffeine might keep you alert on those long travel days, it won’t prevent those occasional panic attacks (believe me, I’ve had enough Coke Zero to test that theory!).

So, how do I manage this hectic life while doing what I love? Here are a few strategies that help me keep my sanity in check:

1. Prioritize Personal Time: I intentionally set aside time for myself by blocking out time for pickleball games, golf outings, family dinners, and trips with friends. I designate work-free days each week and establish clear work and play hours. To be at my best, I need to make time for myself, my family, and my friends.
2. Make To-Do Lists: I create a to-do list for everything, both professional and personal. If it’s not on the list, it probably won’t get done!
3. Keep a Master Calendar: I rely on both a physical and an online master calendar. I find that writing things down helps me remember them longer. My online calendar integrates all my company calendars, so everything is in one place. I’d be lost without it!
4. Enjoy the Moment: With travel to 15 states this year alone and countless cities and schools visited, I’ve had the chance to see the Golden Gate Bridge, walk along Newport’s coastline, explore charming seaside villages, and visit fascinating parks and historical sites. Meeting amazing people, sharing dinners with new colleagues, and laughing with teachers from diverse backgrounds have all contributed to my love for what I do. These special moments make it all worthwhile!
5. Be Ready to Grow: While I’ve chosen to be a professional development trainer because I love the job, I’ve made mistakes, flubbed presentations, and even bombed a few times. That’s okay. Each experience makes me better at what I do. I learn from other trainers and continuously seek new ways to enhance my skills. Growth means not being stuck in unproductive situations.

Want to learn more about becoming a self-employed contractor or freelance consultant? Check out the courses offered by Teacher Transition! Look for a course on becoming a trainer, which I helped create. I think you’ll find it incredibly valuable!