How to Start and Sustain a Freelance Career as a Hermit

If you’re the type who values peace and quiet or wishes to evade the relentless hustle and bustle of the business world, you might find the peaceful calmness of a hermit’s life appealing. Thanks to recent advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of gig work, the prospect of cultivating a strong independent profession from the comfort of your own home is increasingly achievable. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to kickstarting and managing a freelance career, living like a modern-day hermit.

Living a hermit’s lifestyle doesn’t mean you’re disconnected from the world. On the contrary, the digital age offers an unparalleled opportunity to stay linked while also preserving one’s personal space. You can now easily blend the best of both worlds – the serenity of solitude and the dynamism of a connected global marketplace. This allows individuals to shape their careers around their personal preferences, making it the best time to consider such a distinctive path. Continuing on, our guide will delve into the nuances of how to effectively navigate this unique work lifestyle.



Start a freelance career

Embrace Your Personality

It’s an acknowledged fact that not everyone is cut out for incessant social interactions and intricate office politics. There are those among us who are at our best in quiet, solitary environments. If you identify as a hermit, tap into your inner strengths to fashion a work environment that spurs productivity and fosters creativity. You don’t need to modify your inherent nature to fit an archetype that doesn’t resonate with you.

Rather than viewing your propensity for solitude as a disadvantage, consider it an asset. This unique trait allows you to deeply focus, minimizing distractions and enabling you to deliver high-quality work. Embrace the peace and tranquility that comes with working alone to fuel your creativity. Harnessing your innate characteristics to your advantage can lead to unforeseen success, breaking traditional molds and demonstrating that one size does not fit all in the realm of productivity.



Start a freelance career

Create Your Own Workspace

Create a work environment that both inspires and comforts you. If your home is situated away from the city’s hustle and bustle, perhaps even in a remote location, it’s crucial to have dependable internet access and all the required tools for effective work. If the situation allows, think about employing sustainable energy sources like solar panels for your technological needs.

Rather than viewing your propensity for solitude as a disadvantage, consider it an asset. This unique trait allows you to deeply focus, minimizing distractions and enabling you to deliver high-quality work. Embrace the peace and tranquility that comes with working alone to fuel your creativity. Harnessing your innate characteristics to your advantage can lead to unforeseen success, breaking traditional molds and demonstrating that one size does not fit all in the realm of productivity.



Start a freelance career

Building an Online Presence

For those choosing a hermit’s way of life, establishing a strong online presence is vital for succeeding as a freelancer. Create a professional website that showcases your portfolio and offerings, and leverage social media platforms to interact with potential clients and other freelancers. Digital networking can serve as an effective alternative to the face-to-face networking experiences you might not have access to.

Along with establishing your professional brand, maintaining open channels for communication is essential. Make it easy for potential clients to contact you via email or a messaging platform that you frequently use. You should also consider subscribing to newsletters and joining online communities related to your field.

They can keep you up-to-date with industry trends and give you opportunities to connect with others who share your interests or face similar challenges. Just because you’ve chosen a more solitary lifestyle, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on staying connected and informed.



Start a freelance career

Setting Boundaries

Just because your workspace is at home doesn’t mean you’re always on call. Set specific work hours and make sure your clients understand them. It’s important to create these limits to maintain a balanced work-life dynamic, even if your personal and work spaces physically coincide.

Remember also to give yourself time to rest and recharge. Integrate regular breaks into your schedule and dedicate specific hours to hobbies, exercise, and relaxation. Just as a traditional office environment has its own rhythm and schedule, so too should your home office.

Without the regularity of co-workers leaving for lunch or the visual cue of a deserted office in the evening, it’s all too easy to overwork. Mindful self-care routines are key in preventing burnout and maintaining your overall well-being.

Related article: Do Introverts Ever Get Lonely Being Alone?


Start a freelance career

Maintain Your Skills

Staying informed about industry trends is essential in the rapidly changing freelance landscape. Cultivate the practice of enhancing your skills through online education and certifications. Engage in online seminars and digital conferences to stay current and get a competitive edge.

Don’t overlook the power of good old-fashioned books either. Many of the world’s most successful people attribute a portion of their success to their reading habits. Books, whether in physical or digital form, can offer deep insights into your field, provide fresh perspectives, and even help you explore new interests.

They offer a quiet, introspective form of learning that perfectly suits a hermit’s lifestyle. Remember, self-improvement is a continuous journey and learning should never cease, no matter your work style or environment.



Start a freelance career

Mental Health and Self-Care

Extended solitude can have effects on your psychological wellbeing. Regular self-checks are important to make sure you’re managing fine. Adhere to a healthy routine that includes regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and ample rest.

Engaging in pursuits like strolling in nature or meditating can promote mental health. Keep connected with your close ones via video chats or text messages to keep away any sense of isolation or disconnection.

While solitude can be a source of strength and productivity, it’s also important to maintain a balance. It might be beneficial to have some level of human interaction, even if it’s limited.

Volunteering for a local cause, joining a club that aligns with your interests, or even working in a shared workspace occasionally, can serve as a gentle social outlet without overwhelming your preference for solitude. This allows you to experience the best of both worlds and provides a counterbalance to the isolation that can sometimes come with a hermit’s lifestyle.




Start a freelance career

Financial Stability

While freelancing can be financially rewarding, it can also be unpredictable. Establish a separate business account, set aside money for taxes, and create a safety net of savings to get you through tough times. Consider adding variety to your income sources and setting up long-term financial goals.

In addition to these financial practices, you may want to consider working with a financial advisor or utilizing financial planning software to further secure your fiscal future. These tools can help you budget effectively, make wise investment decisions, and plan for retirement.

Remember, financial health is an integral part of your overall well-being, and by ensuring stability in this area, you’re further empowering your freelance journey and adding another layer of reassurance to your hermit lifestyle.



Start a freelance career

The Rewards of Freelancing as a Hermit

A key advantage of a hermit’s lifestyle is the chance to embrace the philosophy of slow living. It enables you to prioritize the quality over the quantity in both your professional and personal life. Savor the peace, let your thoughts wander, and unleash your creativity.

In conclusion, a freelance career as a modern hermit isn’t just a theoretical concept, but a fulfilling journey for those inclined towards solitude. By identifying a suitable field, developing a strong online profile, setting boundaries, staying current, prioritizing mental wellbeing, smart financial management, and adopting the principles of slow living, you can build a thriving freelance career while enjoying the tranquility of a hermit’s life.




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Hana Othman

Hana Othman is the founder of SimpleHermit.com and identifies as an INFJ. Most days you can find her typing away or reading a book. Beyond that, she keeps busy as a dog and cat mom.