FFN #71: You Are Not Your Job

👩🏼‍🔬 The Science-y Bit

Workaholism—whether it’s others pushing us to overachieve or us doing it to ourselves by valuing only our output—can have some seriously damaging effects. When you become a workaholic, you start seeing yourself as nothing more than your productivity, relentlessly pushing to be “better,” “more accomplished,” or just “good enough.” Fun, creativity, and rest get sidelined in the constant race to achieve more. It’s like trying to catch the never-ending question, “Am I working hard enough yet?”

💭 Our Two Cents

I get it. I admire hustle culture as much as anyone—I mean, freelancing thrives on it, right? We work hard because it feels good to produce something meaningful and strive for growth. But here’s the thing: defining yourself solely by your work can strip the joy right out of your business. Being a freelancer is about freedom, but when workaholism sneaks in, you end up trapped by impossible standards and joyless milestones.

What’s the point of building a fulfilling freelance business if you’re sacrificing fun, relationships, and self-care along the way? Your work is important, but it’s not all of you.

💁🏼‍♀️ What Can You Do?

Create Space from Work: Take real breaks. Yes, I’m talking about actual downtime—whether it’s taking a proper holiday where you don’t sneak a peek at emails or setting boundaries on work hours each day. And if you want to get really serious, try a “detox” every day or week. This can mean anything from logging off completely after 6 PM to dedicating one weekend day entirely to rest and fun.

The idea isn’t just to stop working—it’s to fill that time with things (and people) that remind you you’re more than your work. Freelancing may be your calling, but so is being a whole person.

Build Relationships Outside of Work: Find friends who care about more than your latest client or project. These friendships help you build a life beyond freelancing—one that’s rich with hobbies, laughter, and maybe even spontaneous weekend adventures. The more you engage with non-work aspects of your life, the easier it becomes to see that you’re more than a walking invoice machine.

Remember FF’s, building a freelance business is incredible—but don’t lose sight of yourself in the process. Your work is just one part of the vibrant, multifaceted person you are. Keep hustling, but don’t forget to rest, play, and just be.

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