Why therapy is magic with mental health advocate Jo Love
Jo Love is the author of ‘Therapy is Magic’ a guide to accessing therapy. Today she talks to Fiona Thomas on the Out of Office podcast. In this episode of the Out of Office podcast we cover Jo’s squiggly career journey from lawyer to business owner to trainee psychotherapist, why self-employment isn’t always the key to a healthy relationship with work, what therapy really is (and isn’t and some things to consider when you think about getting therapy.
How to set your freelance rates
Are you wondering how to set your freelance rates? Struggling to navigate the world of hourly rates, day rates, retainer packages and the rest? I hear ya. Figuring out how much to charge for your services is a complicated topic and everyone has an opinion.
Is it ever OK to work for free?
Half of all freelancers have been asked to work for free. Forty-three percent of all freelancers have completed a job without pay.
Overcoming self-doubt as a writer
Oooof this self-doubt malarkey is a total ratbag, right? I’d bet my last Rolo that you’ve asked yourself at least once “When will I stop doubting myself as a writer?!” It’s something that pops up in conversation with the writers on my course, as well as in the...
How to get started pitching to publications
‘How to pitch to publications’ is a juicy topic. It can also feel overwhelming to even begin typing out the first pitch email to an editor when you’re just starting out. But – great news: you don’t have to have done a degree in journalism or have even gone to university to become a published writer.
5 of the best podcasts for freelancers
There are some cracking podcasts for freelancers available online nowadays, but there are sooooo many! How do you know which ones to listen to first? Some are just sales tools and boring self-promotion for marketers or coaches, and others are genuinely helpful with...
3 ways to build a regular writing habit
Developing a regular writing habit will support you in feeling in control of your writing process. You might know that I have anxiety issues, so having a daily journaling session keeps me grounded while also giving me a sense of accomplishment. Your practice might not be journaling, it might be a little challenge you set yourself (a daily haiku or 5 lines of your book – whatever!) but having a little ritual is so beneficial!
How to live your best freelance life
I started Out of Office with the aim of supporting not just people already on their freelance journeys, but particularly the freelance life contemplators, or the ‘I’m-pretty-sure-freelance-is-a-pipe-dream’ dreamers. I want to demystify the freelance life, offer no-BS advice and share both the highs – and lows – that come with hitting out of office for good, so you’re prepared to make your business a success.
So, in keeping with that purpose, here’s the no-BS advice on how to live your best freelance life.
4 freelance myths debunked
Freelancing myths can put you off making the leap, but I’m here to debunk the ways that people try to put you off self-employment.
Do freelancers need insurance?
Freelance insurance might not be legally required but it can offer some benefits for those who are self-employed. Public Liability Insurance offers protection against injury to other people or their belongings. If you hold a lot of customer data like addresses or bank details then get cyber insurance.
Out of Office shortlisted in the Business Book Awards 2021
Out of Office by Fiona Thomas has been shortlisted in the 2021 Business Book Awards. The event celebrates the industry-leading tomes that inspire the business world each year. Recognising books that have shaped understanding on all aspects of the business world.
Learning to take the path of least resistance
I get so many DMs from people who say they love to write, that they dream of starting a blog or writing a book one day. But when it comes to sitting down to do the writing, their brain tells them they don’t deserve it. That they couldn’t possible indulge in something that feels pleasurable….
So instead they torture themselves by wasting time scrolling on social media (the digital version of an angry fitness instructor screaming in your face, telling you that you’re unworthy) and they never allow themselves to step away and enjoy the thing they love the most; writing.