Comments on: Why Dry Patches Are A Good Thing

By: Mark

Mark — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 23:59:27 +0000

Great post John.

I find it hard to look at dry patches in a positive way.

I find myself worrying about where the next job is coming from but you’ve definitely got the right idea by using the free time to catch up on personal projects and learn new skills. I always have a backlog of tutorial videos I want to watch.

By: Jacob Haug

Jacob Haug — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:36:09 +0000

Very interesting article John. I must say your blog is GREAT!

I really miss the freelance game, and every post that I read from you makes me want to get back into it! When I had down time, I would work on personal projects (redesigns…etc.), catching up (paper work, cleaning, organizing, backing up files…etc.), and getting new clients.

Jacob

By: Japh

Japh — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 03:06:01 +0000

Financial cushion… yeah, you’re in a lucky spot there! Sounds like next month is going to be awesome! :D

@Derek: you’ve raised another interesting point there… Generalise vs Specialise. Could start a debate on that one.

By: Chris

Chris — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 01:21:07 +0000

I hope my next dry patch is as productive as your has been.

By: Derek Moore

Derek Moore — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 01:13:46 +0000

Good post. I however, am at the other end of the spectrum (not complaining). I’ve been pretty busy throughout March and have other jobs lined up through April.

You hit on a good point that any freelancer should note, the financial cushion. I always put a little back from each project for taxes and savings. You never know when that dry spell will hit.

Dry spells are also a good time to learn new skillsets to bring more value to your business and make yourself more marketable. ;-)