Why do some freelancers feel depleted and discouraged at the end of their workdays while others feel happy and hopeful? Having a successful career in the gig economy, no matter your profession, requires a certain set of psychological and social skills.

Two researchers break down six common existential and interpersonal challenges that freelancers confront in their day-to-day work lives. They share routines and practices that help independent workers keep themselves motivated, productive, and developing professionally.

Guest experts:

Brianna Caza is a management professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. 

Erin Reid is a management professor at McMaster University.

Resources:

• “Are You Ready to Go Freelance?” by Brianna Barker Caza et al.
• “What Successful Freelancers Do Differently,” by Ben Laker et al.
• “Freelancing, Self-Employment, and Mental Health” by The Anxious Achiever
• “Thriving in the Gig Economy,” by Gianpiero Petriglieri et al.
• The Gig Work Life

Participate in Erin and Brianna’s research study.

Sign up to get the Women at Work monthly newsletter.

Email us: womenatwork@hbr.org