Hello everyone! Happy New Year!!
I don’t know about you, but I feel like every time a new year begins it gives us the opportunity for a fresh start. We can leave the past behind and move forward.
So, as freelance translators, how can we reinvent ourselves every year? It isn’t easy but there are a few things we can do to feel like we clicked the “refresh” button.
Change or improve our working space
This can refer to changing how things are displayed on our desk to actually changing our desk! We need to feel comfortable in our working space if we want to be more productive.
One of my plans for this year is to change my working space. Always at my house, but in a different room with more natural light. It does mean that I have to invest a lot in it because the room needs many improvements before being able to move there.
Get a computer that meets your workflow demands
The computer is a translator’s best friend! That is why investing in a computer that’s faster, easier to set up and use, will translate (yes!) into a faster work pace.
Nowadays it isn’t just about a computer. Do we want a desktop or a laptop? Or both? Do we want a PC or a Mac? Or something completely different? We definitely need to research each option and choose the one or the ones that are the best fit for us.
I have a confession to make… After years of using a PC, I finally changed to Mac! Don’t get me wrong, I used PCs all my life, but lately, I noticed they last less and less, and the Windows updates! They are such a pain! I am excited about my new Mac adventure, and I am keeping my PC as a backup for when the power goes out or any other mishap.
Get ergonomic accessories
From your chair to your mouse, to your wrist rest… Getting accessories to help our back, wrists, hands, etc., to rest and be well-positioned will keep those terrible back pains, eye fatigue, and carpal tunnel syndrome at bay!
Update your personal brand
This can be as easy as changing your profile picture, trying a new grid layout on Instagram, changing your “Link in bio” or “Start Page.” It also involves changing your marketing strategy. How often should you post to social media? How often should you write a blog post?
Don’t forget to update your CV and your email signature as well!
Thank you again to Day Translations for sponsoring this blog post. Check out more about them and their services here: https://daytranslations.com/
Have you planned to make any changes to reinvent yourself both personally and professionally this year? I’d love to read your comments!
Until the next time, take care and stay safe!
XX
Translation Expert 