Time off

This page is the easiest way to check when I'm not working in the current calendar year.

If you're a client, I'll make appropriate arrangements in advance of my weeks offline.

If you're not a client, please don't expect a reply from me during these weeks.

We're in an overwork crisis.

Productivity has become shorthand for our individual worth and purpose. Working hard, being busy, and struggling with stress have become perverse badges of honour.

Despite knowing how harmful overwork is, I've fallen foul of it for many years.

Since going freelance, I've struggled to create a structure that gives me enough time away from work. My default approach has been to say yes to everything and presume a quiet patch will come along and allow me to take some time off.

Turns out, I'm the only one who can allow myself time off.

My goal is for my work to be just a small part of my time and identity. So, as of November 2021, I've committed to planning my time off for the entire year in advance.

Prioritising rest, balance, and idleness gives me the space to be me, rather than 'Joe Clarke: copywriter'.

So, please know that I've not created this structure for me to come back refreshed and raring to deliver the best of myself to my work. I've created this structure so I can exist happily and healthily, with my best going to the things that matter most in my life.

Otherwise, I'll end up overworking.

And that doesn't work for me.

If it doesn't work for you either, give something like this a go. If you need any advice about getting it set up, email me and I'll advise in any way I can.

Done here? Head back to my home page or check out some testimonials from people I've helped in the past.