We all understand the importance of keeping a tight budget when starting a new freelance business. However, there are times when we need tools to help us stay organized and jot down ideas on the fly. These tools should come at a minimal cost.
Below, I've compiled a list of six free productivity tools that will assist you in staying on track and being proactive from the get-go.
6 Free Productivity Tools for Freelancers
To ensure we're on the same page, let's first define what productivity means.
In my opinion, productivity is not simply about continuously working or minimizing the time spent on tasks. When we consider ourselves productive, it means we're able to complete a task within a defined timeframe while maintaining a desired level of quality.
In other words, productivity isn't solely about completing tasks quickly; it's about avoiding compromising the quality of the results. Instead, utilize your time effectively to achieve tasks that are executed flawlessly.
For me, being productive is all about striking a balance between time, quality, and quantity. It involves knowing when to consider your results "good enough" to meet the required quantity without wasting excessive time.
To accomplish this, it's crucial to break down your tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. This allows you to keep track of important details while maximizing your focused working time.
Additionally, being productive doesn't mean attempting to multitask and juggle several tasks simultaneously, as this often leads to poor quality outcomes.
So, how do you go about achieving productivity?
I begin my productive system with an activity log. To establish the foundation for my productivity system, I first determine the time required to complete a task. I then proceed with time blocking, prioritizing my important tasks (including ongoing projects), and creating a to-do list for my daily tasks.
However, since these steps can be a bit complex, I rely on several free tools to help me achieve my productivity goals.
1. aTime Logger
I discovered these tools through Darius Foroux, a businessman and productivity enthusiast whom I follow.
aTime Logger is an application used to log the time we spend on various activities each day. This application proves incredibly useful in understanding the duration and nature of our daily activities. It even provides statistical features that reveal how much time is allocated to specific activities within a week.
Although logging your daily activities may seems a dreaded task, it grants you an understanding of how you utilize your time, enabling you to prioritize your activities effectively.
Find more individuals benefiting from time-logging in "Reason Why Freelancers Need to Track Their Time"
2. Focus to-do
You've likely heard of the Pomodoro Technique. It is a technique that was developed by a student who struggled to complete his college assignments. To enhance his focus, he used a timer (an analog one, to be precise) to "force" himself to concentrate on a single task.
I opted to install Focus to-do because, in addition to serving as a timer, this application allows me to set targets for my work.
Unfortunately, the free subscription doesn't offer a working history feature. However, you can purchase a premium plan for just $1.99.
If you prefer a completely free subscription, you can choose Pomodoro instead. However, in my opinion, this tool is not as practical since it doesn't store your task history.
Another alternative is to use the aforementioned aTime Logger app, but it lacks the ability to display activity logs for subtasks. You would need to manually add them in the comment section.
The Pomodoro Technique is ideal for:
- Individuals with extensive daily to-do lists
- Struggle to maintain focus
- Have a tendency to strive for perfection in every task
3. Pocket
This happens to be one of my favorite apps. When browsing on Google for references, I often come across informative and valuable articles that are worth reading or implementing on a daily basis.
However, I don't always have the time to read them immediately.
Instead of bookmarking, which often leads to slow-loading pages and requires an internet connection, I choose to use the Pocket app to save these articles. It's like having your own personalized electronic magazine, offering topics tailored to your preferences.
Being productive also involves capturing important ideas, and having such an app installed can significantly enhance your productivity.
4. Google Keep
Initially, I used this Google product to manage my schedule, store writing references, and jot down random thoughts. It also offers a widget feature that allows me to view my to-do list on my smartphone screen without needing to open the app.
Unfortunately, with the latest update, all of my favorite features have disappeared. Nevertheless, I still use it for brain dumping, taking simple notes, and organizing various references.
Some pros of Google Keep include:
- Tagging feature
- Colorful backgrounds to help group tasks
- Ability to store photos
- Free subscription
- Easy synchronization with other devices as long as you have your Google account
5. Google Calendar
Yes, I'm a big fan of all Google products, and I believe many productivity enthusiasts would recommend Google Calendar to enhance productivity.
I used to adore it even more because it had a habit tracking feature, but sadly, that feature is no longer available.
You can create time blocks using Google Calendar. The latest feature also allows you to arrange your appointments, include event details, and manage your task list.
6. Notebook
They say that sometimes the conventional system is the best system, and I tend to agree. There are moments when rescheduling becomes inconvenient, and you may not always have your smartphone on hand. That's when having a simple notebook in your pocket proves invaluable for taking notes, creating mind maps, and instantly capturing important ideas.
These are six straightforward and memory-saving tools that I often use to boost your productivity as a freelancer.
What about you? Do you have any favorite productivity tools? Share them with me on below comment!
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