- I haven’t got enough work.
- I’ve got too much work – how will I get it all done?
- Will my payment arrive on time?
- Will I upset the commissioning editor if I chase a payment?
- Does the silence after I’ve sent my copy in mean they haven’t received it?
- Does the silence after I’ve sent my copy in mean it’s so bad they don’t know what to say to me?
- Did I somehow miss the reply?
- If I chase up the pitch today, will I look too pushy?
- If I chase up the pitch next week, will it be too late to pitch it somewhere else?
- What if the commissioning editor leaves?
- What if the magazine closes?
- Can I find a case study for this feature?
- Will the case study agree to speak to me?
- I’ve made so many calls – what if I end up with too many case studies?
- Can I find an expert for this feature?
- Will the expert agree to speak to me?
- Will they think my questions are stupid?
- What if I don’t understand what they are saying?
- If I go on holiday, will I miss out on some work?
- Will I ever work again?
And that’s just the first 20 – there are so many more!
If you have worried about any of these, don’t worry (ha!) – you’re entirely normal. Journalism – in fact, any form of freelancing – can be stressful. We suggest finding some journalism “buddies” either online or in “real life”. Realising everyone worries about the same things can be really reassuring.
Beyond sharing your fears with journalism buddies or even other friends and family, other ways to help manage your worry can include:
- Mindfulness, meditation and deep breathing
- Deep breathing
- Practice self-compassion
- Keep an emotions journal
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Focus on what you can control
- Exercise more often
- Take positive action
