A hectic week filled with clients, and the following one too calm... This is the fate of freelancers. The results of this instability are stress, anxiety, and that famous question: "Am I going to make it this month?"

The good news is that we can learn to manage this irregularity and take back control! We share some tips to help you achieve this:

1. Accept that irregularity is part of the game.

   Irregular income does not mean you are managing poorly. It is simply the nature of the freelance model. Some periods are strong, others quieter. It says nothing about your value or your potential.

   
   

2. Calculate your real monthly average.

   The best way to stop panicking when comparing a low month to a high month is to calculate your average over at least 6 months.

   For example, if in some months you earn €4000 and in others €1200, your real average is not €4000 or €1200. It is probably around €2500-3000.

   It is this average that should serve as the basis for managing your budget. You can do it each year to match the evolution of your business as best as possible.

   
   

3. Create a buffer account.

   To be truly at ease, as soon as you have a good month, set aside some for the weaker months. Ideally, you should aim for 1 to 3 months of expenses in advance. This will prevent you from stressing whenever a client is late on payment. The buffer account could be nicknamed the anti-panic account!

   
   

4. Pay yourself a fixed salary each month.

   Thanks to the calculation of your real monthly average, you can determine the income you can pay yourself each month. This income will therefore be fixed, regardless of whether it was a "small" month or a "big" month. Any surplus will go into the buffer account. You will review this amount when you assess your real monthly average, preferably annually.

   
   

5. List the expenses.

   The budget of a freelancer is not just their purchases and expenses. There are fixed costs (rent, electricity,...), taxes, social contributions, payroll fees, accounting fees, salaries to pay,...

   The more precisely you list the expenses you are subject to, the clearer you will see your finances. This will allow you to avoid unpleasant surprises and be much more at ease.

Conclusion.

It is possible to stay calm, even with irregular income. The key is to create a system that absorbs the variations. This will allow you to run your business without constant stress, and even with true peace of mind. The freelancers who endure are not necessarily those who earn the most, but also those who manage best.