I’ve discovered that, what I would call ‘boring tasks’ are a lot better if you’re in a nice spot.
– Alex Freeman on why he prefers to clean out his inbox while sitting in the comfort of his own couch.
Meet Alex Freeman: A Theater Artist Turned Remote Worker
Welcome to the Work From Home Forever podcast! In this episode, Don hosts Alex Freeman, a seasoned remote employee with a passion for theater and voiceover work. Alex shares his journey into the remote work sphere, offering valuable insights and tips for those considering or already immersed in the work-from-home lifestyle.
Alex Freeman, a theater artist with two degrees in theater, found himself drawn to remote work opportunities in 2019. Despite his background in theater, Alex successfully transitioned into remote sales and freelance voiceover work, leveraging his skills to thrive in the digital workspace.
The Joys of Flexibility: Managing Work and Passion Projects
For Alex, the allure of remote work lies in the unparalleled flexibility it offers. Whether he’s directing a show in Dallas or managing his sales position from New York City, Alex appreciates the freedom to work from anywhere. This flexibility not only allows him to pursue his passion for theater but also enables him to seamlessly integrate his W2 job with his freelance endeavors.
Striking a Balance: Prioritizing Tasks and Personal Goals
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for Alex, who emphasizes the importance of effective time management. From tackling to-do lists to prioritizing side projects, Alex navigates his day with purpose, ensuring that both professional responsibilities and personal aspirations receive ample attention.
Navigating Challenges: Overcoming Criticism and Setting Boundaries
Despite the benefits of remote work, Alex acknowledges the challenges it presents, including misconceptions about accessibility and productivity. However, by establishing clear boundaries and honing his calendar management skills, Alex successfully addresses these concerns while maximizing his productivity.
Harnessing Technology: Cultivating Virtual Connections
Technology plays a pivotal role in fostering virtual connections, enabling Alex to maintain meaningful relationships with colleagues, friends, and family members. From hosting virtual trivia nights to engaging in productive work meetings, technology facilitates seamless communication and collaboration in the remote work landscape.
Life Lessons Learned: Discipline and Adaptability
Reflecting on his journey from a paperboy to a seasoned remote worker, Alex underscores the importance of discipline and adaptability. Whether delivering newspapers or directing a show, Alex approaches each endeavor with a steadfast commitment to excellence and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
Embracing the Opportunities of Remote Work
As the remote work landscape continues to evolve, individuals like Alex Freeman exemplify the possibilities and rewards of embracing the work-from-home lifestyle. Through careful planning, effective communication, and a passion for personal growth, remote workers can thrive in a digital world defined by flexibility and innovation.
Connect with Alex Freeman
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Q & A with Alex
Why did you want to Work From Home Forever?
- For me, it is the flexibility. The ability to work in a comfortable space, or the spot where I am the most focused, to handle life things as they come up and not be stuck at an office, and to fill that down time in work with projects that matter to me.
How long have you been Working From Home, Forever?
- I have been fully remote for just over 4 years at this point (November 2019).
What trade offs, if any, did you make in order to Work From Home Forever?
- If I were to take a similar sales or marketing position as my primary day job, I would definitely have a higher base rate by 50% plus, but the tradeoff of going into an office is not worth that to me.
How do you manage work/life balance Working From Home, Forever?
- I firmly believe in one calendar, one life, and so I just always try and keep my calendar in a way that means I know when I’m turning off my work communication devices, but not necessarily my other projects. Also, working from the couch some mornings when slogging through the inbox can be its own form of relaxing!
What’s your best advice to others who want to Work From Home Forever?
- Make sure it is what you actually want. A lot of folks think they want it, but discover that they don’t have something that fills the social void that exists when you work from home and are more isolated from your colleagues. I’ve had a few different friends who have tried it and discovered they were still unhappy because they didn’t have a broader network of social connections.
What are your three must-haves to Work From Home, Forever?
- 1 – Good coffee (made in my French press)
- 2 – Comfortable seating options (both at my desk and in the living room)
- 3 – The ability to toggle what email addresses are on my phone
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