A healthy translator in a healthy body

As a freelance translator it can be hard to ensure the right balance between work and play. There will always be peaks and troughs of work, when exercise and healthy eating are shelved due to lack of time. However, a healthy lifestyle will help to keep your body and mind in tip-top condition – with the result that you will be more productive and efficient at work. Follow these hints to ensure that you get the best from yourself at all times. 

Pump those muscles

Part of the joy of being a freelancer is that you set your own schedule. Make time for exercise by putting regular exercise slots in your diary and sticking to them, just as you would with any other task. The benefits to your body and mind will be reflected in your work. 

Eat your way to efficiency

We all snack while we work. Beat the urge to munch on chocolate by keeping a range of healthy snacks in the house. If you have a sweet tooth, go for fruits such as pineapple or strawberries to satisfy your cravings. 

Take a break from the old routine

Many home-based freelance translators struggle with their lack of routine. It’s easy to let the end of the working day blend into the beginning of the evening, so that there is no true cut-off point for work. Stop this now! Make a clear break between work and play – put your laptop in a drawer, lock the office door and only use your smartphone to check email if you absolutely have to.  

Get squatting

If you can’t fit in regular trips to the gym, think up creative exercises that you can do at your desk. Jump up and down ten squats every time you finish a paragraph, or keep a pair of dumbbells beside you for flexing your arm muscles at the end of every page. You’ll soon notice the difference!

Beat your friends

If you need a bit of encouragement, speak to other freelancers you know and make things competitive. Track the number of squats you do each day and see who has the strongest leg muscles after a month. 

What are your top tips for staying healthy while working freelance? Share them with us by using the comment box.