Waiting for your next gig? Read this.

Freelancing comes with freedom but also uncertainty. One month, you’re flooded with projects and late-night deadlines. Next, it’s crickets. No new clients, no invoices, no money coming in.

If you’ve ever stared at your empty inbox wondering where your next gig will come from, you’re not alone. Every freelancer experiences downtimes at some point in their journey. Downtimes can be hard and the key to surviving them is learning how to manage them without going broke or burning out.

Here are a few tips to prepare for or manage your slow work era:

1 — Build and use an emergency fund 💰

Think of your emergency fund as your personal safety net. When gigs slow down, this is what keeps you afloat and helps you cover essential bills like rent, food, data, and healthcare.

Ideally, try to save enough to cover at least three months of basic expenses when work is steady. Keep it in a separate account or digital savings app so you’re not tempted to touch it.

If you already have one, don’t feel guilty dipping into it. The purpose of an emergency fund is to help you survive.

2 — Cut unnecessary expenses early ✂️

When income slows, most people wait too long before adjusting their lifestyle. Don’t make that mistake.

Look through your monthly spending and trim anything that isn’t essential, like unused subscriptions, impulse buys, or takeout meals that add up fast. During downtimes, every naira or dollar you save extends your runway.

It’s not about deprivation; it’s about control.

3 — Keep your portfolio and skills sharp 👨🏽‍💻

Downtime can be frustrating, but it’s also the best time to level up. Now that you’re not working as often as usual, it may be the perfect time to start sharpening your skills. Use your free hours to:

• Update your portfolio with past work or testimonials

• Learn a new skill that complements what you already do

• Create your own sample projects if you lack recent work

These small actions can make you more marketable when things pick up again — and help you attract better-paying clients.

4 — Reconnect and market yourself 💬

Sometimes, work dries up not because you’re bad, but because people forget you exist. Reach out to past clients with a friendly check-in. Something as simple as:

“Hey, I just wanted to see how things are going with your project. If you need help with anything new, I’d love to assist.”

Also, post your work and thoughts regularly on social media or portfolio sites. Staying visible keeps you top of mind when opportunities arise.

5 — Explore new income streams 💸

Having multiple income streams can be very helpful for you as a freelancer. Due to the nature of freelance work being inconsistent, it is important to consider alternative sources of income. You could:

• Create digital products (templates, guides, or courses)

• Offer coaching or consultation based on your expertise

• Join smaller freelancing platforms or local marketplaces

• Partner with other freelancers to take on bigger projects

Even small side earnings can help stabilize your income during dry spells.

6 — Protect your health and mindset 🧠

Financial stress can be draining, but remember: your well-being is also an asset. Use downtime to rest, reflect, and recharge. Get enough sleep, eat properly, and try to step away from your screen.

When the next wave of work hits, you’ll be ready, refreshed, and focused. 

Final Thoughts 🤔

Downtimes are part of the freelance cycle. Instead of panicking, plan for them. Save regularly, manage your expenses, stay visible, and keep learning.

When gigs slow down, your preparation is what determines whether you survive or struggle. And if you’re in that season right now, breathe, it’s temporary. Use the time wisely, and your next opportunity might be closer than you think.

Freelancers, how do you manage slow seasons? Do you save ahead, learn new skills, or diversify your income? Share your strategies in the comments.