In the spirit of highlighting work that falls outside of the scope of traditional employment, I would like to share a bit about what I’m working on outside of my “main” job as a freelance writer. We do a lot of work that lands outside of the scope of whatever job(s) we do to earn a living. Let’s talk about it!
A note: These categories are not mutually exclusive, and many tasks can fall into more than one bucket. Taking care of my new puppy, for example, could be considered a type of care work, but it’s also part of life maintenance and stewardship/care for the natural world. I’m just sort of picking something relevant to highlight in each category — it’s not an exact science.
Life Maintenance: The work of sustaining daily life
How it’s going: My life maintenance routines have changed dramatically since welcoming a new baby puppy into my home two weeks ago. I’m like a new mother, trying to fit things in during naps because the puppy demands so much focus when he’s awake. I’ve realized it’s unwise to dawdle or procrastinate on chores because I never know when the next interruption is coming.
Where I’m headed: Although I sometimes miss my old routines, I’m excited to build new ones. As I mentioned recently, I tend to be a bit sedentary and set in my ways. It’s good to shake things up, even if it means more laundry in the meantime — potty accidents and muddy paws galore!
Inner Work and Self-Care: The work of sustaining yourself
How it’s going: Inner work and self-care also looks different. First of all, I’m currently averaging 5-6 hours of sleep per night instead of my usual 7-8. I start each day bleary-eyed, with a puppy potty break and walk instead of my usual long, leisurely morning routine of waking up with no alarm, lying in bed, drinking tea, and doing a crossword puzzle.
Where I’m headed: Most importantly, Sammy will become a more reliable sleeper (please, God). I’m excited to have a buddy who will help me stay active, stay present, and enjoy lots of time playing outside.
Relational and Care Work: The work of sustaining others and maintaining relationships
How it’s going: I love my life in Saskatchewan, but it’s hard to live a thousand miles from my family and friends in Iowa. Nurturing those relationships from afar is tough, and I always feel I could do more. It helps that my husband’s family is nearby, and I have some nice connections in the community.
Where I’m headed: I would love to spend more time with my family, whether that means more frequent trips to Iowa or some longer stays there. Since I’m self-employed and my husband is a farmer, we do have a little bit of flexibility with travel, depending on the season.
Employment: The work of economic exchange and paid labor
How it’s going: I currently have one main client who pays me a monthly rate to write a number of blogs each month. I definitely have room in my schedule for more work, but I’m sort of rolling with the slower, more relaxed pace right now. Sometimes I work less and earn less, and sometimes I prioritize free time over income.
Where I’m headed: I would like another freelance client or one-off project sometime soon. I’m also thinking about how to monetize Wishful Working because I spend so much time on it each week and I want it to grow and flourish. I’m noodling on the idea of sponsorships and/or physical products/swag/merch. My big goal is to someday be a full-time artist and author, so that’s where I’m ultimately headed.
Creative Work: The work of meaning-making and self-expression
How it’s going: I’m still spending more time thinking about my creative practice than actually creating things. My craft supplies are disorganized, and I’m suffering from some decision paralysis.
Where I’m headed: Some spring cleaning is in order, I think — physically and mentally. I need to take inventory of my creative gear, organize my desk a bit, and then just pick something to work on. I’m also desperate to read through The Artist’s Way.
Stewardship: The work of sustaining the natural, social, and built world
How it’s going: It’s officially spring! My frosty feelings toward the natural world are melting along with the snow drifts in the backyard, and I’m starting some gardening and landscaping plans. Also, I’m working on my application for Canadian citizenship!
Where I’m headed: I’ve been here more than four years, but I still have a lot to learn about Canada. The citizenship process includes a short history and culture test, but I want to be an overachiever and really dig into some books and other resources.
I would love to hear how work is going for you — any type of work.
See you next week,
Kara
Kara Detwiller is a writer and creative based in small-town Saskatchewan. She specializes in long-form content writing for enterprise SaaS, cybersecurity, and manufacturing clients. She is also working on her first novel, among other creative pursuits. To connect, reply to this email or find Kara on LinkedIn.
Why Wishful Working? I want to help people thrive in a world obsessed with work and productivity. Together, we’re expanding the definition of productivity, rediscovering life balance, and exploring the many kinds of work that make life possible.
