Freelancer Leave Demystified: Building PTO into Your Business Model

[kevin1]

Taking time off as a freelancer is notoriously difficult, yet essential for long-term sustainability. Key strategies for advanced freelancers include:

Pricing for PTO: Factor paid leave into every project or retainer, not just billable hours.

Financial resilience: Maintain 3–6 months of personal and business reserves.

Systems-led business design: Automate processes, delegate tasks, and establish subcontracting options before you need them.

Insurance and self-insurance: Consider long-term disability coverage or personal funds to protect income during unforeseen leave.

Mindset shift: moving from being indispensable to creating a sustainable, autonomous business ensures that leave—planned or unexpected—doesn’t derail your career trajectory.