8 Books to Read Before Going Full-Time Freelance

1. Meal prep. First and foremost, meal prepping makes eating healthy throughout the week significantly easier. This is especially true if you work full time. Meal prepping doesn’t have to be a multi-hour, day-long process either. Here are a few of our favorite tips and tricks for keeping it quick:

• Meal-prep your breakfasts by creating ready-to-go smoothies. Slice up whatever fruit and veggies you like to use and place them, along with any other mix-ins, into a ziplock bag. Store in the freezer. Each morning, all you need to do is add the contents of the bag along with water or milk to your blender and hit go.
• Batch-cook your proteins for the week by laying 5-6 servings of meat on a baking sheet. Cook in the oven and store in the fridge, and then reheat throughout the week.
• Cook a huge batch of rice or quinoa as a base for convenient, ready-to-go healthy sides.
• Pre-slice any veggies you use tend to use often so you don't have to slice them up as you cook throughout the week. Common combos include mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery), sofrito (onion, garlic, tomato, bell pepper), and the Cajun “holy trinity" (onion, bell pepper, celery).

2. Organize your planner. Whether you use a day planner or a bullet journal, take 30 minutes or so to get everything organized for the week. Write in any appointments, plans, or projects you have on the horizon, and section off as much time as you'll need to get everything done. You can also use your planner to make grocery lists, track habits you want to accomplish each day, and schedule relaxation time.

3. Set goals. While you're working in your planner, set some goals for the week. Make sure they are timely things you can actually accomplish before the following Sunday: When you set unattainable goals, you only stress yourself out. In your planner, break down concrete steps and actions to take to ensure you achieve those weekly goals.

4. Clean out your bag. Too many of us start the week with last weekend's receipts, wrappers, scraps, movie tickets, and god-knows-what-else in our bags. Give yourself an organized start to the week and stay ahead of the mess by cleaning out your purse.

5. Pick out your outfits. Take a glance at the weather forecast, and use it to inform what outfits you want to wear on each day of the week. Even if you're WFH these days, having outfits all picked out will keep you feeling both comfy and ready to crush the day each day. You can either fold each outfit and arrange them side by side, our plan the outfits in an app like Stylebook.

6. Call an accountability partner. Pick a person — be it your mom, your best friend, or your SO — who will be an uplifting force in your life and help you stay focused as the week goes on. Agree to check in on each other mid-week to see how each other is doing and help gently remind each other of the goals you both want to accomplish. This should be a person who can also lend a friendly ear if you need to vent about your passion project, your coworker, or your creative blocks.

15-year-old Ginny moves to New England with her mom Georgia and her brother Austin after the death of her stepfather. The fact that she often feels like the most mature person in her family frustrates her, but as Ginny navigates love, friendship, and life as a teenager, she realizes there might be more to her mother, and her stepfather's death, then meets the eye. The strong mother-daughter bond in this show will appeal to ISTJs' loyalty and dedication to family.

As Beth falls in love with playing chess, she also develops an addiction to the daily tranquilizer pills given out by her orphanage. Her success in the game and her addiction intertwine as she becomes one of the most famous players in the world. Independent ISTPs will love Beth's hands-on nature and her ferocity.

Maddie, Helen, and Dana Sue have been friends since high school, and when they decide to open a spa in their town of Serenity, South Carolina, both their personal and love lives get very complicated. ISFJs, and their kind, responsible natures will fall in love with this warm-hearted Netflix series.

Mel moves to Virgin River after she sees an ad looking for a midwife nurse practitioner. She thinks it will be the perfect fresh start until she realizes that living in a small town is not as drama-free as she hoped. Because ISFPs can be easy-going and sensitive, they'll resonate with the journey Mel goes on to find healing and make a home in Virgin River.

Siblings Mathew and Marilla think they've adopted a boy until they discover red-haired Anne instead. With a temper that matches her hair, Anne always seems to be getting into trouble, but her kindness, imagination, and loyalty quickly win the town over. INFJs will relate to Anne's complexity, creativity, and her love for all things beautiful.

In a story that's a little bit Jane Austen, a little bit Gossip Girl, Daphne has one thing on her mind during her debut season: a suitor. When Daphne and the Duke fake a courtship to make her look desirable and him unavailable, they begin to develop real feelings. The idealistic and creative nature of INFPs will love this drama's colorful details and high stakes.

After dealing with her father's passing and being in a wheelchair for three months, Devi decides to change her social status. However her grief, Indian identity, and complicated relationships make it more difficult than she anticipated. INTJs are analytical, logical, and creative, which is why they'll relate to Devi's drive and passion.

When Alina saves her friend Mal while inside the Fold (a physical darkness splitting her country in two), she accidentally releases a power she didn't know she possessed. Everyone quickly realizes she's the Sun Summoner they've been waiting for and Alina gets swept into a world of power, intrigue, and magic that will certainly appeal to INTPs.

Sophia begins to flip clothing online after discovering a passion for fashion. When her business plans snag, she decides to start her own company, but realizes that being her own boss is harder than she thought. Sophia's outgoing nature and attention to detail will appeal to ESTPs who value the same things.

Pembroke University appoints Ji-Yoon as the chair of the English department. As the first woman and woman of color in the position, she navigates love and parenting, while also realizing that the issues in the department run much deeper than she realized. ESTJs can be logical and assertive, and will relate to Ji-Yoon's take-charge nature.

The McKellans decide to move to Georgia from Seattle after attending their family reunion. While they expect life in a small town to be simpler, it leaves them feeling out of place instead. Spontaneous, outgoing ESFPs will love this heartfelt family sitcom.

Vibrant Emily becomes the American representative at a Parisian marketing firm in this fun, flirty show that can definitely be described as brain candy. Both Emily and ESFJs are outgoing and encourage others to be their best selves, making them the perfect match.

Julie hasn't played the piano since her mom's death, but with the help of a boy band that's been dead for 25 years (yes, you read that right), she rediscovers her passion for music. This Netflix series is so fun, creative, and oh-so heartfelt that ENFPs of all ages will love it. Plus it's got a great soundtrack.

Five best friends start a babysitting business in their Connecticut small town, and must deal with bullies, school, and crushes. Don't be fooled by the the fact that this show is about middle schoolers: The issues they face definitely speak to ones faced by people of all ages today and the girls are confident, social, and able to pick up on the needs of the people around them, just like ENFJs.

When Cassie, the star dancer at a Chicago ballet school, is attacked, Neveah must take her place, but is unprepared for the cutthroat competition that awaits her there. The characters' focus on success is perfect for ENTJs and their no-nonsense, hardworking nature.

When Will goes missing from his Indiana small town, the search to find him uncovers a mysterious girl and a string of government experiments. The more Will's friends and family discover, the more they wonder why the authorities are so interested in his disappearance. ENTPs' innovation and idea-oriented nature will love this unique, creative Netflix series.

Christmas Appetizer Ideas

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese

While cradling a cocktail in one hand, an easy-to-grab appetizer is essential. These flaky, cheesy bacon twists are both easy and delicious to dunk in a three-cheese beer dip. (via Brit + Co)

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Bites

A red and green holiday treat without sugary sprinkles? Count us in. These phyllo shells are filled with whipped pesto cream cheese and topped with basil and sun-dried tomatoes for some yummy Christmas food. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

These cranberry goat cheese balls are the perfect balance of salty and sweet — a definite crowd-pleaser for any Christmas dinner! (via Chef Genevieve)

Holiday Crostini Trio

Spread avocado, mascarpone, and provolone onto toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer, and top away for three versatile holiday food ideas that will please any palate at your holiday party. (via The Baking Fairy)

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Add this this gooey, sweet, and salty baked brie to your Christmas dinner menu and guests will gather around it like it's a fireplace on a cold day. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Christmas Food Ideas For Side Dishes

Sesame Shrimp Pastry Puffs

The seafood lover in your home will be elated to munch on these sweet and umami-rich (thanks to the oyster sauce) sesame shrimps blanketed in buttery puff pastry. You'll definitely want to add this dish to your best Christmas recipes list! (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Sweet Potato Gratin

This savory combination of sage, gruyère cheese, and heavy cream is here to make sweet potato casserole even more indulgent. This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas. (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Butternut Squash Salad

Fill your guests' bellies with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, apple cider, and pecans. The bacon is just the icing on the cake, so to speak. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Romanesco Christmas Trees with Parmesan "Snow"

Turn Romanesco broccolis into snow-capped trees with just six ingredients in this healthy yet cheesy dish for your next party. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Nothing will warm you to your toes quite like a good soup, and whipping one up in the slow cooker can save you time, mess, and energy. This French onion creation is a perennial favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Waffle Iron Latkes

These latkes make the perfect addition to any celebration, and the best part is how easy they are! From an apple butter topping to pomegranate and Greek yogurt, there's something for everyone. (via Brit + Co)

Cornmeal Biscuits with Cheddar, Chives, and Jalapeños

These slightly spicy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that gravy goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Taco Salad

Okay, you might be thinking, "why in the world would someone serve taco salad at Christmas?" But hear us out – this recipe is full of delicious veggies, and it's just brimming with color. Keep things red and green to stay festive, or go all-out with every color of the rainbow. (via The Girl on Bloor for Brit + Co)

Crispy Leaf Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

If ever there were a bulletproof case for buying a mandoline, it's these potatoes, which are sliced chip-thin, layered upright in a baking dish, and gloriously bathed in salty rosemary butter. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Cozy Pumpkin Curry

If you're looking for vegan Christmas recipes, look no further than this warming, insanely delicious, and seasonal pumpkin curry. Just leave out the fish sauce to make it fully plant-based! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

5-Ingredient Christmas Salad

A complicated salad is the last thing you need to worry about when picking out Christmas dinner recipes. This palate-cleansing dish is simply butter lettuce, pomegranate seeds, and a white wine vinaigrette. (via My Kitchen Love)

Main Dish Ideas For A Christmas Feast

If you're tasked with cooking the bird this holiday season, look no further than this foolproof roast turkey recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Beef Short Ribs with Vegetables

Make a statement with a delicious short rib recipe that's cozy, filling, and features an unbelievable wine sauce. Everyone will be talking about it until next Christmas. (via Baldacci Family Vineyards for Brit + Co)

Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Make your turkey extra-special with a delicious cranberry-pomegranate glaze everyone is sure to adore. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Roasted Chicken with Carrots

For a Christmas dinner or otherwise, every home cook needs a roast chicken recipe in their back pocket. Start with this step-by-step recipe, which shows you how to stuff, truss, roast, and baste the bird until juicy and golden brown. (via Simply Recipes)

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Loin with Apple and Rice Stuffing

This dish combines a classic holiday side with a crowd-pleasing main, and it's wrapped in prosciutto for a show-stopping finish. (via Host The Toast)

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Pasta doesn't get enough credit when it comes to holiday recipes, but nothing's cozier than a delicious bowl of warm tortellini. Except tortellini soup, that is! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Roast Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and White Wine Cream Sauce

This melt-in-your-mouth holiday meal is cooked in one pan in under an hour. Sauté mushrooms in an oven-safe skillet, put the beef on top, roast, rest, and make a cheesy, herby cream sauce with the pan drippings. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Turkey Roulade with Apple Cranberry Stuffing

This dish is all about texture, from the crispy bacon coat to the tender turkey in the middle and soft stuffing interior. This is one Christmas dinner recipe you won't want to miss out on. (via Boulder Locavore)

Delicious Christmas Dessert Ideas

Keto Eggnog

Got guests who are committed to the low-carb lifestyle? This keto eggnog is the perfect dessert to serve the carb-conscious. (via Annelies Zijderveld for Brit + Co)

Peppermint Bark

This easy peppermint bark recipe is so simple to make, you'll have plenty of time on your hands for more ambitious endeavors — like cooking the turkey. (via Jessica Smith Wall for Brit + Co)

Holiday Puppy Chow

Your go-to sweet treat gets a festive upgrade when you add in red and green candy! Bonus points if you have a red or green bowl to put it in. (via Brit + Co)

Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies

No surprise here: the secret to Torres' high-quality chocolate chip cookies is high quality ingredients, like butter, flour, and chocolate. Letting the dough age for 24 hours and sprinkling it with sea salt at the end doesn't hurt, either. (via Jacques Torres for Brit + Co)

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

When it's your first year hostessing, the simpler you can keep your Christmas dinner recipes, the better. That's why we're huge fans of these 3-ingredient vegan Christmas cookies. (via From Eat Your Feelings by Lindsey Smith for Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Donuts

Donuts are an all-purpose treat that can serve as Christmas breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This baked hot chocolate-inspired version doesn't require any special tools to make and is uber delicious. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Dulce de Leche Cream-Filled Churro Donuts

These six-ingredient donuts, made with biscuit dough, have a cinnamon-y exterior and a rich dulce de leche filling that pairs wonderfully with Mexican hot chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Eggnog French Toast

Another recipe you can serve as a Christmas dinner or brunch is this sweet French toast. The secret to nailing that 'nog flavor is the nutmeg and vanilla combo. Yum. (via St Pierre Bakery for Brit + Co)

Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Give your oven and your plates a break and add this dairy-free hot chocolate to your easy Christmas dinner menu, or enjoy with Christmas waffles! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the gadget do the rest for you. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Champagne Ice Cream

This egg-free, celebration-worthy holiday dinner idea gets its creaminess from cream cheese and, better yet, its booziness from sparkling wine. (via Brit + Co)

Cinnamon Roll Pecan Pie

We call this pie holiday crack for a reason (or two): the pie crust is made of mini cinnamon rolls and the pecan filling is buttery on the verge of illegal, which definitely makes it one of our favorite holiday dishes. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake

Hear that? That's a scoop of ice cream begging to top this sweet tray of apple, pear, cranberry, pineapple, and gluten-free dessert. (via Cotter Crunch)