Wellbeing is a term we often hear, yet its meaning can feel elusive. The Oxford English Dictionary defines wellbeing (the noun) as “the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.”
Wellbeing is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it is profoundly personal and shaped by each individual’s unique goals, ambitions, and personality.
The True Meaning of Wellbeing
At its core, wellbeing is multidimensional—encompassing physical, emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual, and financial elements. Achieving balance across these dimensions is key to living a fulfilled life. Each component is vital, from maintaining a healthy mind and body to finding a sense of purpose in life.
In today’s world, wellbeing is more than an individual pursuit. It is a collective priority, gaining attention from prominent figures such as Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, who advocates for workplace environments that promote emotional and social health. Developing a culture of wellbeing can help individuals and communities to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
The Importance of Wellbeing in the Life of a Freelancer
Balancing work and personal life can be an uphill battle for many freelancers. While freelancing offers the freedom to set your own schedule and pursue projects you are passionate about, it also comes with unique challenges—including managing irregular income, juggling multiple roles, and handling the pressures of working alone. In this context, wellbeing is more than just a trendy buzzword; it is a lifeline that supports long-term success and happiness.
Coworking centers have emerged as a game-changer for freelancers seeking to prioritise their wellbeing. Unlike traditional home offices, these spaces are designed to promote a sense of community, boost productivity, and address the unique wellness needs of freelance or remote workers. Many coworking hubs incorporate wellness programs such as yoga classes, fitness sessions, and quiet zones for meditation. These amenities help coworking members manage stress, prevent burnout, and maintain their physical health—making coworking spaces an ideal solution for the wellbeing-conscious freelancer.
Mental health is an essential component of wellbeing. Coworking environments provide more than just a desk—they offer connection. Isolation, a common issue among those working solo, can lead to anxiety and depression (as discussed in our article on beating the January blues). Shared workspaces encourage collaboration and provide a social network of like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging can significantly improve emotional wellbeing, which, in turn, boosts creativity and work performance.
Physical health is another cornerstone of wellbeing for freelancers. Sitting for long hours at a home desk can lead to physical strain, while coworking centers often promote movement with ergonomic furniture, standing desks, and on-site fitness facilities. By incorporating these elements, coworking spaces enable freelancers to maintain an active lifestyle while focusing on their work.
Ultimately, coworking spaces exemplify the balance freelancers need to thrive. They encourage a work-life integration that supports overall wellbeing, making them an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the freelance life. Whether through wellness programs, social connections, or simply offering a dedicated space to work, coworking centers can significantly enhance how freelancers approach wellbeing.
Insights into Wellbeing for the Self-Employed
Maintaining your health is vital when you are self-employed, yet it is often one of the first things to fall by the wayside. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 roles, where boundaries between work and personal life are more defined, self-employment demands managing everything—from finding clients and promoting your services to navigating taxes and meeting deadlines. With so much on your plate, prioritising your wellbeing can feel like an afterthought.
Your mental and physical health can directly impact the success of your business. When you are not at your best, it becomes harder to market yourself, engage with clients, and deliver high-quality work. The reality of self-employment, where income often depends on results rather than hours worked, adds another layer of pressure. For many, taking time off can feel impossible, especially when deadlines loom. Research by IPSE (The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed) highlights this challenge: nearly 10% of freelancers did not take a single day off in the past year, and 14% took fewer than five days.
For those in creative fields, the stakes are even higher. Your health fuels your innovation, inspiration, and productivity. Taking care of yourself is vital, yet the temptation to push through stress, illness, or fatigue often leads to overworking—a dangerous habit given the irregular income and lack of structured support that self-employment brings.
How Creative Works is Enhancing Wellbeing for Its Members
At Creative Works, we believe that wellbeing is essential for unlocking creativity. This is why we continuously evolve our offerings to support the physical and mental health of our coworking members.
We offer a variety of wellbeing-focused activities that make connecting with others and boosting your energy both fun and rewarding. These sessions include:
- Pilates Sessions: For physical health and relaxation
- Sound Healing Talks: Learn how sound frequencies can balance mind and body
- Art Therapy: A creative outlet for stress relief and expression
Recently, we kicked off Pilates sessions with Meghan, offering an opportunity to stretch, strengthen, and recharge. But that is not all! On January 30th, we will host a transformative Sound Healing CW Talk with Eleonora from Re-Set-Pause. This session will explore how sound frequencies can reduce stress, boost energy, and restore balance. It is the perfect way to harmonise relaxation, wellness, and a more productive work environment. You can read more about Eleonora and her work here.
But that is not all! Our recent art therapy session during the Art Trail was a massive hit, and we are excited to announce we might add more of these events in the future. It was a popular initiative, with many members enjoying the chance to express themselves creatively and unwind. Check out the highlights on our Instagram.
With exciting activities like these, Creative Works is more than just a space to work—it is a community that nurtures wellbeing, encourages meaningful connection, and helps you to thrive. What is not to love about that?
