Wednesdays with Steve
When I began to “explore my options” (read: got laid off) last spring, freelancing seemed the easiest option to a challenging — if sporadic — income. Long, uninterrupted work sessions at home where I could be fully focused on my projects would be book ended by thoughtful, relaxed brainstorming sessions at coffee shops.
I liked giving up the dress code, the phone answering, and the office politics. Little did I know I would miss coworkers?
Oh, I knew I would miss the individual people I had worked with for years, but I never imagined how much I would miss sharing my workspace with them — with anyone. I missed people wandering into my work space at random times. I missed overhearing their conversations, bouncing off ideas to them, blowing off steam with them.
Enter Twin Cities CoWorking.
For a couple months now, I have been joining the crew that gathers around the giant dining room table at Steve Filing’s condo every Wednesday afternoon. Some weeks, I have a project of my own I need to work on. Some weeks, I join in their conversation, planning the future of Twin Cities CoWorking. Most weeks, it’s a combination of both.
Because let’s be honest, we all thrive on human interaction. Even introverted writer types. When someone across the table from you has a great idea, it sparks something. The air in the room changes, you get excited. Your own inspiration is not far behind.
To paraphrase Margaret Mead, one of the oldest freelancer needs is having someone to wonder why you were late to work. My Wednesday afternoon coworkers greet me when I walk through the door, laugh at my jokes, politely acknowledge my off topic comments, and tolerate my mostly quiet presence. Just like my old coworkers.
~Beth
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