Tools for Freelancers and Entrepreneurs

Below is a list of tools that I personally use (or have used) for doing freelance work, getting things done, learning new skills, managing finances, and running this blog.


I'll be updating this on an ongoing basis, so I’d recommend bookmarking it!

Freelancing

Upwork is the biggest online freelancing platform today! Although I already have direct clients, I still use it for freelancing.  Upwork has changed my life, so consider me an evangelist!


I'm a huge fan of Google products (who isn't?). I love using Gmail for its ease of use, and particularly like using labels— makes managing my inbox so much easier! Pro tip: Create a first-name-last-name-basis email (e.g., chris.acebu@gmail.com). It's more professional that way.


Google Drive comes with your Gmail account. It's great for accessing files anywhere through secure cloud storage. Drive starts you with 15 GB of FREE Google online storage!


Social Media and Content Marketing

I've tried so many scheduling apps and SocialBee is very easily my most favorite. It helps me to curate content with ease, schedule posts on the go, and even make some evergreen (so I never run out of things to share).


Email Marketing

Made for creators, by creators, ConvertKit tops my list for email marketing because of its ease of use. Connect with your audience and make a living doing work you love!


If you're still starting out with list building, MailerLite is a great first option. Why? Because it's free for your first 1,000 subscribers.

You only start paying when you go beyond 1,000 subscribers or if you need to send more emails per month. Oh, and their pricing is the most budget-friendly out there!


Productivity

Wunderlist is great for, well... lists! I primarily use this app for noting down things to bring during my travels. This app has helped me avoid losing items when I'm out exploring.


Trello is probably my most used app. I use it both for managing small and big projects.


I easily get distracted when I'm working on a project, but Be Focused (an awesome Pomodoro timer) has helped me consistently do more focused work. It also reminds me to take short and long breaks.


We manage what we monitor—that applies not only in business but also in life. If you want to build good habits to help you reach your full potential, I highly recommend using Momentum.


Habitica is a great way of making habit formation (and even completing tasks) fun! It's like a level-up game where you gain gold and experience as you stick to your habits and complete your tasks.


I use Google Calendar for scheduling reminders, events, and calls.


Skills Acquisition

Udemy has a huge library of courses + you have unlimited access to courses you purchase. It's a great place to feed your curiosity, explore new passions, and develop new skills. I've used Udemy to improve my work and productivity... and to better my piano-playing skills.


Like Udemy, Skillshare also has a plethora of courses to choose from. Only difference? You have unlimited access to all courses on a monthly subscription. I've used Skillshare to enhance my skills in digital marketing.


If you love reading books, but sometimes struggle to fit it on your schedule, you should definitely check out Blinkist. This app provides summaries of select books from different genres, so you can get to the important points on the go!


HubSpot Academy has free courses from inbound marketing to inbound sales. I received my inbound certification and email marketing certification from HubSpot Academy and have used these certifications in my Upwork account and professional networks.


Personal Development

One small thing you can do every day to decrease stress and anxiety, and increase focus and productivity is to meditate. Headspace is my go-to app for meditation. It's free for the first 10 sessions—give it a try!


I'm in LOVE with the Nike Training app. You can build your own exercise plans to fit your preferences in terms of the number of sessions per week, the intensity of the workouts, and what aspect of your fitness you want to develop (endurance, strength, or mobility. Best part? It's FREE!


7-Minute Workouts

When I don't feel like doing Nike Training exercises, I use the 7-Minute Workout instead. This workout is also known as the "scientific workout" and is designed to train different muscle groups all in 7 minutes.


Finances

I use Payoneer for receiving payments from clients. I find their conversion rates higher than most online money transfer service.


I primarily use PayPal for making online purchases like buying courses, paying for marketing software, and booking flights and accommodations.


Pocket Expense

If you want to manage your finances, Pocket Expense can help you do that! It's a free app that brings all your financial accounts together, categorizes your transactions, tracks all your bills, lets you set budgets, and helps you achieve your savings goals.

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