Oh Laptop, How I Love Thee!
It’s a rare freelancer who doesn’t get work done through a computer. Even contract workers who spend the day going around, like speakers and consultants, use a computer for supplementary tasks like typing up reports, creating presentations, maintaining a contact database, etc.
And of course, since a laptop is mobile, you bring it anywhere, making better use of your time. Late clients or getting stuck in a hotel lobby no longer wastes your precious time, since you can work on some other project while you wait.
Since they can run on batteries, laptops also allow you to continue working even when all heck breaks loose. Even when the stored power runs out, you can easily bring a laptop around and look for a powered wall socket. Which is exactly what I did in the aftermath of a devastative typhoon.
A laptop is useful even at home. Unlike a desktop that takes up more space and has messy wires, a laptop contains a screen, keyboard, pointing device, and even speakers in one neat package. It definitely makes cleaning your workspace a lot easier! Instead of taking a desktop apart to really get things clean, all you have to do is close your laptop, and pick it up from the desk.
Thanks to better components, a laptop also serves a mobile multi-function machine at your disposal. It’s the cure for situations where you suddenly need to display your portfolio, watch an important video, make last minute changes (aka cramming) or do some research.
In short, a laptop is great because it allows you to bring your work around. Surely some people will complain about this apparent benefit, since all work and no play is indeed a boring and unhealthy way of living. But if an avid computer user like you finds yourself in a pickle, you’ll be glad you decided to bring the laptop around.
Don’t believe me? Then look at how people vote with their money. Back in 2005, laptops supposedly outsold desktops for the first time.
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3 opinions for Oh Laptop, How I Love Thee!
Contract Worker - Stand Up and Be Productive!
Mar 13, 2007 at 2:21 am
[...] Of course, this can’t be done all the time, especially if you don’t own a laptop. But sometimes changing a traditional routine can freshen up things, restarting creativity and providing a boost of energy. [...]
Contract Worker - Surviving Without Access to a Computer
Apr 17, 2007 at 8:05 am
[...] cut off from your electronic tools. A disaster may cut power temporarily. You may have left your laptop somewhere. Unfortunately, your clients won’t suffer such excuses, as you’re paid to [...]
Why You Should Keep Your Equipment in Tip-Top Shape
Oct 8, 2007 at 1:06 am
[...] done. It could be a camera to take pictures, a mobile to keep in touch with clients, or even the laptop I’m using to write this [...]
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