A To-Do List for Translators

I am quite aware that there are periods in every translator’s career that there is literary no time to eat, drink, see friends, find the soul mate etc. There are some other times though that the schedule is quite flexible. Regardless the period, here is a list of things to do that has helped me when in working-like-crazy mode:

  1. Manage your time successfully. Make a plan and stick to it. (Time for meals, showers, etc should also be in your schedule).
  2. Do not leave your PC and get off the chair unless you have finished the number of words of the day. If you do, this means, that tomorrow you will have to make up for it.
  3. Do not neglect your marketing activities. It may be that they will land you your next big project, when the one you are working on is completed.
  4. Try not to work too late during the night. Of course, there are people like me that are more productive during the night.  I try not to overdo it.
  5. Keep yourself hydrated.
  6. It is advisable not to be logged in on Facebook and/or Skype. There are always people that want to chat, but it takes part of the time you have dedicated to your work, plus it distracts your thoughts and you will have to re-read the entire sentence or even paragraph. This also takes time.
  7. I am one of this people that cannot work in total peace and quiet. I need some sort of background noise (!) and so I choose my favorite rock song play-list.
  8. Try not to be sitting for many hours in a row. Stand up from the chair (to make a cup of tea or coffee) and stretch your back.
  9. Do not neglect exercising your body. Whatever happens, one hour in the gym is compulsory to me.
  10. Do not stress. I tend to be more productive when stressed but it is not good to my health.

I am sure that there are more things that could be added to this list. Do you have any that you think they would be helpful to translators? Please, do share your thoughts!

This Post Has 6 Comments
    1. Natali,

      Yes, you are right! Oh and I got one good one on my Facebook fan page

      – Paula Castelão says: Enjoy your meals away from the PC…

      Don’t we all forget to do it?

      Thanks for your comment!

  1. I am probably guilty of every single one of those during busy periods. Apart from no. 7; I have to have total peace and quiet, otherwise I start singing along instead of concentrating. 😉
    Thanks so much for sharing. It is a great reminder.

    1. Dear Claire!

      Thank you for your comment! Yes, it is a great reminder for all of us! Mostly, me! 😛

      Thanks again for your comment!

  2. Really important points to take into account, above all, for those who are new in this business, like me! 🙂

    1. Anna Maria,

      Thank you for your comment! Even the most experienced of the translators forget sometimes! Good luck in the translation field!

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