The trap of flexible work schedule: How unusual working patterns influence the work-life balance of freelancers

Abstract

The study problematizes the role of flexible working hours in the life of self-employed professionals (freelancers). High levels of autonomy to manage time not only bring benefits but May also lead to self-exploitation. The study is based on the data of the online survey “Freelancer Census” (2019) and the RLMS-HSE (2017). The authors argue that compared to the national average freelancers have to work in non-standard working hours (working night, weekend, and holiday) when other workers take a rest. Regression analysis shows that non-standard working hours May lead to poor work-life balance in the life of freelancers. The most vulnerable groups are women, individuals who have spouses (partners) and freelancers having minor children.