Most freelancers have already encountered clients which would do and say anything just to get the most out of their hired freelancer or part-timer. Some clients exploit the negotiating process and low-ball the rate of the project while other’s milk their service providers with every cent that their paying them, making revisions after revisions and minor adjustments that take forever.

These “clients-from hell” often promise more work in the future if you’ll give the “present” work at a discounted rate. Saying that they need to “test” you out first before they pass on projects at a regular basis. When you get this type of client, watch out. The pay you’ll be receiving (if it’s enough, that is) is not worth the headache and stress that you’ll get.

In case the inevitable happens and you got cornered and said yes to a project, try finishing it as quickly as possible (with quality of course). After that, learn to say NO once they seek your services again. You are better spending your time on other valuable and less-stressful projects with not-so-picky clients.

Some things are just not worth it.

These are the seven worst habits of workaholics…

1. Forgetting to relax
While some stress can be good because it keeps you alert and motivated, too much stress or chronic stress will take its toll on your body.

2. Eating on the go
Between meetings, conference calls and deadlines, workaholics forget to take out time to sit down for a healthy lunch. But a good meal is exactly what a person needs to stay mentally sharp throughout the day.

3. Putting off sleep for work
Even busy professionals need seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Missing out on sleep can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating, memory problems and poor judgment. It has also been linked to obesity.

4. Not making time for exercise
Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days is very important to immediate and future health.

5. Working even when sick
Many people come to work despite being ill. But there are three common sense reasons to stay home – Nobody wants your germs, you’ll be less productive and you need your rest to get better.

6. Drinking (too much)
Excessive drinking can lead to alcoholism, liver disease and some forms of cancer.

7. Skipping annual medical checkups
In order to detect problems early, prevent others from developing and get the best treatment if you have a condition, you need to know what’s going on in your body.

[via Huffington Post]