I find my microcassette recorder to be a trusty friend. Once the thought is on tape, I can move on to other things. Surround yourself with several advisers-at all different levels. Not just your lawyer, your accountant, and people in your field. You can trust these folks to give you objective advice.
Many free agents speak of how long and hard they work, as if it's a badge of courage.
Oh, I haven't taken time off in eight years. They may think it's a sign of dedication, but I think it's pathetic. Free time is valuable because it keeps you fresh. When you're hiking in the woods or reading a novel, solutions to problems that you've been struggling with for days can become clear in an instant. People think everything has to be worked out in detail before they start.