My number 1 when people ask is to build up a chunk of cash behind you (enough to live on for a couple of months or more ideally) before you start out freelance and then try to maintain it at that level. Takes so much stress away and as a bonus, think it gives the confidence to say no to bad projects!

Also, I’ve always had freeagent, and wouldn’t be without. It ‘knows’ and has workflow for things like invoicing/book keeping/payroll/dividends/tax etc etc and so makes them much easier than a spreadsheet would. I also really like that the accountant has a login so it’s really easy for them to correct/do stuff, or to discuss things.