If you work on a project basis, for example as a consultant or as a short term contractor, avoid the pitfalls of having to manage ‘drought and flood’ finances by establishing a deposit policy for work in progress.
You should be entitled to ask for a percentage of the project’s value upfront and may be able to design a payment policy based on certain milestones within the project so you can keep your cash flowing. Some clients may be able to pay you a weekly wage akin to long term contracts with the remainder paid upon completion of the project.