As you probably know, celebrities are one of America’s most precious natural resources. Without star power, America would be just another country, like Canada or New Zealand. When it comes to celebrities, Paris Hilton is at the top of the heap. Not known for her talent, generosity, intelligence or class, she has nonetheless become one of America’s most talked about women. An example of her skills at presentation and publicity can be seen in her recent stay in jail. We truly can learn from her. Here are five lessons freelancers can learn from Paris Hilton’s three days in jail.

Get an Early Start

One of the keys to success as a writer is to start a project as early as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute. Paris Hilton showed up at jail two days early. That allowed her to get an early jump on her jail term, just as you should jump on projects as soon as possible. How many projects have you gotten off to a poor start on, simply because you put them off? Make sure to tackle projects in a timely manner so that you can make the most of the results. You, like Paris Hilton, just may be rewarded for it down the line.

Look for Creative Solutions

Rather than turn herself into jail at the women’s facility, where everyone was waiting for her, Paris cleverly turned herself into the men’s facility. This allowed her to be processed much more quickly and with fewer distractions than if she had attempted the same thing at the women’s facility in front of the hundreds of paparazzi and interested bystanders. How many times have you struggled with a project only to figure out an easier method later. Take the time to look at your options before you start. Good planning can eliminate needless work.

Make Sure Your Presentation is Attractive

Unlike other celebrities, who failed to prepare for their mug shots, Paris Hilton showed up in an attractive outfit with impeccable hair, makeup and a smile on her face. Take a look at your portfolio, business cards and web site. Could they be more attractive or professional? Take a look at your work. Have you been cutting corners on presentation?

Make Space for Yourself

Paris Hilton made sure to get her own special cell. This allowed her time to think about her life and her options. Without that private space, her three days in jail may have been substantially less productive. If a prisoner can find space for themselves, surely you can find a place to put your home office. Having a quality workspace helps you perform quality work.

Don’t settle for less than you deserve

Most prisoners would have simply eaten the food that was given them, no matter what the quality. Paris Hilton refused to settle. Rather than eat food that wasn’t worthy of her position, she simply chose not to eat. Not only did this prompt the facility to release her, it allowed her to shed the extra weight she has been carrying since Christmas (she was up almost two pounds). How many bad clients or low paying jobs have you accepted simply because you felt you needed the work? Sometimes you need to hold out for something better, just like Paris Hilton.