Hair Stylists, Artists, Designers, Writers and Many More...
I know how much of a challenge it can be for busy, creative people to get and stay organized! When you’re faced with meeting client deadlines and marketing yourself to find your next gig, it can seem like getting organized is just “one more thing” on the ever growing to do list. But taking the time to get organized can help you, and your business in a variety of ways, mentally, physically and financially!
Recognize the facts, advantages and benefits of getting organized.
When I work with creative types, the main concern they raise is that getting organized is not their cup of tea… overwhelming and something they despise doing. It's not in their creative nature. IBut what I’ve seen with my clients is that getting organized can enhance their work and creativity by letting them focus on what’s important rather than the details of “where’s that client file” or “under which pile of stuff is my extra ink” etc. Getting organized takes a little time and focus up front, but can save you lots of time and stress down the road. And it saves money too… no more unnecessary store purchases for supplies that you already have hidden in a closet or drawer. As I always say “For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned”.
Set aside the time to organize, prioritize to organize!
I know you’re busy with projects for your clients, but remember, taking care of the administrative end of your business, including managing paperwork, billing, and email, is critical to the success of any business, small or large. Unfortunately, your admin and organizing tasks won’t complete themselves, so schedule time to work on your organizing projects. Once they’re completed, schedule a regular appointment with yourself in your calendar to maintain your system(s). A rule of thumb – it takes about 15-30 minutes each day to deal with that day’s worth of new paper, incoming mail. Make sure you have enough time set aside to process your paper, purge, sort, recycle, file and especially client billing!
Make it fun; get creative with your organizing tools.
When I’m working with designers and other creative folks, I frequently hear “but the organizing tools are so ugly!” Unfortunately, it’s mostly true… many of the containers and other organizing supplies out there are pretty boring and focus on functionality over form! But more and more are coming out with colors and style too. There are ways to make sure that your organizing tools match your aesthetic eye. By doing this, you can completely customize the look of your storage and contained materials. Look for organizing tools that you can customize in various ways, by decorating, painting, or using it in new and unexpected ways! Use organization as an opportunity to use your creativity.
Give things a home! A permanent home.
One of the most important concepts when you’re organizing is to recognize when your supplies, files, and other items don’t have an assigned home. If they can’t be neatly put away, they become clutter and when you need them, you can't find them. Make sure to take the time to assign homes for each of the things that are around your studio or office. That way, when it’s time to find things, it’s easy to do so, and it’s equally easy to put things away when you’re done.
Organizing your studio or creative space saves time, money and allows you to focus on your artistic ventures with an uncluttered space and mind.
Need help getting creative with your organization? Call or email The Organizer Gal for a complimentary consultation.
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