Hey all. I have so many things on my mind that I kinda feel the need to vent a little about my frustrations regarding trying to get on track with goals I have set for 2010. I just had my mother in-law leave after staying over the holiday's for nearly 3 weeks. I wasn't expecting to devote so much time in entertaining her as I was hoping to get some business work done while she was here. Needless to say I have only gotten my work room 95% organized - big goal #1 - with the exception of moving one piece of furniture to another part of the room and organize those shelves. But my main goals are...
1) finding time to fine tune a new product I want to have on the market by Spring as well as updating my website with the new product.
2) use all of January and February to make A LOT of stuff to sell at up coming shows (a couple of Spring shows with 1 wholesale gift show too). Something I kick myself for not devoting enough time to doing so I won't be stressed out the night of a show to finish up unfinished items (like finding out I am out of one product days before an event and desperate to make more).
3) sign up for art fairs. This one is something I should have set - but I don't have the applications all ready to go, in front of me to start filling out and sending in.
4) Get my business insurance up to speed.
5) Get things in order for taxes (which are usually done and submitted by the end of January).
My question to you all is - I NEED HELP! I am finding that through interruptions due to family health issues, working part-time at a place I love (which brings me steady income both in pay as well as in commission on my own items which I sell at my work), that I feel like a hamster in a wheel not getting anywhere. Should I wake up earlier to devote a little more time to getting more office/business stuff done? Should I hire help to get more production done? Or since my holiday company is gone, maybe things will get back to normal and I shouldn't "worry" about the "small stuff" as it will work out in the end? Lastly, am I the only one who seems kinda stretched into several directions trying to balance a craft business and all the other things life throws at you?
Please show me the light at the end of the tunnel!
Michelle
www.bythebaybotanicals.com
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Good news! I am making progress! I just finished updating my finances. Everything is finally logged into the computer - all of '09. There's a few transactions that I need to add regarding my business credit card that need to be entered to get a true idea if I made any profit for '09, but really most of all that stuff is done! I also have a few more things crossed of my "to do lists". Now is just waiting for some supplies I ordered to arrive to the crank out some products. I am pumped now that I am clearing things off my plate. Now I dance.... Thanks all for your help and advice!
All of this talk about goals and tasks has made me think about taking a look at my long term goals and re-organize my task list also - the new year would be a good time to do this. My task list is always 3 times longer then I could possibly accomplish - I resolve this by prioritizing - what 2 or 3 things do I absolutely have to accomplish - and what needs to be done first. I only worry about those few tasks, and the rest of the list will either get re-prioritized later, or things will eventually drop off the end into never - ever land.
Thanks Paula! I don't want to fall into the category of "tell me what to do with my life", but the guidance you offer is exactly what I need to hear. It is like I am swimming in mud and you showed me a clean fresh swimming pool (which sounds great right now since it is 28 degrees outside!). I have since emailed my husband - who's at work now like me as I type this - if he is willing to help me (I would hire him) about an hour a day for the next two weeks that I can be caught up with all the things I have on my plate.
Michelle, I have also found the holidays to take up a lot of my time because of family obligations and time spent away from my studio. I try to just let Thanksgiving and Christmas be my "down time" for the year and if I get anything done in there then it's a bonus. I realize your trying to keep a business up so that may be stretching it for you. Whenever my in-laws visit for a long time I always tell them that when my girls go down to nap that that is my time to paint. So I do things with them in the morning and evening but devote at least 4 hours to art stuff. It may not seem like a lot but it gets things done.
I have two folders I keep by my computer all the time: Upcoming Shows and Shows I've Applied To, that way, all I have to do is check those (some are on Zapp but some still require the paper fill-out application). I keep all my shows from the previous year in the Shows I've applied Too and then when I get my new calendar for the year I fill in the dates for deadlines (especially those I like).
I think it is very helpful to put your goals up for the year that way you can say to yourself, "is this getting what I really want done?" and if it is than do it. Even on the days I have so many errands to run and my girls to take care of and food to prepare I find some time in there where I was working towards a goal. It makes me feel like I've put a little wind in my sail even if it was 10 minutes.
Michelle, I get frustrated too. It's o.k. to vent and feel what you feel. Even my veteran friends tell me, "I never get everything done I want to for the next show." and that always makes me feel better. All I can do it my best. If you run out of product then take orders and send the costumer a "free gift" in there (just a little something) to let them know the wait was worth it.
I pray you are blessed this year by seeing your goals nearer and nearer.
Michelle,
I can sympathize with you. Other responsibilities can zap your time and energy, but we can also procrastinate especially with tasks we are not keen on doing. I am not a morning person especially since I retired from the school system, so I tend to stay up later to work on projects. I do put off paperwork of all kinds - not my idea of fun. I will make new pieces of jewelry when I should be doing other things like filing sales tax, updating web stores, organizing my work space, etc. In terms of hiring someone, that is first and foremost a matter of economics. Personally, I can't afford to hire someone and still make a profit. Also, it takes time to supervise and teach someone what you want them to do. Most of your tasks that you have listed, have to be done by you, although you could hire an accountant for taxes, a web person to update your site, or somone to physically help you organize but you still have to do the prep work. All it takes is money. I sometimes go into overwhelm, have trouble deciding, and can't see the forest for the trees. I also work best under pressure - something about aeneline. Good luck to you - as they say "Just do it"
My well thought out goals, which are written out as advised above, involve the tasks I have mentioned earlier - just want to clarify that. I am sorry for not really stating that before. Again I was just frustrated and "venting".
I hear what everyone is saying. I am even listening to what everyone is saying too. I think the main issue isn't about "organizing" my goals, but ideas on how to better manage my time in completing tasks so I can cross off some goals I have. For instance, what are some tell signs I should hire someone to help me and should I entertain that idea? Does anyone here find they are more productive if they get up earlier/stay up later to devote time to production or whatever - does this work? I am also finding my time being eaten up consoling my mom who is a caregiver to my dad, and just this week she - herself - went into the hospital (for a few hours) due to chest pains. This whole ordeal occurred from 10:30 p.m. - 4:00 a.m. where I then got up at 8:00 so I can take my mother in-law to the airport - yet another production day gone. Where I stand each day could be a very productive day - w/o interruptions, or not at all and then fall behind. Family is very important to me, but I also feel this is sucking up a lot of time and holding me back from getting my goals/tasks completed too. Is there an easier way to handle family issues and a business - mind you do not have kids just parents who are not in the best of health (I am 32 - if that matters and have had a craft business (doing art shows and craft fairs since 2002).
I have a strict motto where I refuse to play until my work - tasks, etc. are completed. Maybe with this added info, does anyone have any suggestions? Perhaps there are others out there wondering - when is it time to hire someone or having issues with managing time too that could use this advice as well - not assuming, just guessing. :-) Thanks for your help!
I agree with Geoff. You haven't listed goals, but tasks.
So tackle one at a time. OK, if you feel you need to reorganize your workrooom, take a day (today) and just do it. Then prioritize everything else and just cross each one off as you do it.
As far as making enough product, I simply have a list of how many of each item I MUST have for each show, and make it. When that item's done I go to the next one. I need a hundred plant hangers, fifty flag holders, etc. I notified the steel company yesterday of how many sheets and coils I need for my spring shows. I just tackle one task at a time.
Agreed. Each month, I look at my "big goals" and select something within them to work on for the month. That becomes my monthly goal. Sometimes, I can break it down to weekly goals.
Hi Michelle, The things you have listed aren't goals. They're tasks.
Sounds like a trivial point to make, perhaps. But it's not. No one--and I mean, no one--is energized by the length of their to-do list. So I'd suggest finding some quiet, focused time to look at that laundry list and ask: "What's the thing that lights me up, that makes me jump out of bed in the morning, that all of these tasks are sourced by?" Or (said another way)--what's the grand purpose behind all those tasks?
It'll take a while to think of it, and another while to refine it until it's short and sweet, like a mantra, that's easily said and memorized. But once you have it, it'll inspire you and make the hair stand up on the back of your neck.
Then write it down at the top of every page of your to-do list, or on your webpage, or your refrigerator, or whatever place you keep your life organized. Make sure it's somewhere where you see it every day. And then, share it with everyone you know.
It won't just inspire you--it'll help bring organization and direction to that to-do list by reminding you of the purpose behind all of it.
Hi Michelle,
The things you have listed aren't goals. They're tasks.
Sounds like a trivial point to make, perhaps. But it's not. No one--and I mean, no one--is energized by the length of their to-do list. So I'd suggest finding some quiet, focused time to look at that laundry list and ask: "What's the thing that lights me up, that makes me jump out of bed in the morning, that all of these tasks are sourced by?" Or (said another way)--what's the grand purpose behind all those tasks?
It'll take a while to think of it, and another while to refine it until it's short and sweet, like a mantra, that's easily said and memorized. But once you have it, it'll inspire you and make the hair stand up on the back of your neck.
Then write it down at the top of every page of your to-do list, or on your webpage, or your refrigerator, or whatever place you keep your life organized. Make sure it's somewhere where you see it every day. And then, share it with everyone you know.
It won't just inspire you--it'll help bring organization and direction to that to-do list by reminding you of the purpose behind all of it.
Replies
Purse Stuff - Paula said:
I have two folders I keep by my computer all the time: Upcoming Shows and Shows I've Applied To, that way, all I have to do is check those (some are on Zapp but some still require the paper fill-out application). I keep all my shows from the previous year in the Shows I've applied Too and then when I get my new calendar for the year I fill in the dates for deadlines (especially those I like).
I think it is very helpful to put your goals up for the year that way you can say to yourself, "is this getting what I really want done?" and if it is than do it. Even on the days I have so many errands to run and my girls to take care of and food to prepare I find some time in there where I was working towards a goal. It makes me feel like I've put a little wind in my sail even if it was 10 minutes.
Michelle, I get frustrated too. It's o.k. to vent and feel what you feel. Even my veteran friends tell me, "I never get everything done I want to for the next show." and that always makes me feel better. All I can do it my best. If you run out of product then take orders and send the costumer a "free gift" in there (just a little something) to let them know the wait was worth it.
I pray you are blessed this year by seeing your goals nearer and nearer.
I can sympathize with you. Other responsibilities can zap your time and energy, but we can also procrastinate especially with tasks we are not keen on doing. I am not a morning person especially since I retired from the school system, so I tend to stay up later to work on projects. I do put off paperwork of all kinds - not my idea of fun. I will make new pieces of jewelry when I should be doing other things like filing sales tax, updating web stores, organizing my work space, etc. In terms of hiring someone, that is first and foremost a matter of economics. Personally, I can't afford to hire someone and still make a profit. Also, it takes time to supervise and teach someone what you want them to do. Most of your tasks that you have listed, have to be done by you, although you could hire an accountant for taxes, a web person to update your site, or somone to physically help you organize but you still have to do the prep work. All it takes is money. I sometimes go into overwhelm, have trouble deciding, and can't see the forest for the trees. I also work best under pressure - something about aeneline. Good luck to you - as they say "Just do it"
I hear what everyone is saying. I am even listening to what everyone is saying too. I think the main issue isn't about "organizing" my goals, but ideas on how to better manage my time in completing tasks so I can cross off some goals I have. For instance, what are some tell signs I should hire someone to help me and should I entertain that idea? Does anyone here find they are more productive if they get up earlier/stay up later to devote time to production or whatever - does this work? I am also finding my time being eaten up consoling my mom who is a caregiver to my dad, and just this week she - herself - went into the hospital (for a few hours) due to chest pains. This whole ordeal occurred from 10:30 p.m. - 4:00 a.m. where I then got up at 8:00 so I can take my mother in-law to the airport - yet another production day gone. Where I stand each day could be a very productive day - w/o interruptions, or not at all and then fall behind. Family is very important to me, but I also feel this is sucking up a lot of time and holding me back from getting my goals/tasks completed too. Is there an easier way to handle family issues and a business - mind you do not have kids just parents who are not in the best of health (I am 32 - if that matters and have had a craft business (doing art shows and craft fairs since 2002).
I have a strict motto where I refuse to play until my work - tasks, etc. are completed. Maybe with this added info, does anyone have any suggestions? Perhaps there are others out there wondering - when is it time to hire someone or having issues with managing time too that could use this advice as well - not assuming, just guessing. :-) Thanks for your help!
So tackle one at a time. OK, if you feel you need to reorganize your workrooom, take a day (today) and just do it. Then prioritize everything else and just cross each one off as you do it.
As far as making enough product, I simply have a list of how many of each item I MUST have for each show, and make it. When that item's done I go to the next one. I need a hundred plant hangers, fifty flag holders, etc. I notified the steel company yesterday of how many sheets and coils I need for my spring shows. I just tackle one task at a time.
Barb
www.sistakbaur.com
Geoff Coe said:
The things you have listed aren't goals. They're tasks.
Sounds like a trivial point to make, perhaps. But it's not. No one--and I mean, no one--is energized by the length of their to-do list. So I'd suggest finding some quiet, focused time to look at that laundry list and ask: "What's the thing that lights me up, that makes me jump out of bed in the morning, that all of these tasks are sourced by?" Or (said another way)--what's the grand purpose behind all those tasks?
It'll take a while to think of it, and another while to refine it until it's short and sweet, like a mantra, that's easily said and memorized. But once you have it, it'll inspire you and make the hair stand up on the back of your neck.
Then write it down at the top of every page of your to-do list, or on your webpage, or your refrigerator, or whatever place you keep your life organized. Make sure it's somewhere where you see it every day. And then, share it with everyone you know.
It won't just inspire you--it'll help bring organization and direction to that to-do list by reminding you of the purpose behind all of it.
Good luck!