When I first started writing blog posts on this site, I often created tutorials for specific technologies. At the time it made sense, my clients needed help to do a particular task and I like to share useful information. In recent years, even though the need remains, my posts have shifted focus. Why? Several reasons. […]
General
new normal, redux.
As I’ve written, Black lives matter. I found How to be an Antiracist (library availability) as well as Me and White Supremacy (library availability) to be two good places to start learning. I’m reading The Torture Letters (library availability) to begin to better understand how we arrived at certain current events. To create lasting change […]
my tools, an intro
One of the first questions about my planning system that I’m often asked is “What do I use?” While I find the question exacerbating, I understand. It is one of the first questions I ask others! Why do we pose this question? I believe it’s a combination of reasons that boil down to curiosity. We […]
tips for when focus is a struggle
Try as we might, it’s difficult to find focus every day. Some days are more susceptible to focus challenges than others. My focus this morning wasn’t good at all. Here are three tips I used today to get some work completed, including this post! Tip One : Work on the Small Tasks There are always […]
desk cleaning routine
When I’m in the middle of a work project, my desk is the definition of chaos. Papers are stacked in a system that makes sense only to me (sometimes). Pens and index cards are strewn everywhere. Depending on the project, there may even be yarn and related materials everywhere. Notebooks exist in precarious piles. Why […]
autumn focus for editing tasks
Autumn is the time of year when I most want to change my systems. Perhaps it’s from those long years of beginning a new school year each September that still have me looking for a new routine each September. Over the years I’ve found more effective ways to channel this seasonal need for change. I […]
3 simple tips to reset
When nothing is going how you believe it should and you are frustrated, the solution is simple. Reboot. It’s something writer Anne Lamott discovered and shared at TED2017 and it went viral for good reason. She said, “almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes. That includes you.” Ok, so […]
3 tips to catch up without burn-out
When you feel as if you haven’t been able to catch up on work, what do you do? It’s tempting to power through and put in longer hours. However, that can lead to burn-out, defined by the WHO (in ICD-11) as a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully […]
3 tips for trade show productivity
I’m off at a trade show this weekend (The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) Summer Show in Cleveland Ohio) and it creates chaos to my regular schedule. Here are three tips I have for staying productive. Tip one – Water Stay hydrated. Whether you’re exhibiting or attending make sure to drink water and you probably need […]
schedule solitude
There is a reoccurring daily appointment in my calendar that is more important to me than any planning or review. It’s my scheduled alone time. I schedule fifteen minutes early in the morning and when possible I spend that time outside with a cup of tea. There is no checking of my phone (albeit I […]