working from home

Lately, a lot of you have been asking me what it's like to be self-employed with a creative job. It's extremely rewarding but sometimes it can be difficult to stay organized and motivated when it's only me. I've been taking a few notes along the way and here are a few of the things that help me the most:

1. Writing everything down and keeping it where I see it every day: I make lots of lists and have books full of them but I've found that the best way for me to keep track of everything that needs to be done in a week/month along with long term goals, a chalkboard works best. I keep it right on my desk, which is in my office, which I'm in every day so there's no way that I can't see it. Getting to erase things off of the board is also quite rewarding!

2. Make your bed every day: This sounds silly but seriously, do it. Starting off the day with a routine that involves something like this is a good idea because in a small way, it gets you ready for a day of productivity. Plus it looks a lot nicer and less cluttered. Clutter is TERRIBLE for getting stuff done! I can't think straight when things are a mess.

3. Have inspiration all around you: It's so easy to fall into a rut when you're working a creative job. If you work from home, you have the power to control your environment and fill it with lots of things that inspire. My nightstand is one example of that. I keep a journal with a pen in so many places in my home so that I'll always have a spot to jot down ideas and never lose them in the search for a pen and paper. One of my favorite things now is to work outside or in my solarium. Having the entire house to work from is great for that reason: you don't have to stay in one place! If you start to get a little bored and uninspired, just pick up and get to a more inspiring place. 

4. Music, and lots of it: I don't know about you but I can't work without music. I didn't realize this until a few weeks ago though. Making lots of playlists of songs that you love along with a few new ones will help you get in the zone. 

xo, e.m.