Lessons Learned – The Importance of taking care of yourself
Try to maintain a work routine – I found that “time blocking” for floral work was much more efficient than multitasking between home and work. If I promised a proposal by Tuesday A.M. and spent all day trying to toggle personal and floral tasks, I found it was infinitely more more difficult and frustrating to multitask all day instead of devoting 2 hours Monday night to finish the task. Keep business business.
Make lists – Making a task list is a natural thing to do when there are many details to stay on top of, but the act of writing congeals and commits things to memory beyond just thinking things out. Beside each task I tried to note a few next steps, or anticipated follow-up tasks.
Ask for help – If I had a nickel for every minute spent second guessing myself over an arrangement I’d have covered my annual Starbucks tab. We have phones with cameras so snap a shot and ask for guidance from your network on hang-ups like color matching and texture, etc. It always helps to get “a second set of eyes” or “reality check” when you need it. Use your network of designers and ask for help. This industry can get lonely at times. Get perspective by pulling together.
Keep up your family and networks – Family for support, work for posterity; nothing can exist long-term in a vacuum, you included.
Stay positive – good begets good, bad begets bad. Walks, Yoga, family time and strong positive relationships. These are the things that help keep your chin up. Also , support other vendors. People remember naysayers, back stabbers, bullies, the lazy ones and those who steal the credit. Keep your integrity. Support those closest to you, disconnect from the negative people in your life.
Focus on you – Take care of yourself. Make sure to clear out some time for yourself every day. Your friends and family are the ones that will always be there for you. Make sure to always make yourself available to those who love you most.
Stay creative – Take the time to learn new things, keep a notebook for ideas, be inspired by things outside the industry, try to learn new ways of doing things. Imagine new possibilities. Keep your passion fueled!
What has helped you to maintain life and work balance?
Setting limits on when I’m available has been a huge help for maintaining a more balanced work situation. I am not necessarily available on holiday weekends or late in the evenings for consultations. I don’t check my e-mail right before bed. I end my work day at a reasonable hour. I check-out of work and check-in to my personal life without guilt!