 We’ve been talking about the challenges of this new year and new decade. My last blog post was about being strategic in your art practice, so that you spend more time on what matters most to you. The first step for many artists is getting organized. How do you organize your time, your studio, your paperwork—how do you organize yourself?
Most systems of organization are not “artist-friendly.” They are linear, like an Excel spreadsheet, or a checklist of to-do items. Such left brain systems do not capture your imagination or release your energy. These systems are often invisible--they get lost somewhere in your desk or on your computer. Out of sight, out of mind. Artists are visual people, so you need to organize yourself visually. Find images and objects that represent your intentions. If you’re trying to plan a career path, draw a map with signposts along the way. If you want to get on top of paperwork, find or create a beautiful container where you collect all the bits and pieces of paper that you need to keep. If you want to organize your time, use a big paper calendar and block out your days in different colors or shapes. Getting organized also means making choices and setting boundaries. You begin by putting your most important work right in front of you. You shape your days around your priorities. You might have to let go of some activities and even some people. You won’t always be flexible and available to others. Since getting organized means doing more of what matters to you, you begin to say NO to less important demands. What is your first step in getting organized? ~ Mary Mary Edwards, Ph.D Career & Life Coach for Artists “Left Brain Skills for Right Brained People” Instagram: coachingforartists.maryedwards Comments are closed.
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