I’m constantly looking for ways to make my life a bit more efficient. Aren’t we all? Each week is different for me which is what I love most about where I am now in my career but with this comes a bit of crazy. Juggling a mix of projects in the works, styling clients throughout the Bay Area, and previously buying for Syllabus means I’ve had to up my organization skills big time. This is hard for a Libra like me who is a creative procrastinator (I hate to admit that but my best ideas come at the very last minute). Here are a couple of ways I’ve been better managing my time and things that have drastically helped me manage my efficiency…
1. Cut down on travel time. It’s not uncommon for me to drive into San Francisco a couple times a week. And previously when I was a part of Syllabus (I recently left the store) I was driving 4+ hours a day to get to the store and back. I’ve cut way back on my driving which has given me so much more time in my day. I’ve added workouts back into my routine and now schedule as many appointments and friend dates on the days I’m in SF to maximize my time in the city.
2. Learn when you’re most productive. This is something I’ve read over and over but never really stopped to figure out for myself. Now that I’m lucky enough to create my own schedule I’ve learned that I’m most creative and a better writer in the mornings and late evenings. During the middle of the day I’m easily distracted, want to snack, and would much rather be out exploring. Instead of forcing myself to stay glued to my computer I schedule any calls, styling clients, meetings, workouts, haircuts, shoots etc. during the 12-4:30pm time frame.
3. Set mini deadlines. My inbox can give me serious anxiety so instead of making those piled-up emails daunting I turn it into a timed game. I give myself 20 minute increments and take breaks in between. This is something I used to do at my previous 9-to-5 desk jobs as well. My ex-ELLE coworker and girlfriend Lauren and I would set timed deadlines for our stories and then walk to get an afternoon tea or smoothie once completed. Having someone holding you accountable for those deadlines makes you work even more efficiently because you don’t want to miss out on your smoothie date!
4. Make getting paid easier. Invoicing and dealing with money is kind of the worst. At least for me. Deciding to get a Square to use with my styling clients has been so convenient for me. They love that they can just hand over their credit card. Another money savior – Square Cash. The money deposits directly into your bank account and you can easily send money to friends or pay for services.
5. Be realistic. It’s easy to create a mile long to-do list with everything you need to do but I’ve learned it’s best to prioritize. Tackle the most time-sentitive projects first and be realistic with yourself and your day. Yes the laundry is often put on the back burner but I’m way less stressed if I have laundry to fold at the end of the day rather than an upset client.
Thank you to Square Cash for collaborating on this post!
Photography by Arna Bee