Unconventional Doesn’t Mean Bad
As a freelance writer, I frequently peek at other freelance sites to see what other people are up to. I have to admit that sometimes, I wonder if I’m doing things the “right” way or if I’m just marching along to my own drummer without even noticing (something that happens a lot to me!).
It can be very tempting to just do what other people are doing, but the truth is, that won’t get you ahead! Part of the reason that our businesses move ahead is because we are unique and put something special into what we do. Think about it. When you need to buy a baby shower gift for a friend, where do you go? Why do you go to THAT store or business? Chances are it has something that other places don’t, whether that be lower prices, friendlier staff, a different ambiance or just better products.
While it is a good idea to see what others are doing, since it can be inspiring and might be something you can work with, it’s even better to do what works for you and your business. I’m going to give you a very personal example, but don’t laugh. 
For over a year now, I have been quite successful in my freelancing business and that means that I frequently have more than one assignment at the same time. Which is good, but I happen to be somewhat disorganized when it comes to things like this and it means that I am constantly looking for a way to stay on top of my assignments and deadlines.
Now, everyone has a suggestion for this. Some people suggested software, others use spreadsheets, some write everything down on paper. I’ve tried all of these methods and still end up sifting through my email every day, looking to see what I have due. Not a good method.
Finally, I came up with something that I have been using for a couple of weeks now and which is working just fine for me! And it might work for someone else, too, but the majority of people will likely think I’m nuts (as does my husband!).
(I did consider cleaning my desks but decided I’d share the real life office of a wahm.)
Essentially, my system requires Post-It notes which I write the deadline date at the top of, then I put the number of articles, the number of words, who ordered it, and the general topic. The upper pane of the window is for the coming week. I move the day’s assignments to the window over my laptop and when an assignment is done, I move it to the other side of the window, behind my desktop. It’s utterly bizarre, but it works very well.
The moral of the story? Do what works for you. Your business will benefit from it!
They thought Henry Ford was crazy too. And David Allen! He’s built a whole empire around showing people a new way to keep track of what they’re doing. And I doubt he had that gorgeous view behind his post-it notes!
That’s very true, Cindy. And I do love my view, it’s so calming to look out at the banana trees and jocotes when everything is stressful inside the house!