Bright Shiny Objects
It’s true. I am afflicted by Bright Shiny Object Syndrome.
My kids used to try walk between me and the displays at the store so I wouldn’t be distracted!
Remember, my word for the year is FOCUS? The Professional Quilter Newsletter arrived in my in-box this morning and I swear that Morna was writing this article for me!
As I formulate my list of to-dos for market in May, I see that there are three teaching engagements, a trip to the East Coast, two kids graduating (High School and College) and at least six projects that have to happen before I can get in the car to drive to Kansas City on May 16th. Holy Cow!
Making a list is key and a great organizational tool that my friend Susan Nelson shared with me is what she calls a T&A. Tasks and Activities, just to be clear :-). It’s a wonderful chart that lists all of the quilt projects that need to be organized – fabrics chosen, quilts made, quilted and bound, and photographed. Patterns to be written, tested, printed and pattern covers to be designed. I live by it.
The other thing that has helped me stay on track – believe it or not – is taking up knitting! Don’t worry, I’m not crossing over! My BFF Jenni opened a cute little yarn shop last fall. Now the only time I get to see her is if I take a class or hang out at open knitting. Anyway, what I discovered is that knitting feeds my creative soul. It is not work or work related (you know – the QUILT stuff!). It’s something I look forward to doing after the studio closes down. It gives me a reason to switch gears at the end of the day. It has actually helped me FOCUS on what I need to get done. I’m making my first sweater! Who knew?
Celine,
Sounds like you have a busy spring ahead! What great milestones though for your family.
Love your word for 2012-focus. I definitely can relate!
Wish Imwas going to spring market bu it is the weekend of my son’s wedding so Imguess I have a good excuse. We are so excited!
Good luck with all your projects and with staying focused.
P.s. I have been knitting for years and just took my first class. A great complimentary hobby! Have fun with the sweater!
Hi Celine,
Thanks for mention and I love the word Focus. Do you think when I talk about having identified my ideal client, I have you in mind?
Funny how you knit to relax and I’ll quilt to relax. Having alternate hobbies does feed the need to be creative outside of our profession. As long as there’s a limited amount of Pinot involved
This must be the night of the Sharons. Thanks for the article on BSOS. I didn’t realize it, but I think I am afflicted with it.
I think it’s more common than any of us ever realized.
That is a good idea…making a list. I think I will try it. You and I share the same word for this year…..good luck to you…
It’s actually helped me get on track when I get distracted! I should have done this word thing a long time ago!
Hi
This really hit the spot. I have spent so much time on the Internet this week. Now back to work.
Sharon
It’s so easy to start wandering…kind of like going to Target for paper towels and ending up with a cart full of stuff.