articles

How to Manage the Year 2015

January 22, 2015
Many people have asked me how do I stay so organized and do all that I do.  It's not easy and I want to quit at times, but I don't because I LOVE what I do.

Besides being involved with my family and their activities, I work full time in NYC, I own my own design business, I am an independent consultant for Neal's Yard Remedies (NYR Organic) and I am the publisher mom of Holbrook Macaroni Kid.  Yes it's a lot, but I really do love what I do.

I try to keep myself organized as much as possible.  And I try to keep it simple.  Really all I use is a planner and the calendar on my cell phone.

The type of planner I like to use is one that shows the entire month at once.  This allows me to see all my appointments/activities all at once.  Using different colored high lighters to color code each business and family activities helps also too.  I try to keep it as neat as possible.  Try is the key word! LOL

I also use my cell phone calendar as a reminder of things that are coming up or things that I have going on that day.  My phone will alarm me each time about an hour or so before, but if you find this useful for yourself, you can set the alarm to go off any time you want before your appointment or activity.  The friendly reminders are always helpful. 

Really what it comes down to is managing my time efficiently. I leave certain days for certain things or do certain things at certain times.  For example, I do most of my computer work on the train while I commute back and forth from the city. 

i 've also learned the hardway that it's okay to say "NO" to things and people.  You don't realize how much you are doing and the time you are spending working until your kids start saying "you are always working."  Make sure you are scheduling time with your family.  It is so important.  Even though you may have a lot to do, put it aside, it will be there later or you can even do it tomorrow.  Enjoy the time relaxing and having fun with your kids/family or just relax and enjoy the YOU time!  It's okay to say "NO."

As 2015 has all ready started, I'm already planning "ME" time and "FAMILY" time! Make 2015 about YOU and YOUR FAMILY!