Friday, February 28, 2014

Neither Disorganized nor Unorganized

This is how I understand the difference between unorganized and disorganized. Unorganized means there is no structure or organization. Disorganized means there is a structure or organization, but it isn't being followed. For example, my filing system is disorganized. I use an alphabetical system of organization but there are a number of files yet to be put in their proper home.


Above, see the empty box of chocolates re-purposed as a paperclip container? That's an example of organization. It's neither disorganized or unorganized. It is also an example of not paying proper attention to my business and professionalism. Recently, I rectified that embarrassing situation and overhauled my office. It didn't take very long, only about six hours total, which included the time spent purchasing organizational tools. I was inspired by Cindy Faith Swain, principal of OrganizeSB. Check out her blog post Organizing 101: Tip 1.


Above, now the paperclips and other office supplies have a proper home. I really can't tell you why I didn't bother with this type of organization before now. I mean, containers are that expensive. And, it feels so much better, kind of like right after you get your car washed.


Above, I love having purple cases in my office. They really brighten the place up, don't you think?

As for the empty box of chocolates? I still have it. I think it is a beautiful example of packaging and graphics. Should you ever find yourself in a Japanese market, or in Japan for that matter, be sure to try the Meiji Almond Chocolates - semisweet. They are delicious. Guaranteed.

Friday, February 14, 2014

A Love Letter

Had one of my best nights ever last night – yes, the night before Valentine’s Day! I went to the UCSB Arts & Lectures presentation of Gloria Steinem at the Arlington Theater in Santa Barbara. She was wonderful!

And, she's a wonderful writer. Have you ever read her "I was a Playboy bunny" expose? Really good stuff. Check it out here. It's easy for me to forget that she is a journalist. Seems her humanitarian work overshadows that nowadays. She is inspirational in every way.

Certainly, my life, and everyone else's in this country, and I don't think that is an exagerration, would be completely different if not for Gloria Steinem. Of course, she didn't accomplish all that single-handedly, but she was definitely one of the leaders. Thank you so much, Gloria. I look forward to reading your next book. Keep up the good work, and I'll keep up mine.

Below photo: Gloria Steinem is on the lecture circuit. I found her to be a gracious, empathetic, engaging, warm, charming, and intelligent speaker. If you have the chance, go see her. Click here to see what the Los Angeles Times had to say. Different event than I went to, that's for sure!

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Making Room for New Work in the New Year

From the Life as a Freelance Writer department:

January was a pretty slow month for me in the-getting-paid-for-writing sense. I'm happy to report I used the down time wisely. Among other things, I worked on my marketing, including social media; composed query letters; made new contacts; and cleaned out my office including tons of paper. I'm actually thinking about transferring one of my file cabinets to my garage. That's how thorough I was, and that's how "paperless" I've become.

I'm happy to report that the new year lull ended with a surprise ghostwriting job dropped in my lap. Of course, that job begat other jobs and soon I was sweating some deadlines. What a great problem that is to have! I hope it lasts all year and into 2015.

Though I can't prove it or explain it, I don't think that dry-spell-ending job would have found me if I had not used my down time wisely. Maybe I didn't will it to me, but I certainly was ready when it arrived.

Below is the filing cabinet whose next destination is the garage. During a dip in business last month I used the time to purge my office. I'm a firm believer in getting rid of the old to make room for the new. On a less abstract level, I really think my filing cabinets are beautiful. I love the blond wood and compact size. My friend Susan gave them to me.