I was recently asked which apps I use for organization & staying on top of everything. Over time, I've tried so many apps I can't even keep track of them all. Every time I'd hear of a new one, I'd try it out, switch stuff over to it, etc. It started to cause more harm than good. Organizing quickly became disorganizing & just led to more stress. The worst, right?
I found that while yes, I want to be up to date on new products/ideas, I also need to think about what's most effective for ME. What might work best for someone else might be totally off base for me. We've all had the Trello vs. MeisterTask or even simpler, Mac vs. PC debate, right? I know I have...
I still check out new apps here & there, but I've become extremely content with the basics: Trello, Google Calendar/Drive & Apple Reminders/Notes. I've noticed this pressure to be the most organized, efficient, high tech guru with beautiful blog posts on the latest & greatest on how to be the most organized. The reality: my to-do list is not supposed to look pretty or be for someone else - it's purpose is for me to effectively get my work done. That's it. If it works, it works. But hey, if trying all the latest apps & switching regularly for you & intuitively feels right - go for it! It's YOURS. :)
It took me awhile to step back & disengage from that pressure oriented, competitive, patriarchal dialogue on how to LOOK the best & SEEM the most efficient. Now, I approach my organization, creative pursuits & all business tactics with an intuitive, empathetic approach. Just cutting out the nonsense has made things soooo much less stressful! Contrary to what we've been taught, stress is NOT a status symbol.
What have been your experiences with this idea of your ego dictating [or not] the way you organize?
I agree Bri..... I’ve done the multi-task, jack of all trades, build the resume with schools, jobs, etc, and cram in as much as I can mode. It’s exhausting. Now my goals are to get rid of the superfluous, unnecessary, and transient things in my life and pare down to the essentials as best I can. Spending time in my studio is the most important goal and limiting social media that is positive in its approach to one or two that work for me is key. BTW I commend you for your totally professional management of the forum last night...... not an easy task but you are definitely up to it. I found all the participants to be informed and passionate about what they do. Talk soon!