Grade Expectations

Posted: June 28, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Big Picture | Tags: , , , , , | Leave a comment »


I’m a big believer in setting specific goals. I believe the universe provides, but we have to do the math. Every day I see miracles – real miracles – happen in response to this specificity.  But sometimes we miss the goal and lose energy in the ensuing disappointment and self-doubt.

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Hot Potato

Posted: June 26, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Business | Tags: , , , | Leave a comment »
Whew! Now that’s delivered, you can recover from the big crunch until your client gets back to you with revisions (or so goes the game of Hot Potato in a deadline-driven business). Yet waiting passively for the next stage in a project delays progress payments, crowds future projects in your production line, and leaves an unprofessional impression. Read the rest of this entry »

My Virtual Admin

Posted: June 21, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Business | Tags: , , , , , | Leave a comment »

I recently downloaded the free tracker rescuetime.com to learn more about where I’m gaining and losing productivity.  Among other insights, I’ve more evidence of the inevitable:  It’s time to hire an assistant. Read the rest of this entry »

Yippee People Wanted

Posted: June 19, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Life | Tags: | 1 Comment »

I look for Yippee People. They’re the ones that whenever I see them, a little yip hops inside, because I know our time together is going to be worth a whoop!

The “I’m Having A Party” Alarm

Posted: June 14, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Business | Tags: , , | Leave a comment »

One of my interior design clients adds a surcharge to the project fee for any client who wants it all finished in time for an upcoming party.  He’s learned that rushing clients can create all sorts of problems that increase his risk for doing the job well. Read the rest of this entry »

Get On the Clock ASAP

Posted: June 12, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Business | Tags: , , | Leave a comment »

Many creative businesses succumb to the practice of preparing speculative proposals that give away time and ideas.  Get on the clock sooner in the creative process to make the most money for your time.  Read the rest of this entry »

From Yes-Man to “Yes, and…”

Posted: June 7, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Your Business | Tags: , , | 1 Comment »

When a client asks for a change in her order, the little Customer Service Rep within too often agrees without considering the impact of the change on a contract’s scope. But I have good news: you needn’t risk your profit to make a client happy. Read the rest of this entry »