NeedleCraft Plus/needlecraftplusvolume1.iso/misc/22-tips/22-tips.txt

Text File | 1997-01-06 | 6KB | 104 lines

From: [e-mail]


      22 Tips For Getting More Done   by Frances Grimble

If you're like most needleworkers, you have more ideas than time.  You
may have several partially completed projects - some of which haven't
been touched in months  and materials for more you haven't started.  This
is a positive sign because it means you're a creative, active person.
But an overabundance of projects can become frustrating if you feel you
"never get anything done."  It may never be possible to do everything.
But you can do more if you rethink your schedule and working methods.
Here are some techniques that have worked for me.

1. _Prioritize_your_projects_.  Generally, it's best to work on one
   project at a time.  List partially completed projects in their
   order of importance to you.  Then list future ones for which you've
   planned and bought materials.
2. _Analyze_your_feelings_about_put-off_and_low-priority_projects_.
   If you haven't worked on them because of insufficient time or
   occasional boredom, keep them on the list.  You may have totally lost
   interest because your taste or lifestyle has changed or because the
   results were disappointing.  If so, admit it.  Save materials and
   partially completed, but usable sections for other projects.  Work
   through the rest of your projects in order of priority.
3. _Alternate_long/difficult_and_short/easy_projects_.  You'll feel you
   accomplish a lot while still being challenged.
4. _Buy_some_things_instead_of_making_them.  If you see a wonderful
   cross stitched item, but the process of duplicating it doesn't
   interest you, go ahead and buy it.
5. _Add_a_regular_cross_stitching_time_to_your_daily_schedule_.  Even if
   half an hour is all you can manage.  You may also want to set a daily
   goal. But make sure it's reasonable, so you will be able to
   congratulate yourself rather than bemoaning how little you've done.
6. _Take_advantage_of_inspiration.  At times you'll have so many ideas
   and feel so enthusiastic that the work practically does itself.  Try
   to rearrange  your schedule to take advantage of these inspired times.
7. _Don't_abandon_your_cross_stitching_time_for_your_job_or_household_
   _chores_.  Of course there are other things you're not getting done.
   You still deserve the  time  you  allotted  in your schedule.
8. _Ask_family_members_not_to_interrupt_you.  And let an answering
   machine take calls.
9. _Work_on_your_cross_stitch_projects_while_participating_in_other_,
   _low-energy_activities_.  For example, while you listen to the radio,
   watch television, talk with friends, or take the train to work.
10. _Work_mentally_on_your_cross_stitch_projects_during_other_low-energy_
    _activities_.  Schedule planning and problem solving for your daily
    shower, home chores, or commute.  Write down ideas while they're
    fresh.
11. _If_deadlines_motivate_you_,_set_one.  The deadline can be an
    occasion for wearing or using the finished item or a holiday for
    giving it away. Or it can be some significant point in your calendar-
    for example, before you leave for vacation.
12. _If_deadlines_pressure_ you_,_don't_set_one_.  If other activities
    require you to meet lots of deadlines, you may not want to set any
    for your cross stitch projects.  You can compromise by setting a
    deadline, but make sure it's so far away you can hardly fail to meet
    it.
13. _Never_stop_work_completely_.  Travel or other activities may
    temporarily disrupt your schedule.  Take your project along.  Even if
    you get only a little done, you won't lose touch with it.
14. _Organize_a_convenient_,_comfortable_work_space_.  You should have
    good-if possible, natural-light.  Heating and air-conditioning (or
    fresh air) should be available.  Seats and tables should be the
    correct height.  Place frequently used tools in easy reach.  And
    decorate the room so you enjoy being there.
15. _Leave_out_tools_and_materials_.  Why spend precious time cleaning
    after each session?  And if the project is handy, you may be
    encouraged to pick it up.  However, fibers should be protected from
    light, spills, and pets - perhaps by throwing an old sheet on top.
16. _Get_the_most_efficient_equipment_.  Not all the tools advertised
    save time or help you do better work.  But some will.
I7. _If_you_often_mislay_a_tool_,_buy_two_.  If you're absorbed in your
    work, you may forget where you laid down small tools such as
    scissors. Keep a spare and look for the other one later.
18. _Learn_the_most_efficient_techniques_.  Keep learning new techniques
    from books, magazines, classes, and experimentation.  But use only
    the ones you really like.  Don't sacrifice handwork that gives you
    pleasure just to complete projects fast.
19. _When_buying_supplies_,_don't_spend_any_more_time_than_necessary_.
    Yes, it is necessary -and fun- to shop for ideal materials before
    starting a project.  But make sure to get them all-and a little extra
    of everything.  Buy supplies you need regularly in bulk.  Send for
    and save mail-order catalogues.  They may list hard-to-find supplies
    and cut down on errand running.
20. _Store_supplies_in_a_closet_or_chest_.  This not only keeps your work
    space clear, it avoids light and insect damage.  Label boxes on the
    outside so you don't waste time hunting through them.
21. _Get_support_from_others_.  Support groups, sewing circles and
    classes provide encouragement, feedback, and information.  And try
    teaching your friends and family, so they'll share your interests.
22. _Get_support_from_yourself_.  Never put yourself down for not being
    perfect- who is?  Congratulate yourself each time you finish a step
    or the day's work, learn a new technique, or have a clever idea.
    Visualize the finished project.  And enjoy it when it is finished.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Frances Grimble has been a professional writer and
editor for ten years and has been involved in sewing and various fiber
arts for sixteen.  She recently finished a book titled _After_a_Fashion_:
_How_to_Reproduce_,_Restore_,_and_Wear_Vintage_Styles_.  For publication
information, send a SASE to:  Frances Grimble, 20 Meadowbrook Drive, San
Francisco, CA  94132