Onward and Upward

Another year. I'm getting ready to send out my last quarterly tax payment for 2009 and I cannot believe it went by so fast. It was a crazy year for my little business. I more than tripled my client base, and doubled my earnings from the previous year. I was also able to volunteer my design skills and meet some great people. But all of this rapid growth has caught up with me and I must pause to reflect on what's worked best and what I'm still struggling to accomplish.

Working independently has always been a goal of mine, but in practice I am finding it to be so much more complicated than just putting in the 9 to 5. I appreciate setting my own work hours (and days), and having some control over the clients and projects I choose. It's great to work from home, often in my pajamas. But what I wasn't prepared for (and am still struggling with) is that once I went to work for myself, I could no longer separate my business and personal life. Believe me, I've tried. I just need to find a system that works for me... one that doesn't include checking my email right before I go to bed.

I've always been one to benefit from structure, so this is the year that I get serious about allocating my time more efficiently. No more breaks from work to do the laundry or clean bathrooms. And no more client calls when I'm spending time with my daughter. Each is going to have their time (and place). I'm sure there will be some overlap. It's unavoidable. But my current system is a little too fluid, and prevents me from giving my full attention to any given task. I want higher quality interactions... and less distraction.

It's asking a lot. But I've never been one to ask any less of myself. So this year, I don't seek to take on a multitude of new clients, or even increase my earnings (though both would definitely be welcome). My goal is for balance and better relationships with those already in my life. And if any of you have any advice along the way, feel free to send it my way!

iPhone Apps for Designers

I cannot say this enough—I LOVE my iPhone. Back in June, I decided that it was absolutely necessary to have a business line, as my personal cell phone just wasn't cutting it—and I was getting sick of paying overage charges for long client calls. Then fate stepped in, Apple dropped their price on the 3G, and I had a phone that could field calls, check email, and entertain me on the occasional ferry ride into the city.


Flickr
A great place to upload your photos and to check out some really great images.

Photoshop.com Mobile
Edit and share your photos.

RunKeeper
While technically not a design application, I love this because it tracks my runs—pace, route and mileage... 'cause running brings me sanity (and gets me away from the computer)

Mint
Keep track of all of your finances in one place.

Skype
Make a call to anyone with an account... for free. Amazing.



myPANTONE
PANTONE color libraries on the go

Best Camera
Another way to edit/share your photos... this one with cool filters.

The Typography Manual
LOTS about type.

Palettes
The name kinda says it all.

Etsy Addict
Because that's what I am.