How to Organize Your Time When You Work For Yourself

As many of you may know, who follow me on Instagram, I recently became Full Time Blogger. If you want to know the whole back story head over to my IGTV. After working as a Physical Therapist for the past 9 years as well as a blogger for the past 8, I’ve decided to give full time blogging a go. Honestly, it wasn’t as much a decision as it was the inevitable. I like being a physical therapist. It pays well and I’m pretty good at it. But if I’m being completely honest with myself I love blogging. If I didn’t blog I wouldn’t know what to do with all the free time I had outside of working my 9-5. Blogging is what get’s me excited and what makes me feel so full I could burst. Even though I’ve felt this way since I started blogging in 2010, I never had the courage or faith to just pursue it. I was comfortable. I’d created a great routine and was still able to churn out content while working a 9-5.

It became second nature for me, living these two lives that were pretty separate. I was never the girl who liked wearing scrubs to work. It’s part of the reason why I started Fashion Steele NYC. I wanted to show that I had all these amazing clothes, even though chances are if you saw me on the street I’d be in scrubs, a lab coat or frumpy casual wear. I was thankful and grateful for my 9-5. It gave me a great sense of financial security which was something I craved coming from a poor upbringing. Due to this series of fortunate events, I am pursuing my dream of blogging full time (for the second time) and now I get to wear what I really want to work thanks to Ann Taylor! I’ve always been a fan of Ann Taylor and their amazing business wear! Ann Taylor clothing makes me feel powerful and confident. Every job I’ve ever gotten, I’ve worn my lucky Ann Taylor emerald green button up top to the interview. The New November Fall Collection has just hit the floors and I got to rock a few of my favorite pieces while working through a day as a Full Time Blogger. I’m also sharing a few tips on organizing your time when working for yourself. 

Photography by Rose Lazard || Edited by Monroe Steele

LOOK 1: Ann Taylor Blouson Sleeve Sweater Dress | Ann Taylor Olena Suede Bootie | Ann Taylor Poncho Coat

LOOK 2: Ann Taylor Jewel Neck Coat | Ann Taylor Pearlized Trim Pencil Skirt | Snakeskin Boots | Staud Bag

LOOK 3: Ann Taylor Romantic Flower Bow Blouse & Romantic Flower Flounce Skirt | Ann Taylor Coat

SHOP THE LOOKS

Set a Schedule & Stick To It

I learned this the hard way. In order to stay on top of my ever growing to-do list, having a set schedule has helped me to create some order where there would otherwise be chaos. I find that creating a weekly schedule works best for me. I have specific days for creating content whether that be writing blog posts, shooting videos or photos. As well as specific days for publishing content (posting blog posts every Monday, Thursday and now Saturdays!!!). I also have set times for recording, editing and publishing my Instastories daily. Having this schedule really helps to decrease my anxiety. I utilize my phone timer and a handwritten calendar to stay on top of my tasks, events and commitments. Hey, even Instagram let’s you know how much time you spend on it a day. Set a limit for yourself and stick to it. 

Don’t Forget to Eat

It’s very easy when work for yourself, especially in the creative field, to be so engrossed in the work that you forget to eat. I actually had to start setting a timer for myself for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There have been days when I’d completely neglect to nourish myself and would wonder why I have a headache. Using the timer on my phone I set aside 30 minutes for both breakfast and lunch. For those 30 minutes I don’t do any work and give myself a break. I love Blue Apron too. I receive 3 meals (for two people) twice a month and it cuts down on grocery shopping and food waste. 

Set Aside Time for Yourself

Just like I set aside time for eating, I set aside time for just me. Usually I fill that time with reading a magazine or watching my favorite shows, going out dancing or hanging with friends. Working for yourself really can turn into working 11-14 hour days 7 days a week. I’m still figuring out this new rhythm but I know I still need to take care of me. Doing things that bring me joy often spur creativity and content ideas. You can even set aside 1 hour a day to walk away from work and do something you enjoy.

Set Goals

I like setting daily, weekly goals in order to meet a major monthly goal. I find that 2 goals maximum works better for me to keep my anxiety to a minimum. Currently, my goal for the month of November in to finish up Fashion Steele Magazine. I even have weekly goals to meet in order to make sure I accomplish my goal for November. I set aside time weekly to exclusively work on Fashion Steele Magazine. I also set small daily goals on an erasable bulletin board and I take great pleasure in crossing things off that list. 

Get Some Fresh Air and Exercise

Entrepreneurs can easily work all day and night because our work is our passion. It’s fun and it doesn’t feel like work! But getting out and doing some physical activity only helps to keep our bodies and minds right to continue doing what we love. I now work from home and sometimes wont leave for the house for days. I’ve started visiting local cafes to do a little work just to be around people and get some fresh air. I also do my 45 minute workout every other day as part of my “time for myself” during the week. 

What are some things you do to stay organized?

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xx

Monroe