Over the last week, something amazing happened. Because of this amazing thing, I went to a hot yoga class (not once, but twice) after not working out in over a year. I also got my hair cut, which I also haven’t done in over a year.
I know I have long hair, but that’s still a stinking long time to go without a haircut. It’s not that I didn’t want to work out or take care of myself, I just haven’t been able to find the time to do so in a very long time.
In fact, I feel as though I’ve been able to BREATHE for the first time in a very, very long time. Did I have fewer clients over the last week? Heck, no. I did three online design consultations yesterday alone, but I was still able to make it to a yoga class last night.
Wanna know my secret? I hired the most amazing assistant who is sorting my email for me and handling all my scheduling. Because that was taking me a ridiculous amount of time – time out of every day of the week, including the weekend. Sometimes three hours a day to just return emails and schedule clients.
After helping me establish a better system of organizing my client information and actually getting my schedule on the computer (rather than the old-school planner that never left my hot little hands), this amazing woman has relieved me of a burden that kept me from doing the little things I wanted to do, like taking care of myself and even enjoying a good, deep breath!
Her name is Allison. She is a BLESSING, and I am very thankful. You’ll love her, and she will be happy to schedule your next color, design, or staging consultation if you message her at allison@thedecorologist. But I just might be doing yoga when you send that email.
Make sure to sign up for my free emails, look for me on Facebook, and follow me on Pinterest and Twitter. Oh, and you might want to check out my new Color Workshop Video Series to get the skinny on choosing the right paint colors and putting them in the right place!
Yay for Allison! But if you’re not stressed and in desperate need of a new assistant, what will you and I talk about the next time we meet for coffee? 🙂
I’m sure we’ll come up with something!
I love this! I just had my first haircut in six months! Your blog does a great deal to keep me inspired during my remodeling project…thank you.
Bravo! So many people deny others the opportunity to be helpful when in reality it then makes two people feel great!
this is sooo true. there is a danger of being seen as a spoiled something, where as in fact – even if you have some one help you for a “little” job – it makes both parties happy! If in need of help, and not asking for it because it might ruin your image as the perfect i.e. house wife – thats false modesty!
Yes! Of course, you say these things, but then look like super woman to the rest of us. 🙂 I just got a haircut last week after a year, as well. I, too, have long hair – no excuse. I often trade necessities (like a hot shower) for dishes, children, or diy projects. I’m trying, too. Good luck!
Haha, I’m no super woman – but I always wanted to be like Lynda Carter from Wonder Woman . . .
Good for you! Long overdue, I’m sure! Creativity, business and growth, without sanity is just plain nuts!
We all need balance, right? Really working on that concept 🙂
Way to go, Kristie! WAY TO GO! I am so sxcited for you, and I say this because my husband just hired 2 half time assistants at the end of the summer, each to tackle different areas of his business. And yes, one for the scheduling and emails! The difference this has made is incredible – and that’s just coming from me! He’s getting more sleep, more exercise, and can now take time to work ‘on’ his business instead of drowning working ‘in’ his business! And like you, he’s busier than ever but is managing the busy in a much healthier way! Congratulations!!!
Working “on” the business is something I never have planned into my schedule – so I do it (and yes, i do it) at the sacrifice of some pretty important things like family time, sleeping, and eating! Trying to finally schedule working on the business in addition to working in my business, rather than the way I’ve been doing it!
I love the verse from James! Thank you for your gift if sharing so much with others!!!! Glad you enjoyed a workout!!!!
Thank you, Sylvia!
YES! Kristie, delegating–just like Moses was instructed to do…. Wisdom in that !!
Sometimes when we creative types are forced to do the administrative tasks overmuch, it just knocks the living daylights out of us. Even pastors have helpers so they can study & counsel—-just what you’ll have more time for now. Didn’t get a chance to comment on your post about all the awards, but it seems you are on the cusp here –a turning point of sorts. Perfect time for Allison to come alongside.
So glad for you. OK, how about a photo of your new haircut?
Paula,
Well, I’m no Moses, but it was hire some help or have a breakdown! So I think I made the right choice 🙂 Allison said to me last week, “I don’t know how you ever got around to actually doing consultations with all the time you were spending on email and scheduling!” Maybe I’ll get somebody to snap a pic of my haircut 🙂
Looks like you got an answer to prayer!
I wanted that job. My thought has been since I never made it to be a designer (I am soneone’s personal assistant but in a diffrent profession) that I should at least be a personal assistant to a designer. Maybe someday. A great assistant will work wonders for you. So glad you found one.
My favorite scripture Phil. 4:13 I can do all things in Christ Jesus whom strengtheneths me
Great post! I loved all the images and will probably copy those to my computer too! I’m the office manager/accounts payable-receivable/appointment scheduler/tax prep/personal assistant, etc. etc. for both my husband’s home-based business and mine. Some days are quiet and I have all the time in the world to do anything but ‘office work”. Some days I have no time to get dressed or eat breakfast! Life’s an ever-changing whirlwind when you’re self employed. We like it 🙂 OK…I admit, those crazy days where I’m still in jammies at 3 PM is because I’m not an early riser and the phone has started ringing before I even open my eyes some days! Haha! If I would ‘get up and go to work’ like I used to when I worked away from home, things would be different. On the other hand, working in jammies is sort of a perk for me 🙂 But when my own business grows beyond what I can do in-office AND keep my own projects going, we’ll be looking for an assistant too 🙂
I just now read the blog!!! What a surprise. I am sitting here crying after reading this. I feel blessed to work for you and I am so glad I am making your life easier. Thank you so much for this….it made my day!
xoxo 🙂
Glad you got to hot yoga. It is the best thing ever especially for busy people!!
I love your posts. Thanks for all the great info.
I had the pleasure of booking my online consultation with Allison last week and she was fantastic! She returned e-mails within an hour- even on Saturday. Great decision hiring her!