Life throws many challenges at you – kids, spouse, housework, bills, and work and on and on. With so many things occupying your time, your brain might have a hard time organizing everything that needs doing – this goes double for us freelancers.
When I look at ways to manage ideas or come up with ideas for building content for copywriting or marketing clients, I usually stick with a few favorites, but have others I am testing out to better help manage the chaos.
Here are some ways I manage and create without pulling out too many hairs:
- Editorial Calendar – Since my main business is writing, I need to have a way to manage things like blog posts, articles, podcast scripts and other content. I also like to add spots in the calendar for SEO key phrases I will use in the content. Right now I am using a spreadsheet for my editorial calendar.
- Mind Mapping – I know some use them and some don’t, but I, being a visual person, this method works great. I use mind maps for things like generating new ideas for my copywriting services, SEO strategies and social media marketing. I even use them for planning out decisions for my business.If you want to try mind mapping, a pen and paper work well or you could use software. I use a combination of pen, paper and programs like FreeMind and XMind.
- Evernote – This little gem has given me many ways to capture and create ideas for my business. With interfaces for your computer and phone, there is no place you couldn’t use Evernote. Check out more information about how this program could help you at the Evernote website.
- Pen and Paper – Yep, sometimes the most basic tools are the most effective. I like to keep a notebook and pen with me everywhere I go – around and away from the house. Without my Moleskine, I am not sure what I would do.
- Video and Audio – When I am not creating videos and podcasts for my business, I like to use my phone and computer for taking notes, creating ideas and reminding myself of my task list. Give it a try to see how hearing your own voice will kick-start your tasks.
- Digital Documents – Ok, these are no brainers. I use lots of spreadsheets, presentations and documents to create ideas, document client needs and write out content – I am using one now to write this post.
- Email – Yep. You see that right; I use email for so many things including organization as well as communications. As much as I use social networks for communicating with clients, I still rely heavily on my email. Sad, I know, but that’s just the way I am – old habits are hard to break.
- Whiteboard – When I want to have information standing in front of me, I put it on my whiteboard. Again, it’s old school, but don’t fix what’s not broken, right?
I know there are other ways to organize the mental chaos, but these are just some of my favorites. I still have a very long way in my journey of becoming organized, but I am trying. I hope some of these ideas will help you organize the chaos in your world as well.
What tools do you use to manage your mental chaos?
Photo credit: ktylerconk
Related posts:
