I sometimes find myself falling in the rut of thinking I'm Superwoman and can do it all. Regardless of a project, I tend to think that I don't need help (even when I do) and suffer through the painstakingly horrible task of trying to get everything done, and although I do, I could save myself a lot of trouble by just asking for help. I try to get my clients to see the light, especially from experience, that they can't do everything and that trying to tackle the small pieces before finishing the big picture. When looking at a puzzle of your dream business, project, goal, it can be very convincing to try to jump in head first, but take a breath, know your limits and learn that it's okay to take a break and recognize when something is too much for your plate.  

As we start the 4th quarter of the year, what are some things that you've learned that you're taking with you in growth? What are some things (or people) you plan on leaving behind? Why? I'm a fan of reflection, and I try to help my clients see the what as well as the why. When you're trying to grow your business/professional self, it can be hard to let things or people go that have been an integral part of your life. Even in my own business endeavors, I had to learn that everyone can't be on board when it's time to move forward, especially if these people are complacent. So take some time to reflect and reevaluate whatever it takes to make you better. 

As an entrepreneur, I know the road can be bumpy sometimes when it comes to maintaining your purpose. That is, justifying why you do what you do, especially if you have people in your life who are constantly asking why you won't just get a "real" job, or something to that effect. It can be exhausting, and sometimes you doubt yourself, your work, and your actions and why you don't just listen to them, maybe life would be easier, right? I'm guilty of it, but I'm on a constant path of realization, and understanding that what we do is not designed to be fulfilling or self satisfying to others, but to ourselves. While it may become tiresome to get the same question over and over, affirming to yourself that you enjoy the work that you do for YOU is the first step to removing that negative attitude from your atmosphere. This also brings about another train of thought that everyone isn't meant to understand your path. A lot of people, clients and non that I know, spend a lot of their time trying to validate their work with others, when they could be spending that time on their craft. Sometimes you need to take a step back and re-assess your processes and what factors you are allowing to influence your work. If there's no positive impact, work towards re-alignment, and bringing more strategic influences that can enhance your growth. 

Some days, I'm on fire, I can get a million and one things done, cross off my checklist and feel like I'm on top of the world. Some days, I don't feel like doing anything but laying in my bed and binge watching Supernatural (again), if that even. Motivation is such a tricky rabbit, coming and going whenever it pleases. When I talk to my clients, or other artist friends, one of the main questions or problems they bring up is staying motivated on their craft or product. While I'm not a motivational speaker or coach, I try to give them advice that I abide by because I know the road can be rough as an entrepreneur. Self affirmations and positive thoughts may seem like a corny, over used spiel, but they do work. Getting over that mid-day hump can be tricky, but when you think about what you're working towards, that magic can come back to you in ways you never imagined. And sometimes, it doesn't and you have a lull that you feel like you can't get out of, and that's okay too. But know that your work matters, and you matter, and sometimes if you can't get up and do something right them, it's okay to take a break. Reflect on your journey and appreciate the little things. 

We all know what time management is. We hear about it. see all these techniques that are supposed to make us better at it. but at its core, what is time management? Are you working to make your schedule fit too many things at once? Are you happy trying to balance out things that aren't really meaningful? Are you really stretching yourself too thin to begin with? When I talk about time management with my clients, a lot of times they come right out and say how busy they are, and how hectic it will be for us to fit meeting times into the schedule. What I've come to learn is that I need to reassess everything I was trying to spend time on and determine if it was worth it, or if I was just concerned about the face value of the situation. When I started breaking down the things I really wanted to do, versus those that did not hold much weight, or could be better communicated, I started managing my time better. Also, even though it sounds tedious, writing things down helps. Even if it's short hand, you'll save yourself some headaches by jotting down simple reminders or notes that are important. Once you develop that system, you'll stop focusing on how busy you are, and start enjoying the things your actually doing, realizing that there's more than enough time in a day. 

So, I've been extremely reflective lately and at first I couldn't figure out why, then I realized that the first half of the year is coming to a close. As I sat back and thought about the business interactions I've had over these last 6 months, so many after thoughts came rushing back, like one of those moments where you think of everything you wanted to say after an argument. When interacting with my clients, I try to be transparent as the project allows, hoping that we come together to produce something that is satisfactory. Is that always the case? No. But I'm realizing that this non-meeting of the minds is okay. When I start off a business relationship, there are so many things that I want to impart onto my client, but I also have to remember that information overload exists and just because I process things quickly, does not mean that they will. So far this year, I've had some pretty interesting, eye opening (and scary) things happen when it comes to business, grants, and just overall operational success. I'm learning from these experiences but it also seems like things are moving very slow. From this, I thought I'd share what I've learned along the way based on client interactions...

​For start up non-profits eager to apply for grant funding:

1. While not all, many grants will seek to fund specific projects in line with the funder's mission, action points, pillars of change, etc. When submitting a project, make sure it is in line with your organization and with the grant expectations. Often times we want to reach for the moon, but end up biting off more than we can chew, especially with a small operating team.

2. Know your budget. You may think you can estimate the price of what's needed and fill in the gaps, but that is not a good idea. Start looking up what you'll need and price it out from the beginning. And make sure these supplies are relevant to the project. Do not try to fit in unnecessary items that may benefit the organization overall. Most grants funders will tell you what they do and do not fund before you even receive an application. Pay close attention to these guidelines.

3. Document. Document. Document. In my experience, grant funders usually don't tell you they're looking for evidence of your project by the time your final report is due, but hint, they are. And even if they aren't, visual proof will keep you on track when it's time to submit your report and talk about your progress. Also, keep track of your receipts. This should go without saying but you never know what could happen. Make copies, do whatever is necessary but make sure you know where they are.

There are many options available when it comes to knocking down grant funding, you have the diy option, as well as trained professionals out there willing to assist (for the right price). Don't be afraid to ask people in your network questions, review your idea, or just bounce around and brainstorm.

I wish you all the best on you business journey,

Happy trails.