Activity vs Productivity

Being self employed means understanding the difference between busy work vs productive work.

A young photographer recently asked me how to structure his time so that he actually gets things accomplished.  A lot of time can easily be wasted on social media outlets, but if you plan your time and make a schedule you will get more done each day.  Planning your time today means planning how much of your day is allotted for social media because Facebook and other outlets are important but they must be managed.

Having a plan is vital for success in any field and for the self-employed photographer knowing how to work your plan is critical to your success and longevity as a photographer.  Spend the time to work out your strategy and write it down.  I like keeping a tangible notebook for this vs putting it on my computer, but I'm a bit old school with that approach.  Do whatever works best for you.  Once you have your strategy set the next step is to make a calendar scheduling the time you will spend working on your goals.  For example, my calendar shows how much time I am devoting to my commercial work efforts along with my personal projects.  My calendar and schedule are the only way I can find time for my personal projects.  They must be scheduled, or work takes over and you never get the book completed or get the exhibit you've always wanted up.  Schedule your time each week in a realistic manner and do your best to stick to it.  Life happens and you will fall off at times, but don't beat yourself up about it.  Before you know it you will be living your dream and be able to look back and see your progress.

The secret is to get to work now and not put it off until later, because later usually never comes.  Stop now and get to work in making your future.

For more information in becoming successful as a photographer check out the videos available in the Gallery Store.

Always Dream Big