Some days my download folder looks like this (especially after a BIG sale at my favorite designer's store):
You might think because I teach digital asset organization, my library is perfect. Not so. ☺ Just like everyone else my life gets busy, I take on projects and I let things slide.
However, just because I slide doesn’t mean I don’t have a way back to organized. Staying organized is a little like laundry. Just because you finish doesn't mean there won't be more piling up tomorrow.
We live in the digital age. There’s always going to be something else to download - photos from friends, inspiration, freebies, new kits and programs. And that’s just my download folder - how about yours?
I have a lot of tools in my tool box that I use to get things back on track and I share them more in depth in my classes and newsletter. Today I’m going to share a sampling of one of my favorites. It’s called
So many write me to say, “I don’t have the time...” With The Power of 20 I'd say you have more than you realize.
Here are the basic guidelines:
- Set aside 20 minutes
- Close your internet browser (unless required for your task - in that case stay locked to one page).
- Shut down your email.
- Turn off your phone.
- Shut down all social network applications.
Work toward your goal. It may feel like you don’t accomplish much, but over time these little things add up and before you know it, you’ve built your own personal haystack one bale at a time.
Try it. Come back and share what you accomplish. Looking for more tips and tools? Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter here.
Hi I'm new to your blog having found it thru your guest post yesterday.. I read this post this morning and decided to give your 20 minute theory a try and WOW! I emptied half my download folder.. feeling very organized and in control now :-) I figure if I do it again tomorrow morning it will be cleaned up... hasn't been empy in months! Thanks so much for the ideas and inspiration.
Posted by: DonnaNJ | 11 August 2011 at 07:43 AM
So glad you found the blog and it has been helpful. Hope you have a wonderful weekend.:)
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 11 August 2011 at 07:46 AM
This is a great idea Kayla - can't wait to see more of what you've got up your sleeve with regards to getting things done.
Posted by: suzy R | 11 August 2011 at 10:36 AM
Thanks Suzy!
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 11 August 2011 at 03:34 PM
Being retired now and having a bad back, my days are filled with little increments of busy-ness. It's work awhile, read awhile, check email, check FB, or cook something, whatever. At the end of the day it's a joy to sit back and think about all that was accomplished. If an extra pat on the back is needed, I'll make a list. Works great!
Must admit - the screen above showing your downloads - that looks impossible. Where to start?
Posted by: Marlene Lehman | 11 August 2011 at 04:34 PM
It was fun - I actually was able to clean things up in about an hour of focused work. And this was only about 1/4 of it! :)
I started with importing all the downloaded inspiration photos to Lightroom, then processed the kits and so on. It actually cleans up pretty quickly thanks to the wonders of technology! :)
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 11 August 2011 at 04:36 PM
It's work awhile, read awhile, check email, check FB, or cook something, whatever. At the end of the day it's a joy to sit back and think about all that was accomplished
Posted by: android developers | 12 August 2011 at 06:34 AM
Incredible! I'm so impressed. You are so encouraging. Thanks.
Posted by: Marlene Lehman | 12 August 2011 at 06:38 AM
Hey, what are you doing taking a picture of my downloads folder. rofl
Posted by: Jan_GodBlessAmerica | 15 August 2011 at 11:37 PM
lol - good to know Im not alone! :)
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 16 August 2011 at 12:26 AM
Thank you Marlene! :)
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 17 August 2011 at 08:02 PM
Great post, it really works!
Posted by: SWJenn | 08 September 2011 at 07:26 PM
I have been applying the power of 20 almost daily to my digital supplies, it feels great! Can't believe the progress I have made in cleaning house with supplies.
Posted by: Marty Ward | 22 September 2011 at 08:00 PM
Woot! Great job Marty - so glad to hear how things are going! :)
Posted by: Kayla Lamoreaux | 22 September 2011 at 08:52 PM