First Word

People always ask me how I get so much accomplished in a day. I have a very specific routine. Yes, it's boring and regimented but it works. One of the first steps you can take in any routine and to start any work day is to get organized. I call this the "first-things-first" model. Of course in my office that requires a cup of coffee ;) first; but the first step to any day is to get organized. Step no. #1 always involves getting the information downloaded for each of the projects from my email. Each client's email (if it contains documents) gets filed in the proper folder -- that way nothing gets forgotten or downloaded in some forgotten segment of the computer. I can't say what your first steps should be, but I always advise entrepreneurs and the self-employed to get a system of organization in place and work it. Routines might take some spontaneity out of the day, but they guarantee your step no. #2 happens, too: make goals. Routines and goals set the pace for th...

Simplicity -- ah, sweet simplicity ... I'm always saying it's the simple things. I'm a simple girl and simple things bring a smile to my face. This tree outside of my office window regales me with its full bloom. All the trees are snow white right now, and the very sight makes me smile. I bought a bouquet of spring flowers for my coffee table. They made me so happy! The flowers were bright and purple fun. I can sit in my sweet home and enjoy its beauty. My home is small and lovely -- and decorated in a comfortable feel -- that makes me happy. I can sit on the sofa and talk for hours with my fiance Kirk Donnelly -- and that makes me really happy, too. Last night, a friend of mine asked me to dinner, and Kirk and I went and gave her counsel on her decision to divorce. I was leaning quietly against my man, and I thought how far I've come. Last year at this time, I had just walked away from a 20-year marriage. Life looked rather bleak. I was tired and sad. A full year lat...