Hello from Phoenix, Arizona!
I was here last week for my annual National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) Conference.
It was a busy, yet great experience. When I arrived here last Tuesday it was a shock to my body and mind to be in a dry and hot environment (the temperature was been between 103-108 degrees), but I slowly got used to it. My favorite part was the evening time… not too hot or cold, just right.
I learned many things about business productivity, clearing mental clutter, Client Style Preference from Cena Block, helping ADHD and OCD clients with Dr. Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D. from Harvard Medical School, Online Marketing from Rich Brooks, Going Paperless with Brooks Duncan, CMA, and much more.
Being able to reunite with colleagues to brainstorm ideas, catch up and relax is not only inspiring, but also a necessary endeavor.
(Lisa Montanaro, reunited with my high school friend Sarah Gabriele an organizer in Colorado, the Time Timer booth, downtown Art District, a teapot of mints, Leslie Josel & Deborah Cabral, an amazing gluten-free BLT from Chloe’s Corner.)
This year I realized there were 4 takeaways I wanted to share that works in life and in business as well.
Community – surrounding yourself with individuals that make you happy, who push you towards success, and support your ideas. For me being an entrepreneur can be isolated at times but having a community to socialize with is beneficial to my growth (and health).
Support – having a business accountability partner is key! Being able to brainstorm with someone keeps you focused and on task. I talk about my schedule, business tasks, personal responsibilities, and among other topics with my accountability partner. I know if I need help bouncing a idea, I can call on her to help talk it out before I make a decision.
Education – you are never done learning. Continue to keep up with your craft, engage with your mentors, and learn something new to service your clients and yourself.
Volunteer – As we say at NAPO-NY, Volunteers have more fun! When you volunteer your time, not only are you helping your community out, you are also gaining experience and friends.
PS – A few of us went to visit Taliesin West (Frank Lloyd Wright’s home in Scottsdale). Beautiful landscape.
