Four Simple Tweaks to Make 2019 Your Best Year Yet
Ah, the old resolution game. But for real, why not use the calendar turn to make some simple tweaks to help your business be even better in 2019? A few quick adjustments may be just what you need to have your best year yet. Here are four.
(Re)connect With Vendors
Who do you want to work with this year? A new year is a great time to focus on reconnecting with the vendors who have helped you gain momentum in the past. A simple Happy New Year's card, a mini-album of images that represent their work, or a simple coffee date is a great thing to do all year long. Get yourself connected and in front of the people who you want to be associated with. And don't stop now. It's a great thing to do all year long.
These relationships tend to compound over time. A vendor who remembers you sent a thoughtful note or set aside time for coffee is far more likely to think of you the next time a referral comes up.
Take Some Risks
Playing it safe is last year's game. This is the year to take risks, try something new, and stop being afraid to fail. What have you been wanting to try? Try it. Let the excitement motivate you and get you outside of your comfort zone. Put your goals out into the universe and get started on making them happen.
The work you are proudest of a year from now is rarely the safe choice you almost made. It is usually the one that felt slightly uncomfortable to attempt in the first place.
Find Some Grace
Spoiler alert: there will always be someone better, cooler, faster, or pricier than you. Let it go. The only person that you need to compete with in 2019 is the 2018 version of yourself. Say NO to projects that don't inspire you and say YES to projects that have you shaking in your boots. Remember when you scheduled your first shoot? Terrifying, right? Well, look at you now. You've got this. Stop standing in your own way.
Comparison is a losing game because there will always be someone further along. Progress against your own past self is the only measurement that actually reflects your growth.
Get Organized
Enough with the madness. Figure out your weaknesses and make a list of solutions for each one. Not strong in Photoshop? Find a class to take. Are your books a mess? Hire an accountant. Need help with your workflows? Find a resource that will make you strong in your weakest areas (Iris Works hint, hint). Make 2019 the year that you set yourself up to succeed.
Most of the disorganization photographers deal with comes down to a handful of repeat offenders, communication, contracts, invoicing, and scheduling. Tackling even one of these with the right system can free up a surprising amount of mental space for the rest of the year.
Tell us your plan. What is on your radar for 2019? Post in the comments so that we can all make each other better.
Tell us your plan. What is on your radar for 2019? Post in the comments so that we can all make each other better.
Ready to make your business better? Let us help. A FREE TRIAL of Iris Works is waiting for you. Click here to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Iris Works help me get organized if my workflows feel disorganized
Iris Works allows you to build and automate workflows for booked sessions, so reminders, contracts, and invoices go out consistently without you having to manage each step manually.
Can Iris Works help me stay on top of client communication throughout the year?
Yes. Iris Works centralizes client details and communication in one place, making it easier to stay consistent with follow-ups and reminders as your business grows busier throughout the year.
Does Iris Works help with the financial side of my business, like invoicing?
Yes. Iris Works allows you to send invoices directly tied to client bookings, and it integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks Online to help keep your finances organized.
Can Iris Works help me set up new systems if I'm starting the year with disorganized workflows?
Yes. Iris Works includes template workflows to help you get started, so you are not building your entire system completely from scratch.
How can Iris Works support the goal of taking on new types of projects this year?
By automating repetitive administrative tasks like contracts, invoicing, and reminders, Iris Works frees up time that can be redirected toward trying new types of sessions or creative projects you have been wanting to pursue.
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