What we can learn from Warner Bros' Road Runner…
This morning I was talking with my mastermind group and discussing how I need to find ways to outsource some of my work so I can continue to grow my business and still have a life. I know this is an issue facing many artists, as we have talked about it, emailed about it, belabored about it… but rest assured this is a challenge that faces people in all walks of life, not just artists!
So I tweeted a link to a Tazmanian Devil clip and said, “this is why I need help!“ Although he busts through anything that stands in his way (visualize the trees, boulders and mountains as obstacles in your business) he is spinning in circles and doesn’t really seem to have much of a plan! I don’t want to be the proverbial “bull in a China shop” but aspire to flow with more focus, direction and harmony.
So I got to thinking… maybe the Road Runner is a better analogy. He seems happy (I love what I do!) is always moving at top speed (if he owned a business he’d be implementing great ideas quickly – as I like to do) and moves in a straight line (better than circles – let’s just hope he knows where he wants to go.)
So what does Wil. E. Coyote represent? In this scenario, he represents the Road Runner’s fears – the perceived challenges, obstacles and things that hold him back. By the end of the clip when the Coyote finally catches the Road Runner, he is too small to eat him. The Road Runner finally realized that it’s ok to stop running, that what he fears most only has the power he gives those fears and that in reality, he’s in charge.
My point? Don’t spin in circles without a plan. Don’t let your fears, worries and concerns make you believe you have to work at hyper-speed at all times. Become the big, empowered Road Runner and know that you can chart a course and do whatever you want with your life and business. You are in charge!
Here’s to your creative success!
– Tara
P.S. If you need help charting your course and you are an artist or creative professional, check out my newly revised Goal Wheel for Artists. $10 off thru January 1st with code “ARTGOALS”
Cool Software Discoveries 2009: Daylite Business Productivity Software for Mac
If you own a Mac and run a business, you have to look at this software. I insist.
I have a great memory (ask anyone who wishes it weren’t quite as good!) and for a while, I was able to keep track of clients, business potential, who I showed art to, etc. Or I used a notebook and wrote things down, sticky note reminders, etc. But as my business grew, it got harder. I felt like I was losing track of information and missing opportunities because my systems weren’t good enough. Let’s not even talk about how many Mailbox folders I had created in MacMail – but then I had to manually move emails sent and received and sometimes it just didn’t happen.
This is another great Twitter find. When I started searching for an integrated program to keep me on track that would grow with my business, I used Google to search and Twitter to see what others were using. A few suggested Daylite.
Then @mbookspan, a certified Daylite consultant, tweeted me, offering to chat and see if Daylite would be what I needed. Well we decided it would work and I made a great decision: I bought the software from Matthew and hired him for a 2 hour “boot camp” of sorts. We talked through the computer, he took control of my mouse from 2 states away and got me all set up! I told him what I wanted to do, he showed me how. Talk about shortening your learning curve! With no compensation for this glowing recommendation, I would recommend anyone considering this software talk to Matthew.
His website: www.mbookspan.com
or find him on Twitter: @mbookspan
Here’s a little video demo of what it is and why I like it…
Here’s to your creative success!
– Tara
disclosure: I have no affiliation with Matthew Bookspan or Daylite software other than purchasing their products and services and being thankful I did each and every day!
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