The past couple months have brought a lot of change. Good change. I have realized it is oh-so-easy to get distracted or sidetracked especially when it comes to marketing and social media.

I have heard over and over again about how being a wedding photographer, you are only actually “taking photos” 5% of the time. Craziness. But very true. I didn’t believe it. Anyways, going full time I have learned a lot in how to harness and use time wisely… especially since it seems like there is lots of it in the “off season”.

Here are a few things that help me to be productive, stay motivated, and challenge myself.

1. Plug in. Have a playlist of easy listening music. I created a new one with music I don’t know the lyrics too… just peaceful alternative stuff but some upbeat. Haha why?? Well, if I had a playlist of my favorite songs I would constantly be changing the song because I just heard it on the radio… OR I will sing along. Without realizing or noticing it. Trust me… no one wants to hear that. =P

2. Plan your day. Create a “to do” list and then make a schedule.

3. Be active. Get exercise and fresh air. Yes, these winter months are definitely dark and dreary so it is hard to find motivation. Let me tell ya. I am so much more productive after I take a break to stretch my legs and be healthy. Natural energy high people. Go for a run.

4. Change the scenery. Hit up a local Starbucks or coffee shop. Even drive an extra 10 minutes that a quiet one that you know you won’t bump into anyone.  PS. Ones with the big table are the BEST. :)

5. Have “work dates” with someone who is busier than you. There is something about working beside someone and knowing that they see if you check your facebook, or are constantly on your phone. Not that they will judge you, but it gives sort of an unspoken accountability or motivation that they will see your work habits (or lack thereof ;)). It is also a great way to network and connect with other photographers!

6. You may not “work” well with everyone… and that is ok! Skip the laptop and schedule a time to just grab coffee.

7. Don’t connect to the Internet. Grab your laptop instead of your desktop computer and turn the wi-fi off. Even better: go to a coffee shop with no wifi!

8. Take the time to write out your goals and business plan for the year (2 years, 5 years, etc). If you have an action plan and target to work towards, it will help you be a lot more FOCUSSED because this is WHAT YOU WANT. It is your goal and all those little tasks or action steps will help get you there.

9. Learn. You know those things you wanted to improve on?? Yup. Now is the time! Find books, watch videos, find tutorials, or ask for help! There is always room for improvement and now is a great time to practice, or try that new lighting technique.   

10. Connect. Build relationships. Network. Listen. There is so much to learn… and so many people to learn from. Take the time to listen and let someone know that you genuinely care about THEM.