Managing time can feel like a nearly impossible hurdle. There are lots of books and resources on this topic — most sitting on well-intentioned and very busy readers’ bookshelves waiting to be read. We recently had a few Virtual Labs sessions on the topic and we have summarized the highlights below.
Before you start, take some time to think about why time management is so challenging. You may think that it should be an easy concept to master, but it’s important to understand why you’re having difficulty managing your time in order to address those challenges. Most of us like to focus on the easy tasks so we can feel like we are crossing things off our to-do lists. You may find yourself doing the things that have been requested by others, time sensitive tasks and scheduled or planned activities. Phew! When that is all done, there is not much time for things like attending to your shop, fulfilling orders and all of the creating you want to do for the holidays.
So what to do? There are three key components to time management:
- Plan – What do I need to do? When do I need to do it?
- Manage – How do I set up a personal system to be most effective and efficient?
- Organize – What do I need to do to focus my work and decrease time wasters?
Planning. Start the planning process by setting goals. Make a detailed list of actionable tasks necessary to accomplish that goal. Rank what you will do in the order you plan to achieve it. Below is an example of a goal to reach out to blogs, and the steps necessary to achieve it.
Estimate the time it will take to do each task, remembering to keep in mind all of the other commitments you have. I like to take a calendar and map out the time so I can visually see how long everything will take. Remember to be realistic!
In the planning stages, some other ideas that will help save you time in the long run include:
- Pre-ordering Packaging Supplies – Including boxes, international custom forms, bubble wrap and gift wrapping. (Offering gift wrapping is a great service to offer to your buyers.)
- Create a Mailing List of Your Customers – For all of those updates you plan to send during the holidays. (Only for those people who have opted in, of course.)
- Plan Your Promotional Activities – Order your business cards, stickers, etc. ahead of time and outline other activities such as pitching to blogs or local press.
Manage. It is easy to get distracted during the day, particularly with phone calls, drop in visitors, emails and instant messaging potentially filling up a big portion of the day. Take some time to measure how much of your day you spend doing these activities and you may find there are some hours to take back.
Overall Tips:
- Prioritize Your To-do Lists - Accomplish all of the high priority items on your list and fill in with the other tasks as you have time.
- Focus on a Few Key Priorities – Decide up front what those are.
- Attack the Important and Unpleasant Tasks Early – This will not only give you a big sense of accomplishment for the day, it will also be a huge relief!
- Batch Processes – Think about answering emails every two hours, instead of every two minutes. This will save time and will keep you focused on the tasks at hand. You can also do this with instant messaging, making yourself available only at certain times of the day.
- Block Time to Do Your Work, Ideally Without Interruptions – This is easier said than done, but if you can do more continuous work, you will get more done in less time.
Organize. There are 3 key areas where you might want to start organizing.
1. Record Keeping: Detailed and accurate record keeping is critical to track your costs, inventory, orders, supply purchase, tracking numbers and payments. You don’t need anything fancy for record keeping. Some options:
Pen & Paper: You can use a notebook, journal or bound general ledger.
Spreadsheets: We have an inventory spreadsheet you can download for free. There are also Etsy sellers that have a wide variety of spreadsheets to fit different needs, including JMMFinance, serena, simple solutions, Lldesign and lots of others.
Accounting Software: For large volumes or more detailed inventory tracking, you might want to consider accounting software packages like Quickbooks or Peachtree.
2. Organizing your computer and email: The ideas below work well for both your desktop and your email inbox.
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Organized Desktop. A well organized desktop can help to alleviate many headaches during the holidays. Think about a filing system and what each file will be called. For instance, you might have a file for shipped orders, item descriptions and other components of your Etsy business.
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Keep all Etsy-related files together.
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Back up your work.
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Create templates. Save time when it comes to frequently sent emails and answers to questions.
3. Organize your Space. Some people are fortunate to have a dedicated place in their home for their craft-related work and fulfillment supplies. If you don’t have a dedicated place, you still need to create a system using baskets, closets or whatever space you have. Regardless of your space, thinking about where you will keep your supplies, finished items and shipping supplies, as well as creating a system to utilize those supplies will help keep stress at bay. Mary Ink‘s work space is a great example of well-functioning, organized place to work. Rachelaustin and many of the other sellers in the Quit Your Day Job series also have great pictures of their organized work spaces that you can peruse for inspiration.
Tips You Can Try Today
1. Identify non-productive habits that absorb your time (and creates ways to limit them).
2. Create a plan and use it. Set goals and plan ahead by breaking down goals into smaller projects with deadlines.
3. Prioritize “to-do” lists every night for the next day.
4. Do the #1 priority task first and stick with it until it is done.
5. Use a calendar to help stay organized.
6. Block time on your calendar to create, or specific goals you are having difficulty accomplishing.
7. Keep specific lists.
8. Manage distractions and control interruptions (e.g. batch email).
9. Learn how to say no politely. (Don’t take on more than you can do!)
10. Just do it!!! Even when you are feeling overwhelmed, starting on one piece of work is a great start.
If you have any ideas or input on how you stay organized, leave it in the comments below!
For more how-tos about selling, see the Seller Handbook.
105 comments
Sign in to add your owntinygreenapples says:
Great tips!
3 years ago
jennifergibbs says:
Thanks for the inspiration!
3 years ago
Cajajewelry says:
thanks for all the great suggestions!
3 years ago
NicoAndMooMoo says:
I'll print this article and give it to my boyfriend, I can't always be the organizer here! :-)))
3 years ago
zeng says:
love it!
3 years ago
OceanGrrl says:
Bethela, thanks lots and lots for the useful tips. I was feeling very overwhelmed by so many things, now I feel I can write up a plan and take action.
3 years ago
SnuggleHerd says:
Thanks, Bethela! Good tips! Blocking time for your work without interruptions is key (something I need to try harder at). My biggest tip: don't answer the phone when you are focused on your work - just let your voicemail get it and then check it later when you are at a good stopping point. That helps me a lot.
3 years ago
craftyfolk says:
good inspiration and info here! thank you
3 years ago
WingsDove says:
I agree with SnuggleHerd. The best way to get something done is to focus on your work, one thing at a time. Don't answer the telephone, don't check your email -- save that for set times. Lots of good advice in this article.
3 years ago
TheSingingBird says:
Thank you for these tips. I still have so much learning to do!
3 years ago
glassredefined says:
Thanks..look like good info. I'll be studying this one for a while!
3 years ago
JJMFinance says:
I really enjoyed this article! Thanks for including my shop in the spreadsheet links. One of my key methods to stay organized is to do lists. Sometimes I just put them on yellow sticky notes, while other times I make them electronically in spreadsheets.
3 years ago
missfruitfly says:
This is helpful, thank you for posting.
3 years ago
WiseEarthHerbs says:
I feel more organized already! Thanks for all the great tips.
3 years ago
allisajacobs says:
Thanks for these great tips...really got me focused! Now...off to go organize something.
3 years ago
craftycrew says:
Great tips! My crafting has taken over my dining room!
3 years ago
discodip says:
thanks for the great tips!
3 years ago
JeweLAWryStore says:
I seem to have lost my den to all my great finds lately. :) Thankfully I have a very patient husband - that, and I'm also getting ready to Afghanistan so he's pretty much letting me do whatever I want. :)
3 years ago
fibrevolution says:
This is great, thanks so much!
3 years ago
AtabbycatArts says:
Organized, ME???? Oh Heaven Forbid! My workbench looks like a bomb went off on it and then rabid drunk squirrels had an orgy. Actually a Great article, I need to read these Etsy blog thingys more often.
3 years ago
Alpacasfurless says:
Great Tips! We are always learning. Thank you.
3 years ago
CoffeeHouseSuds says:
Thank you for the info ;-) Very helpful.
3 years ago
Studio206 says:
Great article! I have two ideas to share. First, keep a dedicated space for each facet of your business. This will enable you to avoid setup an teardown time. I'm lucky enough to have the space to have a spot for my glasswork, a spot for soldering, for polishing, for beading, for photographing, computering (new word?), and for packing/shipping. The second idea is to assembly line your work as much as possible. Even though I may have an order for one pair of earrings, I will make three or four at once. It's doesn't take that much longer to take four pairs through all the steps than it does to take one (certainly not four times longer, anyway). When you're trying to fit in your artwork around a family and a day job, it's imperative to be organized. The time you spend setting up a system that works for you will pay you back exponentially.
3 years ago
nitabear92 says:
I am grateful for the tips. I am still a good student. I have lots to learn here. I know pictures are a start for me. Thank you for taking the time to teach us. Nita
3 years ago
Irbella says:
Great article! Having dedicated space is key. My husband bought me an awesome desk that holds everything in place for me. I now have two dedicated areas, my desk which holds all reference books, laptop, printer, etc. and in my bedroom I have a wall dedicated for all my supplies. It helps knowing I won't get displaced when its time for dinner! I make lists all the time and my first one for today was to read the etsy mail!! Judy
3 years ago
giftsforkids says:
Very Helpful! I love the idea of assigning an 'amount of time for each task'. With experience I should be able to predict with more accuracy how long things should take. Great article!
3 years ago
SewNook says:
Partner with a Virtual Assistant from TodaysAdmin.com. As you grow your Etsy shop, let the right professional help you with the administrative tasks of your business! www.TodaysAdmin.com
2 years ago
ThreeWishesStudio says:
This is my first holiday season selling on Etsy. Thanks so much for the excellent info!
2 years ago
treasuresfound says:
thanks. I have bazilllions of things to accomplish before the holidays! great tips for getting them all done and keeping your sanity!
2 years ago
brightlightaccess says:
place taled
2 years ago
brightlightaccess says:
This is my first time on a website after much pushing by friends and family...to show some respect for my own work. I appreciate the tips as I am still learning. Staying focused is very important...it's a struggle to not be distracted and to honor the work. Thank you. I'm nervous and excited to be doing something I only dreamed was possible!!
2 years ago
DecorNMore says:
Thanks for the great advice... gotta get organized!!! :)
2 years ago
Waterrose says:
Thanks for the reminder and to do list!
2 years ago
SorchaGillett says:
oh gosh I have so much to do! But can I say to anyone reading this that I have a blog aimed at promoting Etsy sellers, get in touch if your product fits the bill! http://dandeliondaydreamer.blogspot.com/
2 years ago
Vanessa says:
Gettin ready to hear those sleigh bell jingling!
2 years ago
polkadotsandblooms says:
Thank very much for sharing. I really, really need this. I am bit all over the place at the moment :-(
2 years ago
sakizome says:
This article is brilliant and so helpful. Thanks! The items in my shop are stored in organized transparent boxes and so are my packing materials. Makes it easy to reach for to fulfill an order.
2 years ago
modernbird says:
Wow! What a great article, thank you. ...printing...and implementing!! I have already begun organizing my work space and supplies (and keeping it tidy). :)
2 years ago
dahlilafound says:
Don't panic. Deep breathes. It will all get done. :-) dahlila xxoo
2 years ago
plumbcrazy says:
Wow! Great work! That was perfect summary of every productivity book I've read! :) Thanks!
2 years ago
birdinabox says:
I am saving this for future reference too, thanks for the helpful tips :)
2 years ago
littlemoandfriends says:
thank you:) I really needed this..it's been a little crazy here this season
2 years ago
idlehandsdesigns says:
Great read! Thanks so much! I have a tip on organizing to share ::) For each design I make a recipe card. This has been huge for my business! On each card I detail item code, supplier, measurements and cost etc. It helps so much with ordering supplies and recreating a design consistently. Hope everyone has a great night! Lyndsay www.idlehandsdesigns.com
2 years ago
MilkAndHoneyFibres says:
marking- great advice here!
2 years ago
VeronicaGasper says:
I started a mini notebook for design details but I like idlehandsdesign suggestion. I might give that a try. With limited space I'm still having an issue creating a specific shipping area as well but I like being reminded. Good to rehash these ideas and great tips from everyone. Thanks Veronica
2 years ago
1001Acessorios says:
Thank you for the great suggestions. Now it's time to try! Thanks 1001 Acessorios
2 years ago
BatBoSockieFactory says:
Great tips - need to practice tip no.9!
2 years ago
TexasHillCountryArt says:
Lie to yourself about when Christmas is: set a deadline to finish all of your personal Christmas shopping, cards and wrapping before the end of November. That way you are not double stressed through December.
2 years ago
nettesneedle says:
If I just follow your great tips maybe I won't be running in circles during the holidays! Thanks
2 years ago
PoeticPaintings says:
Thanks for all the great tips!
2 years ago
EclecticSol says:
I'm new to etsy and I have so much to learn. Thank you for the great tips.
2 years ago
cardinalhouse says:
Great tips--thanks! -Kat.
2 years ago
TheLeftBank says:
Thank you for the (very organized and easy to follow!) ideas!! Cheers--
2 years ago
sharonclancydesigns says:
Oh, thank you! I am always striving to be more organized. This helps.
2 years ago
WeCreate4U says:
We are so very new at this, so all the tips you have shared are very much appreciated. Thank you!
2 years ago
Gwendolynsdesign says:
Love elles callender tags. Faved the 2010 ones, now if I could only find place to work on my scrapbooks too... I need a bigger space.
2 years ago
LeBoutique says:
thank you for the awesome tips!
2 years ago
BGSStudio13 says:
I really need to focus on tips 2 & 3!!! Thank you for the great tips, very helpful as usual!
2 years ago
gemsdirect says:
These are some great ideas - always important to make sure our tasks are effective in addition to being efficient.
2 years ago
ReneeRobbins says:
thanks for the tips!
2 years ago
moonstruck48 says:
These are great tools for anytime of year! Thank you for taking the time to write this. As a new seller, I look forward to trying out these helpful hints!
2 years ago
myglamour says:
I need these tips!
2 years ago
banyantreeclothing says:
Well, I thought I was organized. Might have to work on it a bit.
2 years ago
KDemARTe says:
Thanks for a great article! I started off the year trying better organizing my studio....there are some great tips here!
2 years ago
Charmish says:
February is a great time to evaluate sales, designs, plans for the new year. January is still high post-holiday sales! Feb/march tend to slow down a bit, so even though I WANT to take a break and reorganize, I wait. I love all the tips in this article. Thanks
2 years ago
LISMI says:
Thank you very much! getting organized creates a lot of energy.
2 years ago
kateendle says:
Tis the season! Thanks for the inspiration.
2 years ago
Stilltreejewellery says:
Awesome, even as an anally retentive organiser/list maker, this is really handy - thanks!
2 years ago
kittybblove says:
Yes! Thank you. All it comes down to is action :D
2 years ago
TodaysBaby says:
For those who work at home: get dressed!!! Before you even start #1 on your to do list, get dressed. Don't get sucked into the computer first thing--that will really slow you down. Let friends know you don't answer the phone to chat until (fill in a window of time.) Make all your errands in one trip, preferably once a week,except to the post office. Be ruthless about limiting interruptions when you're working, whatever it takes.
2 years ago
RockaBlanky says:
come in visit our shop we are doing FREE SHIPPING on all products Great for new mommy's or mommy's to be let's not leave out the grand parents to give to your grand babies
2 years ago
GoodLife00 says:
good tips. but I would like to learn this plan,and how to do on the Excel
2 years ago
SimplyInvitingCards says:
I made a resolution to reorganize my studio and it's still on-going, but progress has happened. I also recently blogged about setting and executing goals. This article nicely complements the 'organize & focus' mantra I've been establishing for myself. Thanks for sharing these wonderful tips!
2 years ago
DrawntoLetters says:
Inspiring tips and links. I find I am more productive in less space if I separate the types of tasks into work stations in different rooms or corners. It focuses me on the work at hand and offers a movement break.I also schedule weekly time for new ideas when I can be uninterrupted.
2 years ago
DetroitKnitter says:
Thanks for posting the handy tips!
2 years ago
raori says:
Great inspiration, thanks a lot!
2 years ago
kirevi8 says:
So useful,Thank you! will read vey carefully!
2 years ago
limezinnias says:
Thanks for the tips and links and info and help.....
2 years ago
bellasparty says:
Great tips! Thank you!
2 years ago
buttonandboo says:
this is wonderful! thanks a million!
2 years ago
HildeMosaics says:
thank you ,very useful
2 years ago
MyCuteBoutique says:
Great ideas, thanks ... anything to help is appreciated. C J
2 years ago
anakim says:
Thank you!
2 years ago
RedRobinArt says:
EXCELLENT! I have printed this and will work it in with my plans, for sure! Thanks so very much for everything! You guys are the very BEST! I have even saved the comments for further reading too! Blessings to you everyone!
2 years ago
GemdropsoftheFalls says:
Thank you for the great tips. We joined Etsy in November 2008 so we're still learning what works. These forums are so helpful! We will definitely take your organizing tips to heart. We find that having a daily routine of going through our shop and completing a checklist helps us keep focus and keep our shop up to date.
2 years ago
Yayahandicraft says:
Thank you so much, you have a lot ideas useful for us.
2 years ago
QuietStorytellers says:
I doubt I will ever be completely organized, but I thank you from the bottom of my heart for trying to help!
2 years ago
craftive says:
LOVE it, thanks
2 years ago
TwiceAsNiceBoutique says:
Great tips! Thanks!
2 years ago
TheVintageDresser says:
Great information. Organization is an ongoing problem for me!
2 years ago
TimmerysBebeBling says:
THANKS!!! Great tips!!! I think I might spend the weekend better organizing myself and my hair accessories!!!
2 years ago
crochetedbycharlene says:
There's so much to learn to get a shop up and running and noticed. Thanks for the reminder to stay on task!
2 years ago
AlpineGypsy says:
I ALWAYS need more help in this category! THANK YOU! :) Heidi
2 years ago
DestinysTreasures says:
Great tips. Thank you:)
2 years ago
blinddog1 says:
Very useful, I'll try to keep these tips in mind.
2 years ago
JennP1751 says:
marking. These are great tips!!
2 years ago
papermellie says:
Great tips! Thanks so much for sharing!
2 years ago
KSWCreations says:
Is it weird that I love to organize!!! I love it so much sometimes it is all I get done. It is very rewarding to feel like I have accomplished something.
2 years ago
elisawalshdesigns says:
Just do it!
1 year ago
CactusAndOlive says:
Awesome tips! Thanks so much. This is my first etsy holiday season coming up, so this is certainly helpful!
1 year ago
AlexandraDashiel says:
This is great! I'm just getting started on this. And I love the advice from Studio206 - I'm finding in a small house with children that it's tough to have a lot of dedicated space but I'm trying to be creative about that. I've created a packing and shipping station near my kitchen table where I can easily pull items out when needed, all business related things in one binder, totes full of supplies where I can pull out what I need to work on when I get the chance - I've even turned half my babies room into a working studio....
1 year ago
BeachHouseLiving says:
Great tips. Blocking out creative time is great.
1 year ago
jennysprettythings says:
Great tips. I had no idea that there were sellers specializing in accounting spreadsheets. I'm excited to get mine and get organized!
1 year ago
TwinTreeCrafts says:
I am lucky enough to have a room dedicated to my workspace. However, my husband always wants me working in whatever room he's in. I find it handy to have a box with supplies for the current project I'm working on. Then I can bring the box wherever he wants me and when I'm done working I put everything back in the box so I can find it next time.
1 year ago
regencyregalia says:
Great advice thanks. I need to spend some serious time getting more organised. The tips are great will be keeping the article for future referance. Now off to find my desk again!
230 days ago