I was recently challenged to answer some questions about how I work. Here are my answers:
Location: Havelock, North Carolina.
Current gig: Entrepreneur. I recently launched a media brand called Clam Chowder.
Current mobile device: Motorola Z4
Current computer: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 6-14
One word that best describes how I work: Inspired. In everything I do, I strive to involve my passions. I am constantly trying to create things that are inspiring to me, as well as others.
What apps/software/tools can’t I live without? The Adobe Creative Cloud. I use the different applications constantly for almost all of my projects. I particularly rely on Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Premier Pro. Each program is loaded with unique tools that allow me to have complete freedom with what I create.
What’s my workspace like? I have always found it easy to focus regardless of my location. I do not have a typical, set workplace. I enjoy moving around with my work. I find that the change in location can bring in new perspectives for me. On a more in-depth level, however, my workspace is always very minimal. I prefer to just work in a space with the basic tools that I need in order to get the job done. I definitely lean away from the environment of cluttered desks and unnecessary furniture or tools.
What’s my best time saving trick? Spending time on idea-development before I actually start my projects. For instance, before I write a blog post, I often go for a walk and just contemplate the topic and where I may want to go with the body of the post. I find that giving myself the opportunity to explore my thoughts beforehand, allows for me to be more productive and have a better grasp on what I want the final product to look like. This normally helps me to get my work done faster.
What’s my favorite to-do list manager? I prefer to use Google Calendar. I find it to be extremely user friendly. I have it pre-installed on all of my devices, so it is easy for me to always have my schedule available to me. The only other program I rely on is Alexa. I often use my Amazon Alexa devices to set reminders for me.
Besides my phone and computer, what gadget can’t I live without? My digital pen. I often use this gadget in combination with my computer. They are designed to work together in order to give me a realistic digital art experience. I use it frequently. I am always working on new design or art projects. I use it for anything from creating animations to creating logos. It is a vital tool to me, and my productivity.
What everyday thing am I better at than anyone else? Cooking. I absolutely love to cook. I love creating beautiful and delicious food. My father began teaching me how to cook when I was two, and he has continued to this day. It is something that relaxes me, and comes naturally to me. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that I am better than anyone else, but I am certainly good at it, and making that claim about anything would be doubtful.
What am I currently reading? Outliers by Malcom Gladwell. This book explains the sociological perspective on success and what creates an exceptional individual.
What do I listen to while I work? I enjoy listening to the sound of rain while I work. I find it to be relaxing, and it doesn’t distract me from what I’m doing. I normally just open up rainymood.com in a tab and play it in the background while I work.
Am I more of an introvert or an extrovert? I have been told more recently that I come off as being introverted, but I have always been a bit of both. I enjoy people and social interaction, however, I prefer to interact with purpose. For instance, I often do not speak unless I have something to say. I wouldn’t necessarily place myself fully in either category.
What’s my sleep routine like? Honestly, it can be all over the place. I try not to limit myself to a schedule when it comes to things that I can be flexible with. I will stay up until I am satisfied with the day, and feel ready to rest. With that said, I always allow myself to get as close to eight hours of sleep as I can. I try to make sure that I am healthy and prepared to start the day off right.
What’s the best advice I have ever received? To never settle. My mom has always told me to never settle for less than I want. She constantly encouraged me to hold out for what I wanted. That advice is partially what encouraged me to enroll in Praxis. I knew that if I stayed in college and continued on that path, that I would be settling for an education that I wasn’t passionate about, and a future that did not excite me.
Anything else? The last thing I will mention is what gives me the motivation to work. Personally, I am a person of faith. I believe that I was created and given the ability to work by God. I believe that work allows me to grow my skills and put the things that I am passionate about into action. Work without purpose is meaningless. So, I strive to bring purpose to all the work that I do. Whether it be a small personal project or a big, professional presentation.
Thank you for reading and supporting my blog! If you would like to share some of your process or work ethic free feel to share in the comments!