We all like to be busy, but sometimes there are just those slow days. You know the ones, your work has been submitted for comments and you’re left with a whole day with not a singe piece of design to do. Instead of wasting the day wandering around the house or office wondering what to do, or maintaining your farm on FaceBook, keep a list of quick look options to hand and refer to it for a fast flash of inspiration. Here are a few things to get you started.
Go for a run
Clear your head, get some fresh air and enjoy those endorphins. Running is a proven de-stress tactic and a good way to find unexpected inspiration. If you don’t run then take a long stroll, enjoy your surroundings. Not only is this great exercise, the break from any type of gadget, gizmo or screen does wonders for well being. It’s also another way of bumping into neighbours, and perhaps an opportunity to drop your company name into conversation.
File paperwork
I know it’s not exciting but it’s had to make this list. Take 90 minutes to sort, shred and file those papers that are gradually piling up. Having an organised work space makes for a cleared head and a more relaxed surrounding. Plus think of all those hours you’ll save rummaging through a mountain of paperwork to find that all important invoice!
Sketch up an imaginary design
Just because you don’t have an active client to design for, doesn’t mean you have to stop designing altogether. Write a quick brief and come up with some sketches. There’s no reason this can’t then be added to your portfolio as a personal project.
Brush up your software skills
This could be linked to the previous activity – by continuing to ‘play’ with your chosen software you continue to refine your skills, maybe even learning some new ones along the way. Experimenting isn’t usually something you can do whilst working on a client project, so now’s the time to have a tinker, and get creative!
Be social
By this I don’t mean spending a free afternoon at the local pub catching up with friends, as tempting as it seems! Be available and active on Twitter, FaceBook and LinkedIn. Here you can help other users with their questions and concerns as well as ask for help with any issues you may have. Of course it’s not just for asking and answering questions. Twitter is a n excellent way of keeping up with news and trends, there is an ongoing supply of current information and design news. Just don’t et too carried away when you have actual real work to do!
Get writing
Designing is your thing, your forte and quite possibly your passion. That doesn’t always mean you should forget other creative outlets. With the numerous blogs online all offering a wealth if information, there are many places available to write. Some even offer a payment in return for good copy. As well as keeping your mind working, guest writing also gains you exposure.
