We all have times when we simply do not feel like getting into the studio and getting down to work. Sometimes it's not a lack of desire but a lack of organization. Use these tips to help you make the most of your

1) Put like things with like, especially if you specialize in several different kinds of jewelry making. For instance you could have a soldering station, a wire wrapping station and a mixed media station  - and each could have their own supplies.

Yes, some of the supplies (like a wire cutter or scissors) could be used in multiple places so you could leave them on top of a table in a container where you can grab them quickly. Having a space that is at least somewhat clean and organized is much more pleasant to walk into than a space that is a total wreck.

Take that a step farther and streamline your creative process by putting your tools in the order in which you use them. Or put the tools you use most next to your work station. For example, put the most used mixed media jewelry making supplies NEXT to that station rather than in an artful arrangement on a shelf. Having the tools you use most closest to you saves time and energy plus it makes it easier to get to work because there is less time wasted hunting for tools before getting started.

2) Organize your creative space for volume. Creative spaces used for business can look vastly different than spaces used by hobbyists. A hobbyist can put a weekend’s worth of work away, nice and neat, until the next weekend - but a business person will be using the supplies daily.

In stead of trying to put everything away each night make sure you have enough organized space to lay out the projects and tools you are working on. Putting things away and taking them out again every day can waste time and be another excuse to delay being productive.

(Note: This only applies to a project you are currently working on. See #1 about having a relatively neat and organized space.)

3) Work on multiple items if you can.  Not every item can be made 3 or 6 at a time but if you can, try it. Even if you aren’t used to thinking in a multiple frame of mind, taking the time to streamline your process and create several items at once can really make you feel much more productive. 

4) Eliminate distractions. Turn off the computer or the phone (if you can) and turn your full attention to your work. While turning off the computer for a few hours of work can be difficult since, for many of us, it is the key to our livelihood it’s far too easy to find yourself being drawn to facebook or email when we should be working. 

5) Finally, celebrate what you’ve accomplished. Take some time at the end of the day to step back and admire what you’ve accomplished. If it’s been a “Red Letter” day and you’ve produced more than usual or gotten a really fabulous order, be sure to celebrate in a way that means something to you. Whether it’s a glass of wine or a new pair of shoes be sure to give yourself a pat on the back. It will definitely have you eager to get back to work tomorrow!

Here are some other business related articles you might like:

What’s Your Excuse for Not Starting Your Handmade Jewelry Business?

30 Ways to Find Creative Inspiration

10 Tips for Saving Money in Your Jewelry Making Business

Plan Your Jewelry Business Attack

Business Books for the Creative Crafter

Bridal Jewelry Business How-To's

Launching Your Handmade Jewelry Business

Reasons for Legalizing a Jewelry Business

Good Manners in Your Handmade Jewelry Business