Don’t Be Afraid to Change Your World.

As you may have guessed from my last post, (here), I’m assessing what is working for me and which is not.  With the suspension of public transit service here in the city today, I wondered how I would react to such a big change in routine.  Turns out, I’ve made quite a few alterations myself.

1. Talking more purposefully at my desk…not while driving.
   Intentional discussion. It became against the law in Ontario (October) to be talking, texting etc. while driving.  Being mindful of every second of my day, I used to catch up with people when driving since I felt capable of two things at once. The new legislation has forced me to make phone calls before I leave or be committed to pull over when a call comes in while I am driving. That and I’m slightly embarrassed about my phone and keep it under wraps while out socially but that’s another post. I could purchase hands-free equipment to continue with en-route dialogue however, if I was looking to change something, I thought I should visit all the reasons for that change…and all the options.
2. Moved my desk about 30 degrees.
   New perspective.  I’m an angle gal.  There is always one piece of furniture on an angle in every room my decor style influences.  It used to drive my husband crazy.  In this particular case though, my desk is no longer on an angle but perfectly square with all walls. Weird for me but nonetheless, I’m shaking things up.  And it’s working.  My laptop is on an angle now.
3. I determined how to network (and grow) in a new way suitable for me and my business.
   Some might blanket this as embracing (ick.) change.   Here’s the thing: I networked in person like crazy when I started this business. For various reasons now, I can no longer keep up with that face to face time of “what do you do?”-ness.  All is not lost though because I enjoy learning about new people and businesses online.  Here’s the best part: Many of the new contacts I’ve made are right here in my own city.  Yes, people I haven’t met, and probably would not have continuing in the circles I had already established. I love it. Still locally aware and involved, just in another stream along a different channel. Just this weekend I thoroughly enjoyed www.smartslondon.com; something I probably wouldn’t of known could exist a year ago.
4. Switched the side of the desk I work from.
   Moved to the left side…maybe getting in touch with my left brain a little?  I compromised on the angle thing mentioned in #3.  My laptop is on an angle at my desk.  Before the ergonomic people get excited, technically, so is my chair. so I’m facing the keyboard head on.  No worries.  I did however change the side of the desk I work from.  Moved my “in/out/family/fun” filling trays to the other side as well.  It’s different and I didn’t realize how these simple changes changed my perspective too.

Small actions make big differences. Quiet drives (electronically speaking) make for great conversation from the back seat or from between my ears.  Direct, un-angled workspace sets the tone for accomplishing tasks head-on.  Letting go of older ways of business lets new ways and people come to the surface.   A new wall to look at offers different perspectives and objectives too.

None of these changes cost me anything.  Letting go of old habits in this case, was partially forced (legally) and actually saved me money in the long run.  How many people today will see the good in not being able to take the bus? (London Bus Drivers are on strike.)  I’ve seen plenty of good come out of individuals speaking up and willing to share their travel plans with the hopes to bring someone in need of a ride with them.  Habits are changing and that makes room for new things.  Let it go and let it flow.  You might be surprised where you end up!

Nimbly,

JCM