Digital scrappers, like our paper sisters (and former/other selves), share a unique challenge in managing all the supplies for our craft. You can find many strategies for this challenge in the archive of digital organization tips, answers that can help you customize the right solution for your needs.
However, I recently received two emails, specifically asking for even more help in tackling the endless stream of freebies and new purchases. This left me wondering if there is one universal approach I can share.
Regardless of the software or folder structure you employ, getting and staying organized requires a certain amount of repetition. The trick is making those tasks part of your routine and like second nature. To effectively manage your digital supplies, you only need one thing: consistency.
- Decide on the simplest solution that will work for you.
- Do it.
- Do it again.
You’ve heard of the baby steps approach and varying theorems on how many days it takes to make a habit. Start with one action that will help you stay more organized – like unzipping and labeling kits right away or downloading your memory card on the day photos were taken. Commit to that action and do it, always.
Keep the end goal in mind. You want to be able to find digital supplies with ease, in ways that you will use them. Begin at the level you are and build from there. Consistency will keep you from feeling buried by your digital stash.
great tips as always… Im know this may be an odd little request, but do you know where you snagged that picture of all of the lil mrs. incredibles? My boyfriend just looked over my shoulder and had a mini heart attack and begged me to ask you. He adores that movie and wants the figurines so bad! lol, thanks in advance!
You are SO smart!
I find that nearly five years into my digital addiction, I am still struggling with getting things organized to serve me best and to help make me more productive!
After reading your post on the Larry Winget Guide to Scrapbooking, I find that I, more than ever, need to find some sort of a balance in that I SO enjoy giving to and helping others, that I put my own needs last and sooner, rather than later, become a disorganized mish-mash of less than what I could be!
I SO appreciate your “simple” techniques Jennifer and am VERY happy to have found your site. I hope to come back and read through all of your “organizational” posts to glean and, hopefully, come up with a method to my madness!
I think I shall spend the rest of this year focusing on some re-organization and then by the new year, my desire for helping others will become more fruitful.
Wishing you and yours a VERY happy Thanksgiving! 😀