Today’s post is more personal in nature; after all, I’m not just a Raiser’s Edge monkey- I’m a person, too
When you run a business from a home office like I do, you face numerous challenges, not the least of which is efficiently managing what may be a small workspace. Just last week, I was rearranging my desktop ( my real one, not my computer) to try to create more workspace. I had been very stingy with the space available when, in celebration of the 3rd anniversary of Leading Edge in October, I bought “big girl” office furniture, so I wasn’t sure I would have any luck with that concept.
As I evaluated the items I had chosen to keep close around me, I was stricken by what those choices would tell someone about me and about what I value in my life and in running my business. Aside from my gi-normous College of Charleston diploma proudly displayed on t
he wall behind me, you’ll only find a few “trinkets” on my desk.
First, you will find 2 daily devotion books- Daily Guideposts and Starting Your Day Right, by Joyce Meyer. I start most mornings in my office with 15 minutes of quiet time to read and ponder the day’s selection. Doing so keeps me mindful of the role my faith has played and continues to play in my life and feeds my spiritual side.
They keep me faithful.
Secondly, you’ll find a photo of the hubster. It’s not a recent photo, mind you, but one of him when I first met, and ultimately fell in love with, him. I like having it nearby because it reminds me of where it all began and how far we’ve come, both
as a couple and as individuals. He sits there with that coy, smirky grin that says, “Don’t forget! I knew you when!’ He keeps me humble.
Third, you’ll notice a little gavel. This was a gift of appreciation I received many years ago from a Toastmasters club as a thank you for serving as Chief Judge for their International Speech contest. Aside from the people and the memories it represents, it serves as a reminder to me to always be an active listener (yes, in Toastmasters we learn about listening, not just speaking) and to be fair in my judgments.
It keeps me fair minded.
Finally, you’ll see a silly little coconut drink (now pencil) holder. He is a souvenir from a Raiser’s Edge training I did years ago for an organization in Daytona Beach, FL. Under his cute little face is the inscription, “Have Fun”. When I get bogged down or am feeling overloaded, his perpetual grin and message remind of one of the guiding principles of my business: “just because it’s serious doesn’t mean it can’t be fun”. After all, one of the tag lines that we use often around here is, “Knowledgeable. Affordable. FUN!“.
He keeps me fun!
Look around on your desk; what do you see? What, if anything, does it say about you? What would I learn about you based on what’s on your desktop? I’d love to hear about your treasures!
