Habits

We're all creatures of habit.  The trick is to establish good ones.

Slate on the daily rituals of creatives.

Check your baggage

You don't need it, it adds no value, and it takes up space - either measurable real estate or conceptual space. It's there because you thought it was important, or that you might want it or need it later. Those things might be true but, like the suitcase of next week's clothes when you're on a plane, you don't need 'em right now.

So you check it. You can still get it back when you need it, if you need it.

Something

If something is always better than nothing, then less is only more up to a point.

The Box

The most important part of thinking outside the box... is the box. So, go get yourself a box, and get very familiar with it. Now you can let your mind step outside.

What do you see there?

Boxes

Setting limits - defining what you say "no" to - can seem like putting yourself in a box. View it, instead, as putting the things that you're not comfortable with in boxes. You can then maneuver around them or examine them more closely if you choose.

By sequestering them, quarantining them, putting these jobs/projects/conditions under glass - you are being both honest and wise. Few situations are worse than taking a job you you don't want. Either you or the client - and probably both - will be disappointed.

So set your rules and stick to them. When an opportunity arises that is on your "no" list, be clear (with yourself, at least) that it's not the type of thing you normally do.

You can always give it a second look. Remember - you're not in the box.

Yes

Know when to say yes.

Know when to say no.