Looking back at 2017; Looking ahead to 2018

I have been so remiss in blogging!  Why?  I don't know.  I have never been a person to keep a daily diary or journal, I just write occasionally when I have something to say and no one nearby to listen.

2017 was quite a year.  It was my third full year being self-employed.  Although, I still have not achieved the income I someday hope to attain, 2017 still showed an increase in my bottom line.  But to omit the fact that I am happier in my chosen vocation now than ever would be a drastic mistake.  I do love what I do!  I jokingly tell people this is the best job I've ever had because my boss makes me coffee every morning and lets me wear pj's to work, if I choose.

I did increase my product line quite a bit in 2017 and already have plans for a few more new items in 2018. I also scheduled one day each month for "Staff Development."  That forced me to take some much needed time to plan and create.  I used those days to step away from filling orders and think about new ideas and learn new techniques.  Those were beneficial, not only from the creative aspect, but also gave me time to step away from a few projects that I found tedious or stressful.  Typically, sewing/crocheting/crafting is my happy place, but there are those times that I struggle producing items for my shop.  Sometimes that's a picky customer and sometimes it just because of a difficult pattern or material with which I'm working.  Staff Development gave me a breather in those moments and subsequently inspired me to tackle those difficult things with more gusto.

2017 also gave me the opportunity to participate in some craft shows.  I started with just two in the fall and focused mainly on Christmas gift type items.  Because I do so much custom work, I'm not sure that craft shows will be a focal point for me.  It's hard to know what kind of inventory is going to be in demand season to season.  Producing several items and then having them not sell is not good for the bottom line - or the psyche.  

Besides the fact that I've never been a diary-keeper, I've also shied away from New Year's Resolutions.  So, this year, I have goals - not resolutions.  One major goal is increasing my social media contact with customers.  I plan to do more videos on Facebook, more tweeting and more blogging.  I also have a goal of presenting some products here for purchase.  I don't know exactly how that will look just yet.  (If you have suggestions, I would love to hear them!)

I hope 2018 looks as exciting for you as I am anticipating for eStudio60!  Best wishes and contact us if you have any custom craft needs!