If you missed today’s #wclw chat with special guest Stephanie Auteri on how writers can get organized don’t fret.
Here’s a complete transcript, courtesy of Hashtracking.com:
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 MichelleRafter
Hi and welcome to the monthly WordCount Last Wednesday writer chat.#wclw
10:00:39 AM 08/29
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 PhilippaWrites
Looking forward to tonight’s #wclw about how to stay organised as a writer.
10:00:53 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@incurablehippie Glad you’re joining us; hard to keep track of all your various twitter handles 🙂 #wclw
10:01:19 AM 08/29
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 stephauteri
It’s so on, y’all. Follow the #wclw hashtag to talk organizational tips for writers. Hosted by @michellerafter with input from moi.
10:01:33 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Today’s subject: how writers can getting organized, a personal favorite!#wclw
10:01:35 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I’m your host, @MichelleRafter, a Portland, Ore., business journalist and blogger. #wclw
10:01:47 AM 08/29
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 NataliaSylv
Joining now: RT @stephauteri: Follow #wclw hashtag to talk organizational tips for writers. Hosted by @MichelleRafter with input from moi.
10:02:08 AM 08/29
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 vanwaffle
Join the chat on organizational tips for writers, or you may wish to usehttp://t.co/L2gJ0iVO to mute me. #wclw
10:02:37 AM 08/29
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 sabrinaplots
RT @MichelleRafter: Hi and welcome to the monthly WordCount Last Wednesday writer chat. #wclw
10:03:28 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Joining me is guest speaker @StephAuteri, a freelance writer, writing teacher and organization wiz. #wclw
10:03:37 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Hey there everyone – I’m a sex writer with a fetish for organizational tools. I’ll share my favorites over the next hour. #wclw
10:03:58 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
If you’re here for the first time, consider using TweetChat, which adds the hashtag and screens out other tweets. #wclw
10:04:04 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Please introduce yourself by sharing your name, city and the kind of writing or freelancing you do. #wclw
10:04:26 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
I’m from Clifton, NJ (20 minutes outside of NYC). I write about sexual health, both under my own byline, and as a ghostwriter for pros #wclw
10:05:33 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
I’m Philippa Willitts, I’m a freelance writer in Sheffield, England, and I do SEO copywriting, media writing and all sorts, really! #wclw
10:06:05 AM 08/29
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 alaltenburg
Hello! I’m a freelance editor from Sylvania, Ohio as well as a work at home mom. #wclw
10:06:11 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I’m Van Waffle, based in Guelph, Ontario, a freelance journalist specializing in nature, food, fibre art and sustainability. #wclw
10:06:19 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
10:06:34 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
I also made a podcast about freelance writing with a writer friend. #wclw
10:06:44 AM 08/29
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 BizTrainingWrks
RT @stephauteri: It’s so on, y’all. Follow the #wclw hashtag to talk organizational tips for writers. Hosted by @michellerafter with inp …
10:07:06 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@MichelleRafter: Thanks Michelle! I was surprised by the uproar it caused in the comments. It was syndicated on AOL. FOX, etc. #wclw
10:07:36 AM 08/29
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sabrinaplots
@MichelleRafter Hi, Sabrina, Victoria, Canada, writing a novel, short stories and poetry #wclw
10:07:44 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@MichelleRafter I’m a freelance writer in Austin, TX. I do a mixture of marketing copy & magazine work in health/green realms. #wclw
10:07:48 AM 08/29
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 mblakewrites
I’m Molly Blake. I write about milspouse issues, military children, deployments. My husband is an active duty Marine. We live in AZ #wclw
10:07:51 AM 08/29
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sabrinaplots
RT @MichelleRafter: Joining me is guest speaker @StephAuteri, a freelance writer, writing teacher and organization wiz. #wclw
10:08:11 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
@MichelleRafter Thanks! I may have to skip out early but I’ll try to stay as long as I can. #wclw
10:08:20 AM 08/29
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sabrinaplots
RT @MichelleRafter: If you’re here for the first time, consider using TweetChat, which adds the hashtag and screens out other tweets. #wclw
10:08:32 AM 08/29
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sabrinaplots
RT @MichelleRafter: Please introduce yourself by sharing your name, city and the kind of writing or freelancing you do. #wclw
10:08:46 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@NataliaSylv @mblackwrites Welcome. We’re quite the diverse bunch today, at least 3 countries accounted for. #wclw
10:09:20 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @MichelleRafter: Joining me is guest speaker @StephAuteri, a freelance writer, writing teacher and organization wiz. #wclw
10:09:44 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
To questions & latecomers can intro themselves as we go. Start replies Q1, Q2, etc., to track what answer goes with what question. #wclw
10:10:00 AM 08/29
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 SwansonWriting
@MichelleRafter #wclw Hi I’m joining the chat from the Boston area. I write about business, veterinary topics, animal health
10:10:14 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I’m going to pose a couple questions to @stephauteri first; after she answers, feel free to chime in. Then we’ll open it up to all. #wclw
10:10:38 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Q1: Steph, what are some things that keep writers from being organized?#wclw
10:11:04 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
For one thing, the freedom in freelancing, especially for the beginner, can make putting organizational systems in place difficult. #wclw
10:12:12 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Also, because freelancers are filling more roles when they work for themselves, there is more to keep track of. #wclw
10:12:26 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
In addition, freelancers tend to juggle many different clients and projects, with many different components. #wclw
10:12:42 AM 08/29
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SwansonWriting
#wclw For Q3: Ending each day by making a to-do list for the next day keeps things from slipping through the cracks
10:14:16 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Anyone else want to chime in? Q1: Working from home=lots of potential distractions: kids, pets, cleaners, etc. #wclw
10:14:25 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@SwansonWriting Thanks, we’re going to look at questions in order, so hold that thought for a few more minutes. #wclw
10:15:16 AM 08/29
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mblakewrites
Q1 do you suggest ‘punching a clock’ for each client? ie: assign1 from 9-10?, Assgn 2 10-11? #wclw
10:16:04 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q1: Yes to distractions (aside from the Internet). If a distraction exists, I will be distracted by it. #wclw
10:16:27 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q1: There is a range of priorities. When one project is urgent you may have to shuffle others on the back burner. #wclw
10:17:02 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@mblakewrites: I actually do like tackling each project within a specific chunk of time, and then moving on to the next one. #wclw
10:17:03 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Q1: Agree w/@stephauteri on Internet – great for research but easy to find yourself down the rabbit hole of looking up random stuff #wclw
10:17:07 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@mblakewrites: Q1. When you’re juggling so many different things, it can be overwhelming if you don’t do something like that. #wclw
10:17:39 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
I think another issue is that your working day can change entirely with one phonecall, priorities change etc. Hard to plan. #wclw
10:17:41 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Agreed! RT @stephauteri: Finally: THE INTERNET! The worlds biggest distraction. 🙂 #wclw
10:18:01 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
On to the next question. Q2: @stephauteri, what are some of your favorite low-tech ways to get organized? #wclw
10:18:27 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@PhilippaWrites: Q1. So true. I hate last-second changes to my schedule, but part of being a freelancer is rolling w/ the punches. #wclw
10:18:55 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Great point MT @PhilippaWrites: Your work day can change entirely with one phone call, priorities change etc. Hard to plan. #wclw
10:19:06 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Just trying to keep up with other writers and conctacts online can be a major time suck. #wclw
10:19:17 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. I carry a notebook around at all times in case new story ideas pop up.#wclw
10:19:20 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@PhilippaWrites Agreed! Or when you think one project is complete, but it turns out it needs edits, etc. #wclw
10:19:26 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @MichelleRafter: On to the next question. Q2: @stephauteri, what are some of your favorite low-tech ways to get organized? #wclw
10:19:37 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. I also have a filing cabinet where I keep tax info, pay stubs, print clips, receipts for business expenses, etc. #wclw
10:19:49 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Same as working in a newsroom MT @stephauteri: @PhilippaWrites: Q1. but part of being a freelancer is rolling w/ the punches. #wclw
10:19:54 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
@NataliaSylv Yes, absolutely! Or when you’re expecting something to need more edits but they love it as it is! #wclw
10:19:56 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
Q1 I had a total rearrange of my schedule just today because of one phone call. Now it will be a late night so no organization. #wclw
10:20:02 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. I love me my files and notebooks but, aside from those, all my stuff is primarily online. #wclw
10:20:27 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Yes & a lot easier than writing! RT @vanwaffle: Just trying to keep up with other writers and contacts online can be a major time suck #wclw
10:20:37 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Q2. For me, a notepad, a whiteboard (which I wrote about for Michelle’s blog!), and to-do lists. And millions of folders. #wclw
10:21:30 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. Right now, I’m restricted to a tiny desk, and part of my husband’s filing cabinet (long story). So I try to restrict hard copies. #wclw
10:22:22 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Q2: Whiteboards are good for organizing tasks. @PhilippaWrites did this WordCount guest post on how to use them: http://t.co/ctkJ1BNN #wclw
10:22:24 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. Though I do actually have a drawer just for magazines, all in alphabetical order. #wclw
10:22:40 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@stephauteri Talk more about scheduling your time/day as a way to be more organized. #wclw
10:23:16 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q2 I agree about keeping filing cabinet. I had one in the 90s and now it is just as valuable. #wclw
10:23:17 AM 08/29
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 wagnerwrites
10:23:27 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@stephauteri Q2: I’m big on paper planners, but everything else is online. My favorite is Shoeboxed for biz receipts & expenses. #wclw
10:23:31 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@alaltenburg Same here, especially when it’s just to hectic to go online to Evernote. #wclw
10:23:55 AM 08/29
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mblakewrites
Q2: two whiteboards: one for actual assignments. One for follow ups#wclw
10:23:59 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@alaltenburg: I dream of the day when I can have my own office, with a bulletin board for post-it notes. 🙂 #wclw
10:24:01 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@stephauteri I have way too many magazines. Some have my clips, others are archives I say I’ll use for research, but never do. #wclw
10:24:07 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@wagnerwrites Thanks for joining us, and yes, if you don’t include hashtag (or log on through TweetChat) we won’t see your tweets. 🙂#wclw
10:24:27 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
Q2 I do not have many low-tech methods. My favorite high tech is Google Calendar that can sync with the husband. #wclw
10:24:29 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@MichelleRafter: Q2. Aha. Yes. As far as scheduling my day goes, I maintain set work hours (8:30 – 6). I’m strict about those. #wclw
10:25:03 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@alaltenburg We’re getting to high-tech methods next, hang in there.#wclw
10:25:13 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. My hours keep me on task, and also help me to maintain work/life balance. #wclw
10:25:23 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@vanwaffle Q2 We also bought 2 file cabinets from a co. going out of biz in 1995, still have them. Great way to get 1 cheap. #wclw
10:25:31 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. Throughout the course of the day, I schedule chunks of time for different tasks/projects. #wclw
10:26:03 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I mostly use the filing cabinet to keep track of markets, finances and administration. #wclw
10:26:12 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@NataliaSylv @stephauteri Q2: I have boxes of clips from my newspapers days stashed in a closet; all my recent clips are online#wclw
10:26:18 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q2. Otherwise, I might linger for too long on just one to-do list item! It keeps me working more efficiently. #wclw
10:26:25 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Good idea RT @stephauteri: Q2. As far as scheduling my day goes, I maintain set work hours (8:30 – 6). I’m strict about those. #wclw
10:26:55 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
RT @stephauteri: Q2. Throughout the course of the day, I schedule chunks of time for different tasks/projects. #wclw
10:27:21 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@NataliaSylv: I only keep a copy of the most recent issue. I’ll slip some of my fave stories from past issues inside the front cover. #wclw
10:27:29 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I find I must vary my daily schedule depending on energy and non-work tasks that need to be done. #wclw
10:27:40 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@vanwaffle Same here. Filing cabinet is like an archive. Current stuff is on desk or in desk drawer. #wclw
10:27:43 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
If I feel like working in the evening, I will. It’s just important to know when to take an evening or day off. #wclw
10:28:16 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@vanwaffle: So true. Every day looks different for me. I review my daily to-do list every morning before starting work. #wclw
10:28:36 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@MichelleRafter @stephauteri Admire schedulers. I’ve been freelancing on & off for 25 years & still have a fluid schedule. #wclw
10:29:01 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
My schedule is to work when the 5 month old is sleeping 😉 So I work throughout the day and after bedtime. #wclw
10:29:04 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
10:29:06 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I do find an early morning routine is important though, to get me focused and in a good frame of mind for the day. #wclw
10:29:10 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Q2: I’ve slowed weaned myself off paper, now have 2-drawer file cabinet with expense receipts, contracts, tax stuff & a few old notes. #wclw
10:29:20 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@stephauteri @vanwaffle I’m a writer & the muse sometimes strikes at night. Not raising kids any more makes that easier to deal w/. #wclw
10:30:04 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Let’s move to Q3: @stephauteri, what are some software, apps or more high-tech tools for getting organized? #wclw
10:30:31 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @MichelleRafter: Lets move to Q3: @stephauteri, what are some software, apps or more high-tech tools for getting organized? #wclw
10:31:02 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@wagnerwrites: Before I set my work hours, I used to work ALL THE TIME. But I was neglecting my husband. We were neglecting each other#wclw
10:31:08 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. I don’t go crazy with pricey software. I take advantage of the things that are already on my computer… #wclw
10:31:56 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@stephauteri I’ll have to start doing that. I’m moving soon, so it’ll be a good time to weed through the piles of magazines. #wclw
10:31:59 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. I use labels in Gmail to organize everything that comes into my inbox.#wclw
10:32:18 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
MT @stephauteri: Before I set my work hours, I used to work ALL THE TIME. But I was neglecting my husband. Also neglecting each other.#wclw
10:32:22 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. I set up email alerts in Google Calendar to keep track of interviews and story deadlines. #wclw
10:32:43 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@MichelleRafter @stephauteri For nonwork, ShoppingList app. I create lists for all stores, types of items, incl. office supplies. #wclw
10:33:00 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. I use Excel to keep track of story ideas, pitches, business expenses, etc. I love Excel! #wclw
10:33:02 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I just started doing this RT @stephauteri: Q3. I use labels in Gmail to organize everything that comes into my inbox. #wclw
10:33:07 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @stephauteri: Q3. I set up email alerts in Google Calendar to keep track of interviews and story deadlines. #wclw
10:33:20 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Outlook has similar feature MT @stephauteri: Q3. I set up email alerts in Google Calendar to track interviews and story deadlines. #wclw
10:33:40 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. I use Echosign for my contracts. I love how easy it is to get those e-signatures. I think maybe I got that idea from you Natalia? #wclw
10:33:56 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Me too. RT @MichelleRafter: I just started doing this RT @stephauteri: Q3. I use labels in Gmail to organize everything that comes in. #wclw
10:34:13 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@stephauteri Q3 MT, again. Excel for all biz expenses, mileage, time tracking. Tried apps but prefer all in 1 set of worksheets. #wclw
10:34:32 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I have to learn to love it more MT @stephauteri: Q3. I use Excel to track story ideas, pitches, business expenses, etc. I love Excel! #wclw
10:34:39 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q3. And I am a GQueues evangelist when it comes to maintaining a variety of to-do lists. #wclw
10:34:39 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
MT @stephauteri: Q3. I use Echosign for my contracts. I love how easy it is to get those e-signatures. #wclw
10:35:04 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@stephauteri Alerts are everything. Use SMS option a lot from Google calendar. #wclw
10:35:05 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Must investigate this RT @stephauteri: Q3. I use Echosign for contracts. I love how easy it is to get those e-signatures. #wclw
10:35:16 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I use http://t.co/7E5Hq0Lo, offers similar service RT @stephauteri: Q3. I use Dropbox to back up all my files. #wclw
10:35:36 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@mblakewrites: For pitches, story idea, etc.? You mean that spreadsheet? #wclw
10:35:37 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @stephauteri: Q3. And I am a GQueues evangelist when it comes to maintaining a variety of to-do lists. #wclw
10:35:40 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@stephauteri Yes, EchoSign’s the best! No more fax or paperwork. Plus, every time I sent it to a new client, they’re impressed. #wclw
10:36:29 AM 08/29
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 LoriVolkman
@stephauteri and @MichelleRafter, just joining #wclw. I’m Lori Volkman, a Portland area writer on military family issues. I’m caught up …
10:36:30 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Q3 I use Boomerang to schedule emails when necessary, that saves me having to remember things! #wclw
10:36:36 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Q3 I use Gmail filters so that only the most important things reach my inbox. Everything else is labelled for when I need it #wclw
10:36:36 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I think I need to do a post on to-do list apps MT @stephauteri: Q3. I am a GQueues evangelist when it comes to maintaining to-do lists #wclw
10:36:38 AM 08/29
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 L_Tokie
@MichelleRafter @stephauteri Been lurking, but must say I use Scrivener for ideas and story organization. Love it #wclw
10:37:06 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Q3 Google Docs for collaborative work is amazing. No more mix-ups with dozens of versions of one file flying around! #wclw
10:37:36 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@PhilippaWrites I love Boomerang. Sometimes I work odds hours, but I like to send in assignments during office hours. #wclw
10:38:10 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q3: I use Evernote to organize practically everything that isn’t in the filing cabinet. #wclw
10:38:25 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
RT @PhilippaWrites: Q3 Google Docs for collaborative work is amazing. No more mix-ups w/dozens of versions of one file flying around! #wclw
10:38:36 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
RT @L_Tokie: @MichelleRafter @stephauteri Been lurking, but must say I use Scrivener for ideas and story organization. Love it #wclw
10:38:41 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@PhilippaWrites: This is true. I must admit I still send around a single word doc all marked up with tracked changes. #wclw
10:38:47 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
@NataliaSylv I’m the same! I think it would look unprofessional if I emailed work at midnight or some other weird time #wclw
10:38:56 AM 08/29
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LoriVolkman
@MichelleRafter The ‘Couve, but yes. Thanks! So I have another high-tech idea I just heard about – Loosecubes. #wclw
10:39:01 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Just started using this & like it RT @vanwaffle: Q3: I use Evernote to organize practically everything that isnt in filing cabinet. #wclw
10:39:28 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@PhilippaWrites Couldn’t get colleagues, clients into Google Docs but one team does some file sharing w/ DropBox. #wclw
10:39:29 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
I use http://t.co/Pyrv08eB that tracks my business spending and figures out my taxes for me. #wclw
10:39:35 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
@stephauteri That works fine if only one person is working on the doc, but if several are, I just find that impossible #wclw
10:39:54 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
10:40:07 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q3: @jenwillis also suggested Scrivener is good. Has anyone compared it with Evernote? #wclw
10:40:48 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@PhilippaWrites: I mostly do it that way b/c I like to control who is working on a doc when. #wclw
10:41:15 AM 08/29
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L_Tokie
@MichelleRafter @PhilippaWrites Just started using http://t.co/4xh47veKfor collaboration. So far so good. #wclw
10:41:29 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Q3: When it comes to social media, I lack willpower, so I use StayFocused extension for Chrome to limit daily minutes on FB et al#wclw
10:41:31 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@PhilippaWrites: When I’m ghostwriting with multiple people, the editing process can quickly spiral out of control. 🙂 #wclw
10:41:39 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@PhilippaWrites: Basically, I’m admitting that I’m a control freak. 😉 #wclw
10:41:53 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@PhilippaWrites I sometimes work in hi-tech & it’s amazing how low-tech they can be. They are usually emailing w/ track changes. #wclw
10:42:29 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
As an introvert I get tired of social media like Facebook quickly, so it’s fairly self-limiting. #wclw
10:43:16 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
@wagnerwrites Yes, even the most advanced of companies can get stuck in a rut #wclw
10:43:24 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@MichelleRafter Q3 StayFocused! I need that – I manage several accounts for my business & clients. Thanks. #wclw
10:43:42 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@alaltenburg I’m a big Outright fan. I’ve synched that w/ Shoeboxed & Harvest (invoicing) to automate my income/expense tracking. #wclw
10:43:43 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I have a harder time with discussion forums where I can spend hours crafting a comment. #wclw
10:43:48 AM 08/29
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L_Tokie
RT Q3: @jenwillis also suggested Scrivener is good. Has anyone compared it with Evernote? @tybeltramo, thoughts? #wclw
10:44:13 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@vanwaffle: Introverts unite! (separately) [I just saw this on a T-shirt and it made me giggle.] #wclw
10:44:26 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@vanwaffle: I feel as if I have a hard time maintaining too many social media accounts. I want to give one account my full attention. #wclw
10:45:01 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Love it! RT @stephauteri: @vanwaffle: Introverts unite! (separately) [I just saw this on a T-shirt and it made me giggle.] #wclw
10:45:05 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I put FLX on StayFocused too 🙂 RT @vanwaffle: I have a harder time with discussion forums where I can spend hours crafting a comment. #wclw
10:45:27 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@vanwaffle: But on the whole, social media is easier for me than in person, b/c it gives me time to digest info + respond later. #wclw
10:46:18 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
Outright can be tied to your bank account so it tracks all the spending and puts it into categories. #wclw
10:46:42 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Aha! RT @MichelleRafter: I put FLX on StayFocused too 🙂 RT@vanwaffle: I have a harder time with discussion forums. #wclw
10:46:48 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@MichelleRafter It’s a great bookkeeping tool. It can synch with your bank, credit cards, PayPal, etc. to get income/expense reports #wclw
10:46:57 AM 08/29
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L_Tokie
@vanwaffle Sure. Sorry that somehow your name got dropped. Ty uses both. #wclw
10:47:19 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Keep app suggestions coming. Onto last Q for @stephauteri: If you’re organization challenged, how do you get started? #wclw
10:47:22 AM 08/29
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NataliaSylv
@MichelleRafter It also estimates your quarterly taxes for you (though I still work with an accountant) #wclw
10:47:40 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Thanks MT @NataliaSylv: Outright a bookkeeping tool. It can synch with bank, credit cards, PayPal, etc. to get income/expense reports #wclw
10:48:22 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q4. Different people prefer different organizational tactics. It’s all about trying out different systems and seeing what feels right. #wclw
10:48:36 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
@stephauteri That’s when you subcontract to an editor, so you can keep writing instead of editing 😉 #wclw
10:48:44 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I use different social media for different purposes. FB has more to do with my social circle than professional. #wclw
10:48:47 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@NataliaSylv Thanks for reminding me about quarterly taxes, which are due on 9/15 (guess I could use a reminder app for that) #wclw
10:49:06 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q4. Start simple. Pick the one thing you feel is especially out of your control, and focus on that first. #wclw
10:49:07 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
MT @MichelleRafter: Onto last Q for @stephauteri: If youre organization challenged, how do you get started? #wclw
10:49:23 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
MT @stephauteri: Q4. (To get organized) Start simple. Pick 1 thing you feel is especially out of your control, and focus on that first #wclw
10:50:00 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@vanwaffle I need a biz FB page as a proof of concept for my so-me work but it’s not helping me get biz. #wclw
10:50:12 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
I agree to pick one area that is not organized and fix that first. #wclw
10:50:37 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I blog for same reason RT @wagnerwrites I need a biz FB page as a proof of concept for my so-me work but its not helping me get biz. #wclw
10:51:11 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Q4 If things are starting to feel a bit out of control, tidying my desk seems to work wonders for my outlook #wclw
10:51:36 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Let’s open it up for discussion. Any questions for @stephauteri, or anything else you want to throw out there – now’s the time. #wclw
10:52:04 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
I’ve been considering setting up a biz page, too. RT @wagnerwrites:@vanwaffle I need a biz FB page. #wclw
10:52:09 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
Q4. For me, it was my schedule that was the most out of control when I first started freelancing. But it took awhile to rein that in. #wclw
10:53:02 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@MichelleRafter Yes, blogging, Twitter, Pinterest. Eventually will grow the so-me work but not sure it will make as much $ as writing. #wclw
10:53:11 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@PhilippaWrites I save cleaning my desk as a reward for after I file a story; it’s a fresh start mentally and physically. #wclw
10:53:35 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Even depressing. RT @stephauteri: @PhilippaWrites: YES! Physical clutter is always distracting. #wclw
10:53:38 AM 08/29
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LoriVolkman
Q4.Understand finding the “one thing” but how do u get the “right” amount of time allocated? My “one thing” is usually the “big thing” #wclw
10:53:44 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
@MichelleRafter That’s really interesting, it’s the same idea but at the opposite end of the spectrum! #wclw
10:54:12 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q4: I have an inherited 1920s oak desk where I seldom work, but clearing the surface makes me very happy. #wclw
10:54:34 AM 08/29
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 lindsey_donner
@stephauteri Steph, I second that. Self-discipline is a challenge, especially because the writing/editing life can be lonely. #wclw
10:54:53 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@LoriVolkman: Do you mean the right amount of time for each project? That’s why I reevaluate my to-do list every morning. #wclw
10:54:59 AM 08/29
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221
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wagnerwrites
@mblakewrites Nice to meet you thru #wclw. A good friend is very involved w/ Blue Star Moms here in San Jose.
10:55:07 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@LoriVolkman: Then I can schedule out those blocks of time according to priority. #wclw
10:55:15 AM 08/29
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PhilippaWrites
Got to head off, need to get some things done before the Paralympic Opening Ceremony starts! Great chat, folks #wclw
10:55:47 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
RT @PhilippaWrites: Q4 If things are starting to feel a bit out of control, tidying my desk seems to work wonders for my outlook #wclw
10:56:02 AM 08/29
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LoriVolkman
@stephauteri Ah yes, prioritizing. Seems to be a moving target, priorities. Is that normal? #wclw
10:57:21 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Q4: I “eat the frog” frequently: tackle the most frightening task first. It is very freeing and often inspiring. #wclw
10:57:24 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
I also have to head off to write a brochure. Thanks to everyone on #wclw – great ideas!
10:57:44 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
@vanwaffle I can relate to sense of accomplishment a small cleanup project brings. Nice counterbalance to brain work we do as writers #wclw
10:57:54 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Great idea @vanwaffle I “eat the frog” frequently: tackle the most frightening task first. It is very freeing and often inspiring. #wclw
10:58:34 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@philippawrites You said it! Thanks for your insights today. Have a good rest of the week. #wclw
10:58:36 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@LoriVolkman: Buaahahaha. I often feel that my career path in general is a moving target. 🙂 #wclw
10:58:38 AM 08/29
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L_Tokie
Great! MT @vanwaffle Q4: I “eat the frog” frequently: tackle the most frightening task first. It is very freeing and often inspiring. #wclw
10:58:53 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@vanwaffle It’s been a great lesson for me but FB is frustrating. If you do it, remember you are a lab rat. #wclw
10:59:31 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
@NataliaSylv “eating the frog” relates to a favourite Eleanor Roosevelt quote about doing something every day that scares you. #wclw
10:59:51 AM 08/29
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wagnerwrites
@michellerafter I know better now, with all the great advice I saw today! 🙂#wclw
10:59:53 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
🙂 RT @wagnerwrites: @vanwaffle Its been a great lesson for me but FB is frustrating. If you do it, remember you are a lab rat. #wclw
11:00:23 AM 08/29
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240
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MichelleRafter
A big round of applause to guest speaker @StephAuteri for sharing her organization insights – thanks Steph. #wclw
11:00:30 AM 08/29
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241
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stephauteri
RT @vanwaffle: Q4: I “eat the frog” frequently: tackle the most frightening task first. It is very freeing and often inspiring. #wclw
11:00:36 AM 08/29
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242
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LoriVolkman
@MichelleRafter @stephauteri thanks for the info. I am out. Thanks@mollyblakewrites for the invite. See you guys again! #wclw
11:01:21 AM 08/29
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stephauteri
@MichelleRafter: Thanks Michelle! I love nerding out about this stuff.#wclw
11:01:23 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Next writer chat is 9/26 @ 10 am PDT. Online marketing expert@RussHenneberry will share secrets for boosting blog readers & traffic.#wclw
11:02:52 AM 08/29
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alaltenburg
@stephauteri thank you for the tips!! I’m off to write some software documentation. #wclw
11:03:04 AM 08/29
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L_Tokie
11:03:20 AM 08/29
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vanwaffle
Thanks @MichelleRafter. I can’t believe how quickly these hours pass. It seems like 20 minutes. #wclw
11:03:42 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
Until next time, read more on writing, freelancing and blogging basics athttp://t.co/cagurRLH. #wclw
11:03:51 AM 08/29
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 jshermanmilton
RT @MichelleRafter: RT @stephauteri: Q2. Throughout the course of the day, I schedule chunks of time for different tasks/projects. #wclw
11:05:29 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
11:14:29 AM 08/29
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MichelleRafter
I just updated this Twitter list of apps for writers with all organization tools mentioned during today’s #wclw chat: https://t.co/DjKQWhBO
11:28:33 AM 08/29
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 JGilling
RT @MichelleRafter: I just updated this Twitter list of apps for writers with all organization tools mentioned during today’s #wclw chat …
11:39:19 AM 08/29
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jshermanmilton
RT @MichelleRafter: Transcript will be up later today RT@UrbanMuseWriter: Wish I could join #WCLW today but Im tied up in phone intervi …
11:42:13 AM 08/29
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 jenwillis
@vanwaffle Sorry I missed #wclw today! I’ve recently started using Evernote alongside Scrivener.
11:51:47 AM 08/29
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 mjgru
RT @MichelleRafter: I just updated this Twitter list of apps for writers with all organization tools mentioned during today’s #wclw chat …
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stephauteri
RT @MichelleRafter: I just updated this Twitter list of apps for writers with all organization tools mentioned during today’s #wclw chat …
12:02:43 PM 08/29
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 FocusHousePress
RT @MichelleRafter: Transcript will be up later today RT@UrbanMuseWriter: Wish I could join #WCLW today but Im tied up in phone intervi …
12:47:20 PM 08/29
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I found the comments at the end regarding having a FB page interesting. I have thought about it but I’m not sure what I would share on there as a writer. It seems more natural that someone in a visual industry – graphic design or maybe web design would share on a FB page.
Thoughts? Might make for a blog post or future chat topic. I wonder how many writers have one for their biz.
Holly: You’re a mind reader. I am prepping a poll for WordCount readers to see where people spend the most time online – because I want to take the great interactions that happen here, and during the #wclw chats, and on the Blogathon Google Group and put them in one place. Facebook could be that place, if that’s where most of my readers hang out. If you think of a Facebook page as a “community,” there are lots of different ways to use it – to share links to blog posts, crowdsource help when you get stuck working on research or writing a story, and the like. Stay tuned for more.
Michelle