Design Business Freedom

Latest Episodes:

092: 45 Ways to Stop Doing Too Much Jun 24, 2024

Show notes

Many business owners fall into the trap of "doing" too much and forget the simple joy of just "being." If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. We "do-ers" feel like we are being lazy if we aren't constantly performing. Let me clue you in on a lesson I had to learn the hard way. If your switch is always set to "do" instead of set to "be," your creativity, productivity, and profits will suffer.

In today's episode, you will discover the benefits of stepping into "being" and away from "doing."

You will learn that doing less can lead to more productivity, profitability, and fulfillment. I will also share practical ways to incorporate more "being" into your life. It's time to shift gears and embrace a more fulfilling, balanced approach to life. For all you do-ers out there, I'm giving you permission to do less, stop the overwhelm, and step into "being."

THE BENEFITS OF STEPPING INTO "BEING"

Taking a step back from constant activity and learning to simply be can transform your life. When you allow yourself to be present and in the moment, you not only reduce stress but also open yourself up to greater creativity and joy. When you shift from the relentless cycle of doing to a state of being, you feel more aligned, relaxed, and fulfilled.

By focusing on "being," you can accomplish more since you'll be more productive and profitable while feeling a deeper sense of fulfillment. This shift can feel drastic, especially for those who thrive on staying busy, but the rewards are profound. Giving yourself permission to step back and be creates space for personal growth, leading to greater happiness and contentment.

45 WAYS TO INCORPORATE MORE "BEING" INTO YOUR LIFE

I have created a list of 45 practical activities designed to help you embrace the joy of being. These suggestions are adaptable, allowing you to find what resonates most with you. Whether it's binge-watching your favorite series without guilt or exploring nature to rejuvenate your spirit, these activities are meant to bring balance and joy into your life. Many of the items on the list of 45 have helped me feel more inspired, fueled, curious, energized, rejuvenated, and joyous. Instead of feeling constantly drained and worn out from always doing, I encourage you to engage in a few of these activities I share in the episode.

These activities are not just about taking breaks but about creating moments of joy and relaxation that can recharge you for the tasks ahead. By integrating these practices into your routine, you'll find a better balance between doing and being, which will bring positive results to your business and personal life. DOING LESS CAN LEAD TO MORE PRODUCTIVITY, PROFITABILITY, AND FULFILLMENT

It might seem counterintuitive, but doing less can help you achieve more. When you stop overdoing and start being, you align yourself with a natural flow that boosts productivity. Stepping back from constant busyness leads to increased creativity and efficiency, making you more profitable in your business endeavors.

Focusing on being allows you to tap into a deeper sense of fulfillment, encouraging quality over quantity in your efforts. You can approach tasks with greater clarity and efficiency, when you feel mentally refreshed. For example, decluttering your workspace can lead to better focus and creativity, and taking breaks to play with your pet or enjoy a hobby can provide a mental reset that boosts overall productivity.

Embracing the joy of being rather than the constant push to do more can transform your life. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you will be more productive, profitable, and deeply fulfilled. So take a step back, breathe, and give yourself permission to just be.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

(2:05) The benefits of stepping into "being" and away from "doing"
(3:50) A list of 45 different activities to encourage "being"
(14:55) Activities that bring feelings of awe, love, and inspiration
(18:55) The benefits of decluttering, organizing, and purging
(22:25) Creating space for things that actually fulfill you
(31:05) Exercising your body and your mind
(36:05) Becoming more vulnerable and opening our hearts
(47:55) The joy that comes from living in a place of "being-ness"

When you're ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

091: Your Vision Board is Broken: How to Fix It Jun 17, 2024

Show notes

I'm sure you've heard business and life coaches advise on the importance of creating a vision board. Essentially, a vision board is a tool for personal development and achievement. The purpose is to motivate and inspire you as you work towards accomplishing your dreams. While vision boards have been a traditional tool for goal-setting, they aren't as effective as they could be. It's time we upgrade this broken tool and turn it into something that will produce the results we desire. In today's episode, you will learn why traditional vision boards are not helping you reach your goals. I also dive into the importance of specificity and visualization. You'll discover what areas of your life to include on your board. I will also explain why you should approach your board from a flow state, ensuring your intentions are aligned with your authentic being.

THE PROBLEM WITH VISION BOARDS Even though vision boards are popular with designers, they often fall short of their intended purpose. These boards may be beautiful to look at, but achieving your dreams takes more than just hanging up a pretty board on your wall or saving the digital version to your computer desktop. I believe most vision boards are too vague to be truly effective. People often create their boards with generalized goals. The board ends up looking like it could belong to just about anybody. I mean, who hasn't said "I want a new car," or "I want to go on a trip to Europe." To achieve your deepest desires, you must move from vague aspirations to clearly defined milestones. In order to fix these broken vision boards, I suggest we not only change how we approach them, but we should also change what we call them. You can call it a "goal board" or "accomplishment board," but my favorite is "celebration board." After all, you'll be celebrating once you achieve your desires.

SETTING SPECIFIC GOALS

Be particular and selective with the goals you put on your board. Your fantasies can only become realities when you know exactly what you want in life and business. For example, if you want to move into a new office to run your business, don't just stop at "new office." Think about where the office is located, how big the space is, how many windows it has, and what floor it's on. This board isn't just for setting business goals. I encourage you to include goals for different areas of your life. These areas include: Business, Finances, Relationships, Health, Travel, Investments, and more.

THE POWER OF VISUALIZATION

My clients often come to me, telling me they feel stuck when creating vision boards. To help them feel less stuck, I remind them about the power of visualization. They visualize every day in their work, without even realizing it. Allow me to share an example.

As a designer, you can walk into a new home and after just a few moments, you're already envisioning the transformation. You clearly see the newly designed space in your mind with such specificity. Your brain is establishing a roadmap for the upcoming project.

You see, you already have the ability to visualize transformations in your mind. This is the same level of clarity you need to bring to your board. When you visualize your future with clarity and specificity, then your board becomes a roadmap for your desires, goals, and celebrations.

WHAT IS HOLDING YOU BACK FROM DOING THIS?

There are a multitude of factors that hold us back from setting, visualizing, and achieving our dreams. For one, we all deal with an inner imposter that tries to tell us to think small. I want you to silence that imposter and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Another factor that keeps us from achieving our goals is a lack of awareness. We are unsure what our truest desires are. Our energetic alignment is out of whack because we are approaching life from a hustle mindset. By constantly grinding and "doing," we can't reflect on or access what we want out of life.

Your goals will become a reality when you are in a state of flow and energetic alignment. I want you to let go of all the "doing" and practice just "being." You hold the answers to what you most want. You just have to shut out the noise, pause, and tune into yourself.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

(1:45) Why traditional vision boards don't work
(4:30) How writing a "100 List" will inspire the goals you put on your board
(13:05) The power of defining and declaring what you desire most
(18:05) The areas of your life you need to include on the board
(23:30) Why you should be celebrating along the way
(28:55) My one rule for the goals you put on your board
(34:50) What it looks like to come from a place of "being"
(41:35) Why you need support from mentors and loved ones

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Supporting Resources

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

090: How to Prioritize Your Profit Jun 10, 2024

Show notes

In the world of interior design, design firm principals are constantly juggling a million and one tasks. From design discovery to client onboarding, floor plans to renderings, networking to social media, project management to client care, you do it all. Let's face it, you're wearing upwards of 36 hats at any one time, and it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and under-earning. And that leaves less time and energy for the activities that bring you real profit.

EARN MORE WHILE DOING WHAT YOU LOVE

You started your business to make money, doing what you love…design. Many designers are so bogged down with low-dollar tasks, that their finances and creativity both take a hit. If you want to increase your profit and engage in the work you love doing, then you must start focusing your efforts on the right activities. I remind my clients, "Where your focus goes, your finances flow."

In today's episode, you'll learn how to distinguish between high-dollar and low-dollar tasks, so you can prioritize activities that directly contribute to your profit. While low-dollar tasks are necessary activities within your business that must be completed, they are not a priority. As a designer and business owner, you should focus on tasks that impact your bottom line and require higher levels of expertise and skill.

The categories here can make it simpler: lead generation and marketing, SEO and visibility, sales and offers, creative work, project management, communication, and admin.

LEARN TO DOLLARIZE YOUR DAY FOR MORE PROFIT

Discover which activities you should prioritize and which you should outsource when it comes to administrative tasks, marketing and advertising, sales, creative work, and more. You only have a finite amount of time. Knowing where your time is going each day will make a big difference. Let's find out where you're spending your time, so we can make you more money!

You'll learn how to dollarize your days, so you earn more in every activity. And you can delegate low dollar tasks. Your time as principal designer, Creative Director, or CEO is best invested in $1k tasks vs. the many $100 and $10 that can be delegated to team or outsourcing online.

DELEGATE TO INCREASE PROFITS & AVOID BURNOUT

When you stay focused on your Zone of Genius work at least 80% of the time, you'll find yourself more productive, more fulfilled and more profitable. It's vital that you relinquish the idea that you must do it all yourself. This is a myth and a costly one.

Instead, when you assign a dollar value to each task, you'll find that by delegating what you aren't efficient at, what you don't love, and what isn't impacting the bottom line directly, that more gets done and you step out of sacrifice and off the burn out path.

Your firm will earn more with the right team in place. Whenever you can outsource or delegate to someone who is a fraction of your hourly rate (internal use only, you know I advocate flat fees) you get time back for the actions that matter most.

To find out how you can effectively grow your design business, BOOK-A-CALL here, it's complementary and a way to explore the fit, as well as create your plan.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

(3:00) The difference between high-dollar and low-dollar tasks.
(4:20) Which aspects of social media are high-dollar versus low-dollar.
(7:10) What high-dollar marketing looks like.
(13:33) How to change your money mindset.
(15:30) What high-dollar creative work and low-dollar creative work entail.
(19:40) The value in finding a good stylist.
(24:00) How to dollarize your calendar.
(28:05) How to completely transform your business.

MENTIONED:

Episode 081: The Four Steps to Landing Every Project (Design Discovery Process)

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For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

089: How To Prepare For MORE Profit Jun 03, 2024

Show notes

Working in design, we know how important a living space can be for our clients' well-being. We design entire rooms looking for ways to make our clients' lives easier, more efficient, and more beautiful. But, how often do we do the same for ourselves?

I'm not just talking about our curated office spaces. When was the last time you purged yourself of those old files, cleaned up your drive, and really took an inventory of your projects, resources, and client files? You might be surprised at how much what you hold onto is holding you back. I know this from experience–I have gone through my fair share of slow times in my business and I had to learn the hard way how my anxious reactions were not serving me.

Today, I'm sharing my hard-won tips to prepare for your future profits without getting sidetracked by anxiety. Learn how the energy you project can draw positive outcomes and why decluttering both your physical and digital spaces is essential for creativity and productivity. We'll also dive into practical tips for archiving old project materials and updating sample libraries to make room for fresh opportunities.

Discover how visual clutter can stifle your creativity and get actionable strategies to foster a workspace that not only looks good but feels inviting and energizing. Let's tackle those fears that you're holding onto and stop them from holding you back!

In this episode, you will hear:

Opportunities for decluttering to create an environment that fosters confidence and positivity
Strategies for managing fluctuating demands using tools like whiteboards and Google Calendar to track projects
Tips on maintaining a visually organized workspace that fuels your own creativity
The correlation between the depth of client relationships and the height of business revenue

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Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

088: 5 Ways To Beat Overwhelm May 27, 2024

Show notes

Feeling like you're constantly chasing your tail in your design practice? I know I've been there—drowning in emails, juggling multiple tasks, and never quite feeling like I'm on solid ground. However, the most important thing to remember about overwhelm is that it is just your perspective on a moment in time. It does not have to be your reality. I've found a lifeline through simple, yet effective strategies to curb the chaos and I'm here to walk you through five key steps to take back control. From setting non-negotiable communication boundaries to the benefits of an organized, color-coded calendar, you'll say goodbye to the paralysis of overload and hello to the well-oiled machine that is your creative business.

Imagine your day compartmentalized into neat, color-coded blocks, each dedicated to a specific task—no more bouncing between tasks like a pinball. In this episode, I share the transformative power of time blocking using accessible tools like Google Calendar. You'll learn how to prioritize effectively with just an index card and why multitasking might actually be your kryptonite. Plus, I'll let you in on the secret to maintaining a sense of accomplishment and focus, cultivating control in your professional journey and personal life. Each segment of your day can be a stepping stone to building a thriving practice without feeling like you're constantly on the brink.

I've got some creative communication tactics up my sleeve that will endear you to your clients and keep them excited about the progress of their projects while still setting clear boundaries for your time. And for those who are ready to take their creative business to stratospheric levels, I'm rolling out the red carpet to the Go Beyond Intensive event in sunny Scottsdale. It's a chance to connect, learn, and grow with fellow designers who are all about embracing smart systems and a mindset that propels them forward. So tune in, get inspired, and let's journey together toward a design practice that nurtures your extraordinary life without the burnout.

In this episode, you will hear:

Strategies to eliminate overwhelm in your design practice
The importance of regular project updates and setting communication boundaries
Ways to use time-blocking tools like Google Calendar for productivity

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Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

087: Are You Using the F– Word In Your Business? May 20, 2024

Show notes

Free: what does it make you think of? A bargain? A steal? Now consider…are those concepts really the ideas you want your clients to associate with your brand? Whether we like it or not, words are loaded with associations and, starting now, this is one word I want you to avoid in your branding. Free does not encourage engagement or investment into your services. A complimentary gift, however, is priceless.

Let's talk about how the subtle art of offering 'complimentary' services, rather than 'free', not only upholds the value of your work but transforms the way clients see your business. In this episode, I'll share, from my own blunders and triumphs in the world of design, the transformative power of terminology in the services you offer. From the overlooked digital downloads that clutter our inboxes to the impactful strategy of nurturing client relationships with value-packed, complimentary offerings, you'll learn how to avoid diminishing your worth and instead, position your work as the generous gift it is.

Remember the last time a simple act of kindness turned a good day into a great one? That's the feeling you should be striving to recreate for clients with special, unexpected surprises that foster a sense of exclusivity and appreciation. We'll discuss how to weave this art of surprise into your design business, creating an exclusive client experience that not only fosters loyalty but also ignites word-of-mouth. Whether you're looking to refine your approach or seeking inspiration on how to enrich client interactions, join me as we redefine the standards of service and success in the creative industry.

In this episode, you will hear:

The difference between "complimentary" and "free"
The psychological effects of freebies and how they can lead to clutter and diminished appreciation of your services
Strategies for using complimentary offerings to enhance client relationships and maintain the integrity of your work's worth
The importance of surprise and thoughtful gestures in creating a memorable and loyal client base

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

086: Your Clients Aren't Qualified, Take the Lead May 13, 2024

Show notes

Ever felt lost in the maze of design decisions, wondering if you're making the right choices for your clients? As a designer, it is important to embrace your role as a navigator, steering your clients towards the beautiful and functional spaces they dream of. This episode is brimming with insights on how to assert your expertise from the get-go, ensuring your clients see you as not just a designer, but as a visionary leader. From the thrill of the discovery phase to confidently handling challenging proposals and redlines, I'll share the secrets to solidifying client relationships that thrive long after the last piece of furniture is placed.

The landscape of interior design is evolving, and staying ahead means adapting with grace and innovation. Today, I delve into the art of transforming spaces with detailed renderings that bring your vision to life, and the shift towards leveraging online resources. Discover how to set the stage for success with strategies that showcase your adaptability and meticulous planning. I'll also discuss the art of setting clear expectations through disclaimers, ensuring your designs are not only protected but poised for enhancement, with the vast selection of resources at our disposal.

In a world where choice can overwhelm, we can save our clients from the dreaded decision fatigue and keep their journey toward a perfect home enjoyable and stress-free. As your guide through these intricacies, I aim to empower you to maintain control, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve a harmonious final installation that reflects your vision as a creative expert. So, whether you're an emerging designer or a seasoned pro, join us in this conversation for insights that will help you lead your clients with confidence.

In this episode, you will hear:

Why you need to take the lead in the discovery process
How standing your ground in agreement negotiations can reinforce your expertise and pave the way to successful project completion
Ways to streamline your design process
Smart strategies that you can use to more effectively manage the delivery and placement of your clients' pieces

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

085: Mastering Client Testimonials, Referrals, and Photography to Propel Creative Business Success May 06, 2024

Show notes

Did you know that there are three actionable ways to guarantee every project that you take on will grow your business? Leveraging client testimonials, referrals, and photography are the best ways to use your prior successes to propel your future ones. Today, I'm deep-diving into each so that you can be more successful with every project you take on.

From the art of amplifying your brand's credibility using client testimonials to the value of top-notch photography, my tips will have you securing referrals that will blossom into your dream client list. You won't have to wonder where your next project will spring from because you'll have a steady stream of ideal clientele already dying to work with you.

Discover how to deepen client relationships with personalized touches, ensuring your work remains etched in their memory. I'll share methods for seeking referrals that reflect your past triumphs and set the stage for a thriving future filled with projects you adore. Prepare to elevate your presence in the industry with strategies that do more than just showcase your talent! Tune in today and let's ensure your client list is as curated and impactful as the work you put out into the world.

In this episode, you will hear:

How to deepen client relationships and leverage client testimonials effectively to enhance your brand's credibility
The significance of professional photography in showcasing projects to grow your client base
Techniques for acquiring client referrals that align with your desired project types and clientele
Strategies for getting your work published in both digital and print media

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Supporting Resources:

Testimonial Writing Service
How to Get Press, Amy Flurry
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

084: Build Your Business Around Travel & Thrive! Success Story with Megan Siason of M Studio Interior Design Apr 29, 2024

Show notes

What if I told you that at this time next year, you could be taking a client Zoom call while in Thailand, with another trip to Italy planned for the following month, all without missing a beat–or a profit–in your creative business? My special guest today, Megan Siason of M Studio Interior Design is here to prove that such a claim isn't a pipe dream, it can be your reality!

On this episode, we're revealing the ins and outs of Megan's innovative approach to building a flourishing design practice that doesn't just sustain but truly complements an adventurous lifestyle filled with travel. Discover how she's navigated the challenges of enhancing her rates and establishing systems that empower her to roam freely, while her remote team ensures the business thrives. As we unravel the fabric of digital innovation, Megan and I discuss how tools like Proposify and Dubsado have been game-changers in the design world, bringing client interactions into the modern age. This digital shift, partly propelled by the pandemic, has made it entirely possible to manage projects and teams from any corner of the globe–meaning that all those trips you've been putting off can finally be achieved without sacrificing any of your business' success. And, we'll share the art of seamless client communication across time zones, and how personal touches from your travels, like sending postcards to clients, can solidify professional relationships with your clients.

So, embark with us on an inspiring voyage through the realms of creative entrepreneurship. This episode is an invitation to reimagine your passion for design as a gateway to a well-traveled and joy-filled entrepreneurial life.

In this episode, you will hear:

Tips to find the balance between travel, play, and keeping clients happy and updated
Strategies for planning and scheduling client communication while traveling
The importance of open, clear communication with clients when traveling
Why discernment of clients and understanding your own value is the first step in opening your business to travel

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Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

083: Uncover the Home's Interior Potential (Design Discovery 3) Apr 22, 2024

Show notes

As we round out our tour of the design discovery process, it's time to explore the art of the home review report. In guiding you through the third installment of our design discovery series, I'll explore the art of conducting a thorough home review to assess the style and comfort of your new clients. Though this is a straightforward process, you must take the right steps to vet the project for compatibility and give your clients the security they need to agree to your vision enthusiastically.

Ensuring you're punctual and prepared to document every detail is just the start of this process. As we walk through the systematic approach to each room, I'll show you how to offer expert design recommendations that provide real value to your clients. These insights are then transformed into a comprehensive graphic report that serves as both a visual aid and a scope of work, setting the stage for a successful and collaborative design journey.

Throughout this episode, I share the ins and outs of creating design boards for client projects, highlighting the significance of inspiration platforms and the necessity of having a design assistant. You'll learn how to set project priorities, timelines, and budgets before moving to the contract phase, and discover how affirming these details with clients during report presentations can lead to a smoother transition into the design process. Finally, I'll share my strategies for balancing your client roster, ensuring a thriving design practice that doesn't sacrifice your well-being. Prepare to capture every nuance with precision, from the welcoming embrace of the foyer to the intimate corners of personal spaces. The home review isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's the cornerstone of a collaborative design process that promises to bring your client's dream to life.

In this episode, you will hear:

How to conduct a thorough home review to assess style and comfort.
The importance of creating robust visual reports as a tool for collaboration with clients
Tips for utilizing design boards and inspiration platforms like Pinterest to streamline the design discovery process and report
Strategies for managing a client roster to avoid burnout and maintain work-life balance

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

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