Welcome to the Vacuum

The time between Christmas and the New Year is something I like to call the vacuum. It’s really the only time of year when phone calls are sparse, email calms down a bit and the amount of responsibility tends to be a bit lower. A lot of people have vacation around this time that spans the week. Not all, I realize.

Since my parents live only an hour away, I go home for the annual White Christmas and hang out there for a few days before heading back, leaving me with around 4 days to do what I want. The vacuum. I started using this little time period a few years ago to relax a bit, think about some new projects, anticipate the new year and tinker around with some fun little designs I’ve wanted to do for a while. I stay up late, listen to music, and fire around some graphics.

This year is a bit different. I spent the last 2 days breaking in my new iPad which I’ve lovingly named Yeti. I want my iPad to solve problems in my workflow and general communication, so I’ve been using it to do research on creative flow, idea generating, brand focus and all kinds of nuts and bolts stuff. Reading Seth Godin’s Blog has been a huge help. In short, lots of note-taking.

I found it difficult during 2011 to keep up with everything. My email inbox is a damn mess and has been for months, resulting in missed opportunities and delays which I’m not happy about. Huge problem. Recognizing that weakness, I’m focusing most of my energy on a remedy or rhythm. Something that will use my time better

Welcome to the vacuum, everyone. Hope your holidays have been going well.