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November 29, 2011
 It seems as if there is never enough time in the day to get everything done on your list. Whether it’s simply paying bills or finishing up a project at work, things somehow rarely go according to plan and issues tend to pop up along the way. Being efficient with your time and getting things done faster are key to being able to manage all of the professional and personal things that fill up your to do list.
I am always looking for tools or methods that help me get things done faster. Whether that means automating a task or devising a completely new way to accomplish something, there are many different ways to get things done in a shorter amount of time.
Here are our Top 10 tips on how to get things done faster and enjoy the things in life that you are truly passionate about. Because let’s face it, our careers do not define us and having a life outside the office gives us a much needed balance to stay driven and focused for the long term.
- Automate whenever possible. Whether it’s something like bill pay, using a DVR or email auto-responders for your business, automating activities that are ongoing will help free up your time for things that require a bit more brain capacity.
- Use Productivity Apps that sync with all of your devices. Some examples could be apps like Wunderlist, Evernote, Cloud App and Instapaper. The key is having these apps on all of your devices and sync’d so that no matter if you have your tablet, laptop or just your cell phone you can access them at anytime.
- Use sites that aggregate content. Sites like Kayak.com are wonderful because Kayak aggregates information from travel sites like Expedia and Hotwire but also from airlines directly as well. So instead of having to visit 5-10 different sites to compare pricing, flight times, connecting flights and so forth you can simply use Kayak.com to compare side by side in a matter of seconds. When shopping for apparel and shoes online use Shopstyle.com which aggregates products from hundreds to thousands of retailers and boutiques all in one place.
- Delegate. As much as some of us hate to relinquish control over things at times delegating is a life saver. Repetitive, simple and tedious tasks can often get in the way of getting more complicated and important things done. If you manage others delegating out tasks and responsibilities can help you stay focused on the things that matter most for your business or career objectives.
- Use a Virtual Assistant (VA) service. Sites like Vworker.com help you find assistants to help you manage your tasks and schedule. If you are a busy executive or run your own business then having a VA is vital to ensuring things are running smoothly and that the little things are getting done.
- Rely on Experts. Have you ever felt like you know enough about a subject matter to get a project started but then suddenly stall because you don’t have enough expertise to problem solve or move forward with a clear directive? Why not rely on experts for projects or ventures that have the scope and size that would be better suited for an expert in a particular field. Sure, costs are always a consideration but when you weigh pros and cons, not to mention the time if will save it’s hard to ignore the option of bringing in experts to do the job.
- Eliminate distractions. This sounds very simple but of course we all know how difficult this can be. So, to really assess what distractions you have at the office or at home take a hard and honest look at what your distractions are and how much time you are wasting because of each one.
- Set boundaries and rules for yourself. This could be things like only checking email twice each day or turning off the cell phone completely when you have a deadline looming on a critical project. Little things to add up and in totality can hinder our ability to accomplish the objectives that are the most important. Ask yourself, do this activity help me towards achieving my goals and tasks for today? If not maybe consider limiting or stopping those activities all together.
- Think in terms of quadrants. Remember Stephen Covey and the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People anyone? Prioritization is something that helps you focus on more urgent and important items and reduce the amount of time you spend on unimportant and non-urgent issues. There are many things that we need to capture in terms of ensuring it gets done but in terms of priority can be downgraded.
- Get enough sleep. It is easy to get caught up in your career or business and neglect things like sleep, exercise and downtime. However, try getting 7 to 8 hours sleep one night and see just how much more productive and more mentally engaged you are the next day. Seriously!
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“Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Samsung via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Samsung.”
November 28, 2011
November 27, 2011
I woke up to a “today’s special value” from QVC on TV this morning that I simply couldn’t miss out on – Keurig Platinum Plus Series Brewer w/ 62 K-Cups& My K-Cup for $149.95 $181.50. Just in time for a new coffee maker that I so desperately needed! What I really like about this latest Keurig brewer is the hot water on demand and the new hot water rinse features. Along with a quite brewing technology, made to fit a 12 oz travel mug, etc.
Also, this special set includes a My K-Cup to use any coffee grounds (a big bonus!) plus 62 K-Cups for you to enjoy. If you need a new, better coffee machine and want each and every cup to be fresh, try this on sale which is good for only today – one more reason to get it now! Available in Cinnamon, Platinum, and Black. I chose the platinum to go with our kitchen appliances. QVC also offers easy payment options.
November 26, 2011
There is always room for a new blazer in my closet. Being highly versatile, blazers are easily the go-to topper anytime I want to pull an outfit together.
I came across this fabulous pink blazer a few days ago while browsing through the LC Lauren Conrad collection at Kohl’s. Don’t let the word pink fool you, the color is dark pink (more like a pink beige) which makes it quite wearable.
Its unique color and the chic styling instantly garnered my attention. And as soon as I tried on the blazer, I knew it wasn’t going back on the rack. Although the blazer is in boyfriend style, it doesn’t look at all like it came straight out of your boyfriend’s closet – not frumpy or boxy.
Another feature I love about this topper is the ruched sleeves that give it a rolled-up-sleeves look. Also, the sleek fitting reminds me of this particular blazer (with the exception of the sleeves) that I have been lusting after. So I was more than happy to have found this especially at the sale price of $49 $70, a fashion steal indeed.
Try to pair a pink blazer over a dress to the office or with a cozy scarf and sweater in cooler weather. Its timeless style will make rounds in your wardrobe for years to come.
You’ll liven up any black & neutral basic – black tee, pencil skirt, black booties by topping it off with a colorful blazer. A pink blazer like this one will give you a feminine yet sophisticated look.
November 25, 2011
November 22, 2011
Double breasted coats are a cold-weather wardrobe staple. Warm and elegant, they are the perfect outerwear to pull an entire outfit together. Here are three outfits to keep you cozy and stylish all day at work. Button up for a tailored silhouette or wear open for more relaxed look.
Coat, V-Neck Pullover, Stretch Twill Pants
Coat, Tweed Dress, Mary Jane Pumps
Coat, Tie Blouse, Pencil Skirt
November 20, 2011
In the world of fashion, bigger is often better and bolder is often best. Why not incorporate the latest trends into your work wardrobe especially those who enjoy flashy styles?
Fashion loves extravagance and decadence, and with celebrity icons such as Lady Gaga and Rihanna constantly pushing the boat out with their unique and innovative style the pressure is on for the rest of us to be daring. Having fun with colors, textures and unusual designs can be a lot of fun, but there are some essential dos and don’ts when you’re going for a bold look.
Firstly, colors are always important and should never be overlooked or seen as secondary. Although you might want to make a big impression, choosing colors that don’t go together will just make you look silly. You either want colors that clash (in a good way!) or you need to make sure that one color complements the other. You should also be cautious when combining bold prints such as a leopard-print top with a floral skirt. Items of print clothing should be paired with items of block color you can achieve a bold and outlandish look without looking like you got dressed in the dark!
Secondly, if you’re going to go with a daring piece of clothing then make sure you know how to wear it right. Some of the most hideous trends of the past have come back into fashion with a vengeance – jumpsuits, for example, are back on trend but they have to be the right style and worn in the right way in order to work. You don’t want to look like an aerobics instructor, or as if you’re about to jump out of a plane! Do your research to see what’s in and what’s out, and see how your favorite celebrities or other style icons are wearing a piece before you attempt it yourself.
A great way to find bold and colorful clothes is to shop online, where you can browse through hundreds of different items quickly and easily. Scandinavian retailer Ellos has recently launched a UK website, www.ellos.co.uk, with many sophisticated items of clothing that perfectly utilize the latest trends. Why not check out the dresses and skirts by Ellos which are going down a storm this season. Ellos offers really minimalist, simplistic fashion, which work well in the workplace, as well as out.
photo credit: style.com
November 17, 2011
There is absolutely no reason not to enjoy leopard print at work. The key to wearing leopard print is to stick with one key piece at a time. Create a chic ensemble by keeping the rest of the outfit simple especially when wearing to the office – it’s easier to pull off than you think! Add the right touch of glamour to your office ensemble with these bold yet elegant leopard-print pencil skirts.
left, center, right
The business-glam look made easy with a leopard skirt, red blouse, knit jacket, structured satchel, and T-strap pumps. A splash of red (in this case it’s a buttoned blouse) goes fantastic with leopard prints while the rest of the black makes the overall look polished.
If you are still not sure about leopard prints, you can always start with accessories such as leopard-print scarves to complement your outfit. Accessories are a great way to ease into a trend or new style you are not completely sold on or comfortable with in terms of your comfort zone.
November 14, 2011
The winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway is Amy Hurwitz!
Congratulations Amy and you’ll be contacted shortly so that you can claim your Truman dress!
The winner has 72hrs to respond or another winner will be chosen.
 Whether you are looking for a dress for a special occasion or you are in need of a new dress for the office, there are more than enough to choose from at Shabby Apple. This online boutique has you covered when it comes to finding chic women’s dresses. We are especially smitten with the whimsical photos on the site featuring their lovely vintage dresses.
As the holidays are approaching fast, WorkChic has partnered with Shabby Apple to giveaway a dress to one of our WorkChic readers. An early Xmas gift from us to you!
Below are ten amazing dresses to consider, one of which the winner will be allowed to choose from. We are seriously swooned by the Bacciami! dress. The color and silhouette is entirely gorgeous. Now, tell us dear… which dress makes your heart flutter the most? Click on the links to see each beauty in more detail.
Beverly Hills, Block Party
Peru, Truman
Bacciami!, Veni Vidi Vici
Academia, Sierra Nevada
Champs Elysees, Aloha
Meanwhile, use coupon code workchic10off at checkout to get 10% off your purchase (including sale items)! Be sure to take advantage of this special offer before it ends – good for the next 30 days starting today.
To Win the Dress:
Like Shabby Apple on Facebook, follow WorkChic on Twitter, and finally tell us you did so here on our Facebook page along with mentioning your favorite dress from above. It’s that simple! Feel free to share how and where you would wear the dress.
The giveaway will run from Nov. 14th to Nov. 21st. The winner will be chosen at random and will be announced on Nov. 22nd. The winner has 72 hours to respond (please contact us via email info{at}workchic.com) once the announcement has been made, or a new winner will be chosen.
November 12, 2011
Wearing fur to work? There is nothing wrong with adding a little drama to your usual workwear. Blazers take up more than their fair share of your professional wardrobe, now it’s time to break out the fur to combat the chill in style! Fur outerwear isn’t just for fancy outings anymore but rather consider it along the lines of your best friend.
Let’s take style ques from the Fall 2011 designer collections featuring various fur fashion to sneak into your work wardrobe. Keep in mind that there are more reasons to prefer fake over real when it comes to fur – faux sure!
Fur collared coats or cardigans are your best bet to pull off at the office. The clean line and knee-length silhouette creates an elegant look.
Another easy-to-wear fur topper is a fur vest. This basic black fur vest will look great over a turtleneck & trousers. Go for ones in a similar color tone to bring it all together. It can be layered under a jacket for extra warmth.
If you are worried about donning fur outerwear all together, fear not – slip on this super cozy faux fur scarf to jazz up your whole outfit. How about a chic blazer with a removable faux fur collar?
(continue reading this article…)
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