Virtual Zen

How to Get a Logo for $25

Do you like my new Virtual Zen logo?

Do you think it was worth $25?

I do!  I first read about an organization called GotLogos on Virtualosophy and I was intrigued by the concept of getting an originally-designed logo for only $25. At GotLogos, they specialize in domain logos so I thought it was worth giving them a try. I filled out the information, paid my $25, waited a week, and my logo was delivered to my email box yesterday afternoon (one day earlier than promised). I really like it, though I admit, at first I wasn't sure and I needed to let it grow on me for a bit.  The designers really didn't have anything to go on other than my URL and tag line. Strange thing is that somehow they manged to pick the exact colors of my personal journal - once I made that connection I realized that I had to keep it - it was meant to be! The downside is that they only give you one version (you can pay for revisions). Still, if you're looking for an inexpensive logo it's worth checking them out!

The Shorter To-Do Gets it Done

This morning I was feeling very frazzled by the amount of things I need to get done in the next couple weeks -- summer obligations with kids, planning for a family get-together for my husband's family at our home, trying to help my teenager find a job -- all while continuing to work on developing my new business (shameless plug) and complete my virtual assistance training. So much so, that the thought of everything that needed to get done was draining me and keeping from getting anything done.  My ever-growing, to-list in the notebook on my desk can be daunting at times.

Then common sense took over and I had a Zen moment: I need a shorter to-do list!  I made a revised list of just those items that NEED to get done today and for which I actually have enough time to finish. It worked! By 2:00 I had everything done on my list, I felt much more accomplished and relaxed, and even had the time to write this post. Sometimes the simplest solutions work the best.

Everyone Starts Somewhere!

Welcome to my blog, Virtual-Zen!

I've been thinking about starting a blog for a long time. I've been reading about it; I've been talking about it. Today I decided to jump in and give it a try.  Am I ready for this? I don't know.  Is anyone really ever ready to take a chance and try something new? Sometimes you just have to get started and let things evolve. Over the past several months I have been going through a transformation of sorts - both personally and professionally. From deciding to start my own business as a Virtual Assistant, to deciding to really take charge of my life and take some risks to find my authentic self. Right now I feel empowered and ready to put myself out there.

As I continue to learn and grow, I hope to pass along tips, tidbits and "Zen Moments" to help others work smarter and live better. For example, today as I muddled through the process of domain mapping and found myself faced with the task of designing the look of my blog, I started to feel very overwhelmed and foggy - I needed to step away and regroup. And then it came to me --

Zen Moment:  Take a walk! Through nature comes clarity.
This morning when I felt like my brain was going to seize up on me, I strapped on my iPod, tuned in some energizing 80's music, and took a brisk walk around the neighborhood. The warm sun and cool breeze did wonders for my point of view, and here I am, ready to take on the challenge of writing my very first blog post. So here it is - I'm going to get brave now and hit the "publish post" button. :-)

I hope you'll come back again next time I post, and that my thoughts, ideas, and perspectives will touch you on some level. Thanks for reading!