So this just happened:

I was booked to give a Feng Shui presentation to a group of top real estate agents, and I wanted to get new business cards printed before the event.

But I didn’t have a lot of time, so I went with an online printer promising “overnight delivery.” I paid up for their rush service and looked forward to getting the cards in plenty of time for the event…
You know what comes next, right? 🙄

First of all, the cards didn’t arrive overnight – they came three days late. So much for having them on time for my presentation (Luckily the talk went great, and I was able to use my old business cards.)

But to add insult to injury, when the belated cards finally arrived, I discovered one of the most slapdash, horrible print jobs I’ve seen in my entire life. Splotchy color, uneven shapes, frayed edges…an overall ugly mess.

Thankfully, they were willing to refund me for the cards, but I took the lesson:

Rushing leads to mistakes

When you rush something, be prepared to have to do it over again. Rushing anything often costs more in time and money than just giving it the space it needs on the first go round.

If I had planned things a little further in advance, I could’ve gone to a local printer I trust, and even gotten a few sample cards ahead of time to make sure I was going to be happy with the final product.

The same is true with your plans for home improvement. If you’re thinking of making some changes to your space, and you take a little time to get your ducks in a row before you act, you’ll see that your project can go easier and faster, with better results.

In addition, we’re in a mercury retrograde, so it’s especially important to take things a little slower (this astrological period runs from Feb 16 – March 9).

Taking important actions in a Mercury retrograde is much like using my “overnight” printing service – it will likely result in something that will have to be redone later. Trust me, don’t waste your time, energy and money.

What is a mercury retrograde perfect for? Doing research, gathering information, and making plans so you’re ready to move forward when the time is right.

Here are 3 tips that I recommend you do right now to keep your home projects moving in the right direction:

1. Get Inspired:

Houzz.com is a hub of gorgeous home photos that can open your mind to possibilities for your home that you hadn’t thought of before. It’s one of my first stops when starting a new design project, giving me a boost of creative energy that sends me off to create my interior designs. You can start a folder for each room of your house and load up great pics that get the creative juices flowing.

2. Get into conversation:

Start talking to possible contractors, designers, or other key specialists who could help you with your project. You can discuss how they work, their fees, schedule, even get their advice. Just don’t sign any contracts or start projects until after the mercury retrograde (March 11 is a good date to launch). You’ll be glad you waited, as things will go much smoother.

3. Get the Good Energy flowing:

I’m sorry to make the sales plug, but It’s absolutely true… getting a Feng Shui home consultation is a wildly beneficial thing to do during this period. It’s an advanced energy reading of your space that shows you where the stronger and weaker energies are in your home, and exactly how to remedy the weak spots and maximize the good zones. This is important info to know before you make decisions about repainting, renovating, and especially planning a new layout or building a new home.

I’ve had too many clients contact me after they bought the new house, or after they received their architect’s drawings, asking me for advice. While I can help them to a point, it is much more beneficial to start your project with a Feng Shui reading, rather than use Feng Shui to fix your home’s issues after the fact. It can save you time, money and unnecessary headaches.

Just remember, there’s no need to rush anything right now. In fact, if you take things slow and steady, before you know it you’ll be moving at full speed with more clarity, inspiration and energy to achieve your goals.

As for me, for now I’m sticking with my old business cards until after the mercury retrograde – better safe than sorry. 😉

Wishing you a home full of beauty, light, inspiration and joy!

Warmly,
Reiko

PS: Each week I post a video with my latest Feng Shui tips. Stop by my FB page to check it out.