The depth of organization
Most of us don’t recognize our own methods of organization. The spices are mostly in the same place in the kitchen. The pillows on the bed are piled on top of the mattress. Even the clothes in the closet are there so that they can be found. It is easy to beat ourselves up about our lack of organization even when we have already decided on a way that works.
Could my organization skills improve?
Probably. But only if I wanted them to. That would require a thought that prompts action. The thought that prompts the action might come from a negative experience, a new book on organization or some impressive pictures on social media. They are just motivation. The real question is what prompts the actually doing of the thought.
Pick a spot, any spot
Improvement starts best on a small scale. It isn’t prudent to overdo the whole house because overwhelm would enter the picture so quickly and stop all progress. But tiny percentages of improvement work. Your hair might grow a miniscule amount every day, but eventually you will want a hair cut. It might not style just right or it might just “feel” like it is time. We know this stuff. Organization can work like that.
Watch for the signs
Out of the blue, you are staring at your bracelets one day, wondering how you got so many and why you don’t wear some of them anymore. Your brain is telling you that it is time. Yes, that little subconscious part of you that loves you the most is giving you a giant hint. Just take them all out and sort until you decide what to save. You will discover ones that you forgot you even had and love them all over again. Thanks, brain.
Tap in to you
The activity of really listening to yourself is essential to hear what you are trying to tell yourself. It will not all be words of wisdom and sometimes I laugh out loud at my own thoughts. They mean well but are baloney. But I have improved at watching out for those little moments of quiet that reveal a message. The trick is not to ignore them. That whisper from your brain is actually you screaming at yourself.
Start now
Look for your own answers. They are there already but you just were too busy to see them or notice the thought. Becoming intimate with your own mind will startle you at first but getting to know those thoughtful parts of you will help you fall in love with yourself all over again. Remaining open and quiet helps. Being ultra mindful of your customary movements can make you wonder why you do things the way you do.
Jumpstart your own reorganization sequence. One activity will lead to another naturally and you won’t even notice the effort. This week, look longingly at the small spaces in your world. Could those pens need some attention? Do you keep your linens so easy to reach that they are a pleasure to gaze at? Will a five minute purge of old spices make me want to cook with some new discoveries?