Are you perfect? I’m not.
Perfectionism holds too many back from organizing their spaces. They wait until they can do it perfectly, and that day never comes. So, let’s get real about this perfectionism thing:
The Un-Perfect Confessions of an Organizer
We’ve all got a little chaos in our lives, including yours truly. Yep, and I have chosen to be a Professional Organizer. Why? Because I feel that having piles of less-than-useful things suck energy from my brain and spiritual well-being.
So, several years ago, I decided to do something about it. I had stuff laying around, and it wasn’t pretty. Things I didn’t need, things people gave me that never were used, things I was hanging onto for other people, and things that just took up space.
It was a drain.
So, I decided to do something about it, one small step at a time.
Change Takes Time
It took a good three years – yes, YEARS, to get overall improvement. It took a daily decision and determination to change small habits. Some of it was mind-numbing, and some of it was downright liberating.
I was not born with an “organizing gene” (although I must confess that I have always been a “re-arranger”). It’s a skill, and can be developed over time.
Organized = Finding Most Anything in About 5 Minutes or Less
So, what’s the point of organization?
To find things? To know where your stuff is? To know that when you need something you can find it?
“Organized” equals the ability to find most anything you need in 5 minutes or less.
It also has the fantastic benefit of increased peace of mind: not arguing with your significant other about where the keys are, sleeping peacefully in your bed without piles of clothes, or paying the electric bill before it’s due.
Being organized doesn’t mean you have to have color-coded cabinets or files, have everything (including the dog) labeled, and forgo your work to keep everything spotless. What it DOES mean is some semblance of order that makes sense for you and your life. And that means a daily decision to keep things in working order.
Small Changes Over Time = Big Change
Small changes and actions everyday lead to big time change. Do what works for you. If that means color-coding, by all means, go for it! But a simple file will work if you use it correctly with good habits and the right mindset.
Don’t try to live up to perfection, because that only leads to disappointment and paralyzing procrastination.
So, put your excuses aside and have some hope. Your home doesn’t have to be magazine-ready, just workable for you.
What small step can you make today to get over your perfectionism? Share with us in the comments below!
