As seen in the Dayton Daily News on February 13, 2016.
I’ve noticed that people who are recently divorced talk about how they are going to move forward. They often bring up all kinds of self-improvements they plan to do.
Some people buy gym memberships to start getting fit. They talk about how they can’t wait for the day their ex-spouse sees them with their new bodies.
Others are making dental appointments to get their teeth straightened or whitened.
Some of them even race through the mall snatching up new undergarments and negligees.
As I listen to their new intentions without judgment, I often think, “Why does a negative event have to happen for people to make changes that are going to benefit them personally?”
As with divorce, people often wait for something bad to happen before they start the organizing process.
I often work with people when they are stressed, depressed or grieving because they waited until they were forced to organize.
It could be in the workplace. Their boss is upset because their work area is cluttered. As a result, deadlines are not being met and things are being lost.
Perhaps their spouse is upset because their everyday life is being affected by too many things in their home.
They’re forced to downsize because of a job loss, death of a loved one or declining health.
You can’t prepare for every emergency, but why not take control of what you can? Being proactive and organizing now, while you’re not rushed, will allow you to think clearly and make good decisions.
Organize your office now, if your boss has mentioned the need for organization. Your productivity will improve along with your relationships with your co-workers.
When you’re ready to start a family, your focus is going to change. Start getting rid of your old trophies, college textbooks and other items that may keep your from having a comfortable home that’s easy to clean.
If you’re a senior and planning to downsize to a retirement community someday, why not start letting go of things you don’t use now while you’re healthy?
You’ll benefit immediately by having fewer items to take care of, and will have a chance to see your loved ones enjoy your castoffs. In the event that something happens to you first, your family will thank you for not leaving tons of unnecessary stuff for them to go through during a difficult time.
When I have helped people get organized during their crisis, I often hear, “I really wish I would have done this sooner. If I had not waited, my life would have been enriched in so many ways.”
Start organizing today before life makes you do so.