Disorganization is not the problem; it is a symptom of something bigger going on in our lives. It is a disconnect between what we think is important to us (family, friends, health) and what is currently important to us (our stuff, not expending energy).
When something is important to us, we make room for it in our lives. We carve out time and space. We protect that thing by making sure nothing encroaches on it or robs time spent on it.
For example, if we say our children are important to us, then we make sure they have a safe, sanitary place to play. We make sure they have clean clothes to wear, in a place they can find. We create a spot for them to do homework, and we cook them a nutritious dinner each night.
What does that have to do with being organized? In order for them to have a safe, sanitary place to play, you have to clear space for them and keep it picked up. You have to vacuum or wipe it up frequently. You have to sort through the toys regularly to make sure they are age-appropriate and not broken. If the space is disorganized, they cannot play very well.
In order for them to have clean clothes to wear, in a place they can find, you have to do laundry regularly. You have to fold the clothes and put them back in their room consistently.
I think you get the picture. You keep the children’s spaces organized because you care about the children, you devote time and energy to them, which means devoting time and energy to their spaces.
When we are disorganized, our priorities get neglected in favor of other things. We are out of alignment with what is truly in our hearts. Ouch.
What do your actions say about what is really a priority in your life?
