Why the focus on organization?

I've often wondered why people get into the work that they do. And when I find out why, it all makes sense. It usually ties back to a challenge that someone experienced in their own life, and then decided to provide support for people with similar challenges.

So here's why I'm so focused on organization, finding focus, and keeping our spaces optimized for success. 

1. I've moved homes 19 times in about 26 years and have occupied many types of dwellings. 

2. I've "lived in" about 13 classrooms in 23 years. 

I'm sure many of you can relate to moving, whether moving houses, offices or classrooms. And what is it that stresses you the most about moving? Is it the being in a new space? Or is it that you have to move all your stuff?

When you move this much, you have to be able to find peace in your space fast. It's far easier to move into a classroom and leave all the junk it from the previous five teachers, but it's not helpful or healthy for you or for the teacher after you to bear all the stress from what's hiding in those cupboards. I know they haunted me! 

Moving stuff requires huge amounts of time and energy, organization and money, and those are four things that often cause stress already! We don't have the time, energy, skills or the extra money to spend on moving things that may not even add much value to our lives. 

Prior to moving, it's a solid idea to do a purge as you pack, which is something I got pretty good at and find a lot of value in. Then I usually do another purge after moving and when unpacking. Sometimes those things I thought I "needed" in the new space end up not suiting the space, my needs or vision.

The point here is not to rid yourself of all things, or even bare down to the absolute essentials. That's not reasonable. But do think about what causes you unnecessary and unproductive stress, and what adds real value to what you do and your life in general. It may make your life easier in the long run.