Here we are mid-summer. If you are like me, you may be starting to feel the “lack-of-routine-blues.” Maybe household chores are lagging behind, maybe your desk has unusually tall stacks of paper waiting for filing, or maybe your meals or sleep routines are not what you prefer. As much as I look forward to and enjoy the change of pace in the summer, now is the time I begin to crave a little more order and routine.

I am a believer, however, in being organized enough. And, I believe everyone is allowed to choose, along with their families or house-mates, how organized that is. This is also where I add that I am convinced that “being organized” is a tool for creating the life you want–not a goal in and of itself.

That being said, it makes sense that this tool will be used in different ways at different times and seasons. When you are going through a time of huge transition, having certain organization systems in place can bring a sense of calm and a reminder of stability. However,  allowing yourself to let down on those systems for a short time can also be a “vacation” in a way, for your energies to focus elsewhere.

If you are in a life transition or crisis, I believe you might want to consider giving yourself a break. Consider what REALLY MATTERS to you at that moment. Is it really going to matter if the floor doesn’t get vacuumed for a day or two while you focus on a relationship in need? Maybe it does for you–maybe it does not. Maybe continuing with the routine is just what will ground you to get through the event. Maybe letting it go for a short time will free you to deal with it.

My thought here is that it may be different for everyone–and that everyone has the choice for themselves. Don’t allow anyone else to “should” on you–and don’t “should” on them. The one thing can can never be taken from us is our right to choose our attitude–to choose our mind-set.

So, if you are feeling overwhelmed in any part of your life, might I suggest you ask yourself these questions:

1. What part of the problem am I?
2. What are the needs and wants of those I love?
3. What do I want most out of this experience?
4. What is the most important thing I can do right now to have the biggest impact? (Thank you, Matt Townsend!)

The answers to these questions are yours alone. They will change in every situation. And, the answers will help you know for yourself what direction you want to take.

So–for this moment. Are you organized enough? Would being more organized help you? I’d love to hear your thoughts on my ramblings! Have a peaceful day!

**The four questions above are cited from

Matt Townsend’s book,

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