Monday, October 27, 2008

My New Mantra

Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Don't put it down put it away
Should I put it down? No! Put it Away!!


My mom has said my whole life that I leave a trail wherever I go. This isn't intentional laziness. I was never intentionally inconsiderate for the person who would have to pick up after me. I just never ever ever never realize that I do this. When I leave the living room to go to the kitchen I don't look behind me to see what else I could bring. This kind of innate organization doesn't come naturally to me.


This poses a challenge because disorganization and messiness can make me feel depressed. I feel most joy and satisfaction in a beautiful and functional home. I will work SO HARD to clean my entire house only to have it looking a shambles the very next day, or even after supper on the same day.

I first heard "Don't put it down, put it away" while listening to this series online. I will often listen to sermons or books on tape while I go about my daily doings. It really resonated with me. I started thinking - so that's how people can clean their homes and just 'spot treat' the rest of the week? So that's how I can avoid piles of stuff on my desk? So that's how I can keep the house comfortable for a surprise visitor?


Do any of you have a saying/mantra that keeps you motivated? All this to say, next time you see me - please, remind me: Don't Put It Down, PUT IT AWAY!

3 comments:

~Bren~ said...

My cheeks hurt from grinning so hard while reading your post! You and I both struggle in this area. I work hard at being organized and keeping a tidy home also. There was never a time when it was more of a struggle as when I had babies. I am cheering you on with your mantra and your goals to be able to keep it tidy, but give yourself a little slack. Having a baby to cuddle and coo at (believe me, I get nothing done when Emerson is here) is time well spent. I am not saying you should let your house go...just don't be so hard on yourself. Look forward to the day you can delegate!!!!

Johannah said...

Ness,
Some of my mantras:
Bigger Picture. Bigger Picture. Bigger Picture. {When I need some perspective.}
And:
What's most important? Prioritize. Prioritize. Prioritize. {Also about perspective.}
I lose perspective so often.

Susanna Rose said...

Hmmm...let me see. I guess I often think in my head: Keep calm, keep calm, keep calm when Micah is acting up, especially when we're out in public!:)