Repetition is a strategy that successful people use to master many challenging tasks. An artist or composer may use variations of a single theme to please the viewer of the artwork or listener of the music.
Repetition can be boring or interesting depending on the frequency of the repeated theme or statement. Visually, repetition can bring a rhythm that is pleasing to the eye and easy for the mind to process. Frequently shoppers are pulled into the artful retail display of many similar objects and make an impulse purchase. The variations of color within a single theme such as notebooks may cause displeasure with "just one" item and propel the buyer to select one in every color!
As professional organizers, we help people separate the artful repetition from the non-productive repetition in work areas and living spaces. On a personal note, I do not need three calculators, but my five-vase holder is splendid for summer blooms.
What repetition works for you and what repetition gets in the way of a better life for you? I would like to hear your thoughts!





Ellen -
Well stated! In addition to physical placement, repetition is a successful practice for those that are working on new habits in their lives. Repetition is how I have learned many activites that I want to incorporate into my business and personal life. Some think that you should be able to write down a new process and instantly know it. However, it just does not work that way for most people. (Much to my son's dismay as I had him write down his spelling words 10 times each today to get ready for his spelling test!) It is not always fun, but it works.
To your success!
Stephanie
Posted by: Stephanie LH Calahan aka @StephCalahan | September 15, 2009 at 09:45 PM
Great example of repetition with the spelling words, Stephanie. Thanks for sharing your insight.
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Posted by: Ellen Hankes | September 16, 2009 at 10:19 AM