Ellen Hankes

The Other Side of Organized

One of the hallmark characteristics of chronic disorganization is the multiple, and yet unsuccessful, self-attempts to get organized. WIth my specialty of helping the chronically disorganized individual improve their quality of life through organization, I often find these clients have an extensive (and enviable) library of how-to-organize books. If you are chronically disorganized, or work or live with someone who is organizationally challenged, you will want to read The Other Side of Organized: Finding Balance Between Chaos and Perfection (Oh, so Publishing, 2009) by Linda  Samuels, CPO-CD©. It is a slim book of wisdomm presented in brief topics which lead the reader into a self-introspection of one's relationship to things.

While the animal-lover will enjoy the connection to the cartoons featuring the author's beloved black lab, Norton, the strength of Ms. Samuels' book is the underlying multiple reminders of the rewards of organization. When you read about perfect spring days, connecting with your loved ones, rejuvenation and self-care, you will better understand what Ms. Samuels refers to as the other side of being organized.

With acknowledgment that change comes only when people are ready to change, Samuels devotes an entire chapter to helping the reader understand the change process. The chapter on change will be valuable not only for the chronically disorganized but also for those who love them, work with them and live with them. Samuels sums up change in the following way:

When people are ready they change. Their initiative and desire must come from within. When the pain to stay the same becomes greater than the fear of the unknown, change occurs.

Included is the caveat that change is a forward as well as a backward process. You will read about the five phases of change which include Initial Rumblings, Identifying Possibilities, Reaching Out, Beyond Talking and Life Jolts. While these phases are described in the book, they can also be found in the free Readiness of Change Fact Sheet authored by Ms. Samuels and available from the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization.

This book is a real gem for anyone who wants to live a fuller life. Linda Samuels and her pal Norton take us through the seasons of life that we all experience. While Ms. Samuels shares her personal stories in the Other Side of Organized, this book will help you shape your stories of life.

Grammar is a Key to Success

While grammar may not be your favorite subject, it could be your secret key to success. Of course, use of proper grammar while speaking and writing helps you become a more effective communicator.

Look at your TO DO list. Does each entry start with a verb? A verb is a part of speech that indicates action will take place. By the very act of starting an item on your TO DO list with a verb such as Pay, Write or Create, you are specific about your action plan. Add more information such as when you will do the task to help you plan.

Verbs are helpful when delegating tasks as well. It creates specificity and helps others to better understand what needs to be done. Tasks can be broken down into smaller parts using verbs as the initial words of the subtask. This is a recommendation we often give to individuals who are chronically disorganized as well as to students. However, it can work for anyone.

Use verbs on your TO DO list this week. Comment to this post on the results. I would like to hear from you!