Believe it or not, perfectionism is a very common cause of disorganization. Seems counterintuitive that a perfectionist could be disorganized, doesn’t it? Well, the desire for perfection is often so strong that it creates immobility, both at the onset of your organizing projects, and anywhere in the process if you begin to realize things aren’t turning out perfectly.
If you feel that perfectionism is getting in the way of your desire for a more organized home and life, the first step is to recognize this fact. Then, look for ways to take small steps in the direction you want to go. Give yourself permission to organize imperfectly by focusing your attention on progress instead of perfection.
I agree. I need to let go of having my craft room just right – it’s holding me back from using and enjoying this space. I want to tackle the room all at once. You’re right about taking small steps. Thanks for the tip!
Great Site! Thought I’d share a new organzing product I’ve been using in my car to hold window stickers. Its called the Spectamax, and there is nothing out there like it! I suggest it for anyone who has stickers they put on their windows (park passes, registration stickers, etc.)
Thx…
You have touched on the very reason why my garage looks the way it does!
My favorite quote is: Perfectionism steams the joy of the moment. And boy is that true for me. I’ve been doing so much better lately, but I have a way to go!
“I AM A PERFECTIONIST.”
(Now, you say, “Welcome, Amy!”)
This is TOTALLY my problem. I spin around like a busy bee every Saturday, trying to make my home perfection, only to look around and realize I’ve failed. Once again. Every Saturday. I then decided I needed to try an organize EVERY DAY, only to fail EVERY DAY. It started a spiral of depression.
The only way I’ve gotten through it is to embrace imperfection, and focus on the progress. You’ve hit the nail on the head, Aby!!! Great blog, keep ’em coming!! What’s your advice on how to “dig in?”
Can you let me know how you add your signature to your posts?
Thanks Aby! I am working on a organizing project right now… the TOY room !!! AHHHH! Progress not Perfection…check it out…
http://famtastic.wordpress.com/2008/09/25/toys-toys-and-more-toys/
Oh boy, is this ever true. I winced a little as I read, ’cause I could so see why I sometimes won’t start on a organizing project.
Love your blog! Found it through Ali E. today.
I think you are correct.
Love this bit of information. So true! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for this post! I always thought I was perfect … now I know it! 🙂
This is me totally. My perfectionism often paralyzes me, and I get nothing done at all. Lately I’ve been trying to teach myself that doing something is better than doing nothing.
Thank you. I needed that.