“Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Take a look at your desk. How does it look? What is it signalling?
Is it neat and organised? Or cluttered and confused?
Reflection of our inner world
The state of our desk (or desktop, inbox) often reflects the state of our mind. Digital clutter is as burdensome as physical clutter. It makes it hard to be clear on priorities and focus on what is most important.
The illusion of control
I find that when my desk is a mess I also have confused priorities. I am doing too many things at once. Often this reflects a need for control. But this is an illusion, I am not really any more in control with this mess laid out. Actually it’s the opposite.
The weight
I have a bad habit of building up over 200 open web browser tabs. I open links and plan to read them later. But “later” rarely happens. I move on to the next thing and that great article to read is forgotten. The problem is I can feel the weight of those open browser tabs pulling me down throughout the day and occupying space in my mind. This space could be better used for more creative purposes.
Every paper, file, or book on your desk is a reminder of all your unfinished projects. You lose track of what’s what. This is anxiety provoking.
Let go
Remove the items which do not require your attention today (I closed those 200 browser tabs). Free your mind. It’s amazing what a quick tidy up can do for the mind to reset and then refocus on your true priorities.
Clear your desk and clear your thinking.
