Next week is Thanksgiving. Like you, I have many things to be thankful for this year. I have a safe, warm home. I have my health, and my family has theirs. I have wonderful people in my life with which I can share fantastic experiences. And, I'm fortunate enough to have a job I love, helping people relieve the stress associated with their stuff.
Of course, I know there are many, many people who are not so fortunate to have some or any of these things. We can all do our parts as individuals to help make sure others are fed, clothed and loved all year round.
I want to also think on helping those more immediately around you to have a less stressful season and year ahead. The art of being organized is pretty basic at it's heart: have less, keep up routines. For a lot of people, that takes some practice and assistance. It also takes some getting used to the idea that someone else might be able to make this process go all the quicker and easier.
So, this year, as you're giving thanks and giving gifts to express your thanks, think about organization. Think about how wonderful it feels to know where your things are, when you need them. Think about how great it is to feel comfortable having someone drop by unexpectedly.
Maybe you can get the wheels turning on someone else with a small gift, like these. Maybe, the boss or your coworker could use some subtle hints that their messy desk is stressing out the whole office? Something like this might be helpful. But, don't get too bogged down with gadgets and gizmos. Real organization comes with time. How long has your mess been staring at you? Well, then it won't be fixed over night.
Take the time to chat about how staying organized has changed your day-to-day routine. Offer to help start the process with them. Just make sure you aren't over stepping any boundaries. A professional, with no attachment or memories of the items being handled really comes in handy here! And, just for good measure, don't forget to be a good example for those around you.
Help someone feel less stressed this season. Give them one more thing to be thankful for. (Well, two things - they'll be even more thankful to have you in their life!)