The First Step Towards Change

The first step toward change is to own it.

I had a conversation with my son, as he prepares to leave for college, about how he would like to do certain things differently this year. He brought it up so we went there.

He’s often disorganized and keeping track of his work can be challenging…or at least it was in high school.

I have the same challenges. In my early career, I was often encouraged to interview for an administrative assistant (previously known as secretary) job.

It would take too long to count how many times…without a college degree…I was sent in this direction.

The thought of creating a filing system…whew! I would’ve been terrible at it. Chatting it up on 800 number calls in a customer service center was more my jam.

Learning to organize has been a lifelong endeavor for me, and I’ve learned to love it!

So how did I change my thinking about this thing I wanted to change?

1. Own it – accept that this isn’t a strength

2. Learn from it – make an honest assessment of what is challenging about it

3. Change it – develop and follow a new routine

I started with a book called something like 30 Days to Getting Organized, and I’ve never looked back.

I can now go “Marie Kondo” or “Home Edit” on any room or filing system that crosses my path.

For the new school year, my son and I decided to work together on a plan that has accountability built in. Own. Learn. Change.

He’s working on a system but your thoughts on any other ideas are welcome too!!