Less is more!
To me, fall is a time to get back into a routine and get organized again. The kids are back at school, the weekend cabin life is winding down and the the warm summer breeze is fast fading to a brisk fall chill. For me, the need to organize often stems from things that have gone by the wayside over a period of time and the idea that when this gets done, I can do that, or have time for this.
We all have things that we want to eliminate, or change in our lives, because they drain our energy, but getting started is sometimes hard to do. I recently read, “When less is more,” an article found in the September 2007 issue of Body + Soul magazine, by Cheryl Richardson, that talked about “addition by subtraction,” a formula she uses to help people add more joy to their lives. I found the article interesting and useful and wanted to share some of her points. Listed below are 5 steps to addition by subtraction:
Addition By Subtraction:
- Enlist a partner: Enlist a friend to help you through the process and support you.
- Make an “Add” list: Before subtracting anything from your life, write down 3 goals that you’d like to achieve.
- Subtract: Make another list of 3 things that you’d like to get rid of in your life that drain your energy, etc.
- Take Action: Break each subtraction item down into smaller tasks that you can accomplish over a period of time. (e.g. 1 month)
- Greet the additions: Celebrate what you’ve accomplished. e.g. If you cleaned and organized your closet, or garage, invite a friend over to see your accomplishments, or go out to dinner to celebrate. Feel the sense of relief and the weight being lifted off your shoulders. Watch to see what shows up in your life, as you get rid of some of your negatives.
Could you use the “addition by subtraction” formula in your life?
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Business, Uncategorized on September 11th, 2007 by Barb | |
