Get Organized! A self-help guide for the Obsessive/Compulsive Crafter.

O.k., I'll admit it.
I'm a Type A, obsessive, compulsive, anxiety-ridden perfectionist.

I'm one of those people who can't seem to get the day started until the kitchen is cleaned and my "to do list" has been made.

Try as I might to lighten up throughout the years, I can't. I would love to get rid of this compulsion for cleanliness and organization. I've tried cognative behavioral therapy - you know - leaving the messes, the clutter, and all the junk strewn about. Tried to look the other way and move forward with my day, ignoring my surroundings.

I've threatened to go on strike at my house and NOT pick up one single toy, article of clothing, scrap of paper, empty toilet paper roll (yep) dirty dishes or wipe any muddy footprints in my house for a week. I wondered if anyone would care or notice but me – secretly hoping everyone would be driven crazy by the clutter and messes.

Yeah right. I'm such a dreamer.

Funny thing is, I cannot even let 2 days pass before the mess drives ME bonkers. I start feeling out of sorts. Discombobulated. Confused. I find myself twirling in circles not really knowing how and where to begin my day.

So, I start cleaning things up. Putting my world into order. Organizing and then breathing easily again.

 

Contrast this behavior to my husband's style of functioning. He's an absolutely brilliant human being, a high achiever, fun loving, caring, spontaneous, easygoing and very playful. He could simply care less about messes. Walk into our shared bedroom and bathroom and the stark contrast between our styles is clear to see. His side. My side. The difference is pretty laughable!

Messes and clutter will never stop my husband from moving forward with his day or having fun.

There are obvious pluses and minuses to both styles of functioning.

The need to have things organized and tidy just seems to be built into my DNA. It's how I'm made.
Having kids, and a dog, have forced me to strike more of a balance between clean and mess.

I've learned to organize my little areas of the house and leave the rest alone.

Think I'll go watch an episode of Monk, just to feel normal again!