Do you work better in order or in chaos?

I ask this question because as strange as it may sound, actually some people feel more comfortable working in a chaotic and messy environment. Probably because keeping an organized work area or office is not an easy task. I mean, how do you keep everything in its right place when you have to work on the computer, call the client, take notes, print samples, and at the same time you need to grab a snack, and hold the doll your kid is giving you.

The work space (when it's clean).

I actually know people that say they have a system and are able to feel comfortable working in their own mess. They know where everything is...tossed!

If you are not messy because you like it but, like me, it just gets out of control, then here are some ideas that might help:

1. Keep a trash can close to the desk. 

2. Use a calendar, a planner and a notepad for to do lists or any information you need to write down.

3. Have a bin for things that don't belong in your work area. 

4. Have a phone line in the office. (If is the wireless then you might leave it there and forget to charge it).

5. Use shelves, bins or drawers for storing and organizing papers.

Good luck keeping that space clean!

Fun upcycling

We like to recycle the cardboard boxes and packages but once in a while we get creative and make up a game or a toy using our trash, especially cardboard which is our favorite.

The secret door in the tree made made out of cardboard trash.

You can upcycle your garbage and turn it into fun and useful items. Plastic bottles are great for many recycled crafts even for decorations for the home. We have used also those cardboard tubes that are inside the paper rolls, they are very popular for crafts and have many uses.

Here's an old project we made back when we lived in the apartment. The purpose was to control some wires in Ella's old room.

We covered the cardboard tube with fabric to make it look better.

And this was the result. Yep, I didn't get what I expected but... you get my point, convert the waste materials into items you and your family can use and at the same time have fun crafting these ideas.

Boredom

We know that today's life doesn't allow you to feel bored. But even that way we find ourselves involved in boring situations, like stuck in traffic, doing the dishes, waiting in the doctor’s office or waiting in line. Well, none of these activities have to be boring if you know how to take advantage of the situation.



Illustration of Ella and I made in a waiting moment.



For example, if you're waiting for the bus you can use this as an inspiration moment to look around you and realize the inspiring things you can find, study your surroundings and turn them into a creative idea. 

You can make it interesting using these situations to imagine ideas for a photograph, a TV commercial, a short film, ...something creative. Use this moment to sketch, draw or even write. Is fun and it also could be useful. Also try listening to music, which is very uplifting and at the same time helps you develop your creativity in many ways.

TIP: Hang out with a large purse or bag and fill it with everything you need and you think you don't need. Be ready for these moments of boredom. You should have pencils, notepads, a music player and anything else you think could avoid a void moment.

There should be no reason to feel bored, everything has its purpose find fun in everything you do. I know is hard to avoid routine and make every day be a different day. Then let's try routine with a twist. Carpe diem and appreciate every moment of your life, is the great gift.