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declare what you believe

Yesterday I sat down to type out what I really believe about my business.  I had just been searching websites of professional organizers to find out how they let other people know what makes them special; what they share in their "About" section.  I thought it might be a good idea for me to put down on paper why I want to do this work and why I believe it has value.

One person had labeled this page her "manifesto."  I took that idea and started to type.  It was fun to collect all of the little thoughts and phrases that have been surrounding me for the last 4 months and put them together on one page of text.  It felt like a culmination.  

Here's are a couple paragraphs from my business manifesto:


I believe that it is really helpful to have a partner as you begin this process.  A partner who only wants the best for you and is ready to be of service.  A partner to help you gain clarity around what you are really looking for in your space and life.  A partner that can help you look at things with new eyes and see the possibilities that are hiding in your space.  A partner to keep things light and keep you going. 

I would love to offer myself as that partner. I want to help you breathe life back into the openings of your heart and home.


I opened up my email today and found that the Happiness Tip from Christine Carter was advising the same kind of work.  She says, "having go-to sources for inspiration and motivation can guide us towards those thoughts and behaviors that bring us the most meaning, fulfillment, and satisfaction."  Here is what she came up with when she did this work.  I thought it was inspiring!


The Sweet Spot Manifesto
Life might be short, or it might be long. Either way, better to enjoy it. 
If you are tired, rest. 
If you can't solve a problem, take a walk.
If you feel overwhelmed, stop checking your phone.
Forgive yourself, again.
Focus on the journey, not the achievement.
More is not necessarily better.
Learn to apologize.
Repair your mistakes.
Let yourself feel what you feel.
Smile at the barista.
Chat with folks on the train.
Chase meaning, not happiness.
Look for opportunities to show compassion and generosity.
Develop good habits; you won't need so much willpower that way.
Consider that your worry isn't legitimate.
Say no strategically.
Say yes with abandon.
Accept that you're divergent. Go with it.
Embrace the better-than-nothing plan.
Remember when you've been brave before.
Understand that happiness is only the cart; love is the horse. 
-Christine Carter, The Sweet Spot



After I shoveled the driveway, I discovered this leaf print and it made me think about hidden aspirations that once exposed reveal their beauty.  What could you proclaim as your manifesto?  What truths are guiding your day?  

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