A Novel Idea

 
 
A few weeks ago I had this great idea to turn the bookcases in my office into….bookcases. For years they have held practically everything except books. Go figure. What's funny, is I absolutely adore books. I would spend an entire weeks pay on them if I could. And all this time they've been piled up on nightstands, under the bed, in boxes and drawers, in the garage..you get the idea. They were stuffed everywhere but on the actual bookcase. It was time for change. 
Here's what I learned about myself through the process…

 

1. I like seeing my books. It inspires me to want to browse through one and actually cook something or design something or plan a party or travel to a new destination.

2. I like how orderly the rows of books and organizers are…they seem neat and tidy even though they are actually very full. And I'm loving the pops of color from the bindings.

 

3. I really like having less clutter and have edited down my collection to just the ones I enjoy along with my "can't part with" favorite magazines.

4. The space feels better to me..more like the real me. If I love books so much why haven't I surrounded myself with them sooner? Why did I hide them away and fill the shelves with unused craft supplies, half done projects and "pretty stuff"?

5. My office feels more efficient. Books are categorized by subject matter which makes them easier to find and my office supplies are neatly tucked away in boxes and wire baskets.

 

6. I like the view from my desk. If I'm stuck in an inspiration rut I can easily find something to get the creativity rolling along.

7. Most importantly, I learned to really think about how I will use a space before I start filling it up with "stuff". I've been guilty of this strategy and am vowing to change. No more, "Oh this is cute"…."I need that"….or "I'll buy this _____ and make something later".
In the end it will only end up as clutter.

8. And finally…I learned I need to have an enormous yard sale!

I hope this encourages you to design and decorate your space to really suit you. No matter how it may look or feel to anyone else. After all…you're the one using it day after day. And the freedom of having a space you thoroughly enjoy is priceless!