The Big One . . . The Huge One!
Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 10:57AM 
Life is all about moments big and small. Sometimes the events are so small and fleeting that we don’t recognize them as significant. We don’t always stop to appreciate them or even understand how those small, seemingly, non-events play an important part in something larger. At other times, we become acutely aware of the role those tiny actions make in bringing us to that one giant goal we seek.
For me, the process of accomplishing a large goal usually starts with two things: a thought and a list. Now I don’t know about you, but I love making lists. I use them to help me remember the simple things like “Buy milk, cereal and toilet paper” to the more complex and long term items such as “Write a book.” I rely on my various lists to remind and guide me through life. If any of you are list makers, I’m sure you will appreciate that one of the most satisfying parts of completing an item from the list is grabbing a nice, thick pen and energetically crossing the item off. Done! Aaahhh. Even though I know that new items will pop-up the moment one thing is crossed off, I am never discouraged. This is just a fact of life. If you are living, there will always be things to do and accomplish. That’s a good thing.
On my “Master To Do List,” that resides prominently on my desk, one item remained on the list for years. It said, “Write organizing book.” Every time I’d update the list, I’d carry over this particular item year after year. That thought might horrify some of you. But the truth is that certain things take time to accomplish. Any big project or change includes many small steps and commitments.
Something different happened in 2009. At the beginning of the year, I decided that this one reoccurring item would be accomplished before the year’s end. The time had come to commit the resources and energy needed to complete this goal. Over the years, there had been a lot of preparation and research. Do you remember those small actions I mentioned earlier? Many actions took place along the way to help me reach my big goal.
So the other day, when my first boxes of books arrived, I decided it was time to pick up a pen and cross “Write organizing book” off my list! As I drove the red felt tip through those words, it almost felt surreal that the book was actually finished, printed and in my hands. What followed were a sigh, a smile and some joyful tears.
Linda Samuels, CPO-CD
® is a compassionate, enthusiastic professional organizer, author & blogger who facilitates change in others' lives. She lives with her husband and daughters in a small, colorful home with a purple front door.
Reader Comments (4)
Congratulations, Linda!! That is such an accomplishment. I know the thrill of holding a book I've written in my hands; it's just wonderful. I hope your sales are great. I'm sure your book will help many.
Happy new year!
Janine
I received your book postcard and just clicked onto the site. Even the cover looks beautiful and I am sure I will find the book extremely helpful. I met you a number of years ago and very much appreciated your process. Congratulations!
I'm so proud of you. What a wonderful accomplishment! I can't wait to read your book. I'm going to order a copy right now. Would you do me the honor of signing it?
Thank you so much for all of your wonderful support and good wishes. I am happy to sign all books that get ordered directly through my book site - www.theothersideoforganized.com. Click on the purple link on the top right of the screen that says, "Buy Now on Amazon." Those orders go directly to my Oh, So Organized! Amazon storefront where I personally fulfill them.
Readers are just beginning to share their thoughts with me. It's very exciting to hear their insights and reactions. I look forward to hearing yours!