An Organized Life is a Civilized Life

When you only have what you use, and what you use is in its place, you maximize speed and minimize need. The act of organizing and simplifying your environment is a practice of self-respect. It shows you value your time, energy, and mental clarity.

More than two decades ago, I had a 1:1 with a highly respected R&D leader. I loved his style and wanted to learn more. Though we never reconnected, I walked away with lasting wisdom. I had never seen anyone so organized. He took 5S to the Lean stratosphere. Everything was labeled: files, folders, pictures, contents. "Everything had a place and everything was in its place."

Years later, I saw this principle in action once again when I visited a young aspiring technician at a global benchmark manufacturing site in Asia. I was so impressed with his ownership, positive mindset, and organization. The result? The best machine start-ups in the world and the most cost-efficient maintenance. The operations were both predictive and lightning-fast in resolving issues.

I was so impressed by these experiences. As a result, I strive to practice organization when I approach anything I do. Even going to the gym, I fold my towels, layer my gloves, put weights in perfect alignment, and reposition mats. I place kitchen dishes in strategic locations, spices for cooking in order of use, and clothes folded into spaces like a retail boutique. Some might say this is a sign of a deeper problem 🤔, but honestly? I've never felt clearer or more focused.

Even my home is impacted — we have sought out homes with no excess space — I believe in rooms that are used every day, and I don't hold on to possessions used less than once a year. Everything else is either donated, sold, or gifted. After more than a dozen relocations, I’ve kept only what I use and what helps me grow. Fortunately, my family shares this mindset, so we have no "storage" locations in or outside our home.

In my office, I maintain a file cabinet with every folder labeled, documents in chronological order, and key content summarized. This habit has allowed me to easily and quickly access information to aid in problem-solving, creativity, and personal development. My small home office is organized with every space utilized and desktops clear of clutter. Every day, I dust off my computer, clean my desk, wipe down corners, and vacuum my floor. This helps me have a clear mind and positive mindset.

Try it. You might be impressed with how much a little organization and cleanliness impacts your life.

Da Vinci said, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." If that's true, then organization creates the Mona Lisa of respect—for yourself, your time, and your mind.

Besides, according to Charles Barkley, anything less would be uncivilized 😉.

© Nuri Dimler 2025