Saturday night as I was preparing for dinner guests, I noticed that the green plant that has been sitting on the counter for several months was looking really droopy, and I started to toss it out. (In spite of the best efforts of my grandmother, I never developed much of a green thumb!) As often happens to me, I interrupted myself, and started arranging the flowers I had for the table. Suddenly, I had an idea. I stuck some of the live flowers into the green plant. The results were amazing! A few days later, a friend who is in my house often, saw it, and exclaimed, “Wow, I didn’t know that plant bloomed like that!” I told my story, and we both had a laugh. I have no idea how long that solution will last, but in the meantime, I’m enjoying the results.
The episode caused me to think about how many times we throw something out — whether it’s a physical item or an intellectual idea — when with a little more ingenuity we could create something beautiful. It also was a beautiful illustration of one of my favorite life philosophies: “Together We Are Better.”
By itself, the green plant left much to be desired, and the red flowers I put in it were dramatically enhanced by the addition of the plant.
The same principle applies to relationships. When I decided it was time to update Taming the Paper Tiger at Home, I wanted to make sure it would appeal to future generations, so I partnered with Jennifer Wig to write Organizing Paper @Home: What To Toss and How To Find the Rest! to add a younger perspective.
My business partner, Andrea Anderson, and I frequently refer to each other as “Peanut Butter” and “Jelly.” I love to be out front, and she thrives behind the scenes. Together We Are Better!
So here’s my challenge for you this week, “What area of your life would be improved — or be more enjoyable — if you partnered with someone else who has skills that are complimentary to yours?”
Barbara Hemphill is a Nationally known Productivity Expert, helping people eliminate the physical, digital, and emotional clutter that prevents them for accomplishing their work and enjoying their lives! To book Barbara as your next Keynote Speaker or Seminar/Workshop Presenter: contact Sue Falcone at 1-888-766-3155 or email her at sue@simplysuespeaks.com.