May 21, 2007

Fabulous Finds: "Soleful" PurposeLittle Doses of Bad Things: Clutter Fabulous Finds: "Soleful" PurposeFabulous Finds: "Soleful" Purpose

Clutter can help conjure creativity? What? For years, anal-retentive bosses have been demanding clean cubicles for the sake of productivity. Neat-freak moms have been insisting on orderly bedrooms for the sake of sanity. And, my obsessively tidy boyfriend has taken serious issue with my disorganized closet…just to pester me. Not anymore! Eric Abrahamson, a Columbia School of Business Professor, and David H. Freedman, a journalist, have found that moderate messes can actually enrich creativity, amplify efficiency and minimize anxiety. In fact, this clutter-endorsing duo is so sure of their claim, that they put it in print in “A Perfect Mess: The Hidden Benefits of Disorder” (www.aperfectmess.com). If you really want to show your supervisor who’s boss, make your position clear that, contrary to popular belief, compulsive cleanliness could, in fact, contribute to unnecessary time and money spending.

Now, this isn’t license to reside in a sty, but go ahead and drop a few paper clips on the floor or let a couple of rogue files linger a little too long on your desk. And, when you are late to a meeting, but can’t find the right slacks to wear, leave your rejects on the bed and get back to them later. Get a little dirty! It’s liberating. You’ll see.