Trouble With Disorder

By Cyndi Seidler

When we look at the types of people who exist in the work place, it can be summed up into two basic attributes: The Organized and The Disorganized. Pretty basic, but useful to define in terms of a black and white scenario.

There seems to be a lack of discipline with The Disorganized. Others around them might tend to think The Disorganized are actually oblivious to the condition they're in, because it's a situation that appears to persist over long periods of time, sometimes a never-changing view of that person's surroundings. It is common to conclude that this type of person is typically stressed and goes in all directions to get things done, if they can get things done at all.

The Organized, on the other hand, are a special breed. They seem to be able to create "homes" for things and see to it that everything has a place and that there's a place for everything. They usually get more production done in a relatively short period of time because they tackle work with a disciplined approach.

Getting proper instruction and guidance, the Disorganized can evolve and be bred to be Organized. It is often just a matter of providing them with the know-how and then working with them on the discipline it takes to move into the ranks of The Organized.

The annoyances and inconveniences of working with The Disorganized eventually take its toll among co-workers. Often times, the situation creates others to work harder or bypass the individual to get certain work done. This hardship on others can bring about resentment and unnecessary grievances.

Since The Disorganized are basically enemies to themselves, more than anything, it is important to change adverse conditions in order to survive in harmony in the work place. I often notice that they are more disgusted with themselves than they are with the situation. That is why it isn't healthy to remain in this state for long periods of time.

One of the challenges of an Organizer is to bring harmony between the two conflicting breeds. It is up to the Organizer to get The Disorganized to change their ways because, after all, why should The Organized have to change their ways?

The evolution of The Organized often comes about out of the need and desire to change conditions. It is something one can only do on their own because, if forced into it, the condition is only a temporary one. Although it simply starts with a decision, it is often the kind of decision that is put off.

Order, to The Organized, is a critical factor for optimum survival. Their modus operandi is in figuring out ways to be more efficient so that more work can be accomplished with the least mount of effort and/or energy. They think in terms of systemized approaches to handling work and, therefore, get more done in a more orderly fashion.

To be or not to be organized---that is the question The Disorganized should answer and decide upon. Like an alcoholic, they must first know they have a problem (that they are disorganized and it is harming their success). Next, they must admit it After that, it's just a matter of taking the next step: Doing something about it. When you think about it, it starts as a state of new awareness and moves into a state of action.

Whether it's organizing items papers, information, contacts, project or organizing time, affairs, plans and goals, there is usually an area of one's life which can be improved. And, as already surmised, some will figure or how to change adverse condition, while others remain to live with it.

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