The Metaphor of Filing

Because I moved around a lot since 2003 - I have had to create a filing system that works for me. This has changed over time. When jumping from place to place I used cardboard file boxes and sorted by project. Once I landed somewhere for two years - I invested in a terrific HON 4 drawer cabinet and began the process of integrating my old file system into the other. I have just completed the integration process - but it has felt daunting. (Especially since I'm moving again!)

Daunting. Overwhelming. These words mean that we are projecting resistance. They mean that we are not in the present moment.

One way around this is to change the metaphor of filing. That is you can assign an intention around the project. Filing can even be a meditation practice. Decide to be aware of each breath as you file. You can even set an intention to breathe in everything you need and release everything you don't need. As you file and your thoughts are running amok - gently bring your awareness back to your breath and your intention.

Organizing is be very grounding. It can be a way to do something very simple - take one paper and place it here. Take the next paper and file it there. Sometimes listen to music. Sometimes don't. Take your pile to sort outside. One benefit to this process is that when our thoughts take a back seat to our breath, we often receive insights to problems we have been mentally focused on.

Filing is a way for me to still my mind. Most important, the action of filing is another way I bring my life into balance.

Be aware! If you absolutely resist or loathe filing, then hire a student to file for you and move on! You'll get your filing done and support a local student. Once the pile is set - then you can decide to keep up on the filing yourself - or not.

The point is to make sure your filing works for you not against you.

Whatever filing path you choose, take a deep breath and allow your file piles lead you to where you need you,

Aunt Dot