Editing

I recently read a blog post that used the expression "editing" to describe decluttering or purging.  This use of the word really resonated with me on several levels.  First, having been, at various points in my life, especially as a legal assistant and a student, I've spent a lot of time editing documents.  Editing is not purging or throwing everything away, it's a process of perfecting.    Another reason I like this word is because it's a positive word.  To edit something is a good thing, whereas decluttering or purging sounds like you have a serious problem.


Now I'm starting to look at making the best of what I have as an editing process.  And it's something that's on-going, not a one time chore.  To edit your home or office or closet or any area of your life is to examine it, find what's working or isn't working, and make it better.  Editing doesn't have to apply to things you've already acquired or possess.  You can edit your shopping habits or eating habits.  It makes you more thoughtful about your purchases and may prevent you from bringing something into your home or office that you don't really need (and will actually have to purge at a later point).  Editing what you eat means mindful eating, paying attention to the types of foods you buy and put into your body.  By editing your life, you can save yourself from mental and physical problems.  An edited environment means less stress and fewer illnesses.  What's not to like about that.