In my ongoing effort to find new ways to support practice in everyday life, the almighty, yet humble, sticky note doesn’t disappoint.
When I’m a little down or feeling slightly out of control, there’s nothing quite like a visit to an office supply store to cheer me up! The entire store holds the promise of a neat, tidy, well-organized life. It opens me back up to possibility and potential.
The one item from these stores that has been a steadfast companion in my life and in my practice is the Post-It. For years I’ve used these remarkable, colorful pieces of paper to leave myself reminders, inspire myself with quotes, make process maps, and more.
I hide them in drawers and between the pages of books to be found later in some unsuspecting moment.
At first they were only available in pink, blue, and a limey green. But it’s clear I’m not alone in my love for the Post-It—they are now available in a wide variety of fun shapes and colors.
Recently, as part of the yearlong retreat, I had made a list in my notebook of all the things the voices said that day. I was trying to group them by theme so I could attribute them to various characters, but it was too much for the page. I couldn’t follow it. I needed an upgrade.
Post-Its to the rescue! I found an open expanse of wall and grabbed my beautiful Moroccan Colors Post-Its and began to translate what was in my notebook, one comment per sticky.
Once I had them all up on the wall, I was able to move them around and the categories quickly became obvious. What was impossible to see or organize in one way became clear when I looked at it differently. (That’s a good reminder for a sticky note.)
By the end of the month, my wall was full and I’d used up a significant number of sticky notes. But that just means I get to go back to the office supply store soon and get some more. I bet I’ll see some of you there.
Gassho,
Jenn B.