The 3 Fears that Keep You From Getting Organized
Fear.
It’s an emotion that all of us feel in varying degrees. For some of us, it's the fear of spiders, close spaces, or the dark that causes the hair on our arms to rise. Then there are those of us who are afraid to step out of our comfort zones, have courage, or simply dream.
Regardless of what it is that scares each of us, fear is a real thing.
And it’s not uncommon to see it surface when someone is trying to get organized, although it may show itself in ways we may not expect.
But as Christians, we can take comfort in God’s Word that reminds us that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). So let’s take a look at the fears that can keep us from orderly living and discover how we can overcome them!
The Three Fears of Getting Organized
1. The Fear of Imperfection
One of the most common fears that can hinder us from getting organized is the fear of imperfection. We often set impossibly high standards for ourselves, believing that if we can't do something perfectly, we shouldn't do it at all. This fear can paralyze us, preventing us from taking the first step toward a more orderly life.
If the fear of not being “perfectly organized” is an issue for you, remember that the Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ's power may rest on me."
God's grace is more than enough for us, even in our imperfections. When we acknowledge our weaknesses and surrender them to Him, He can work through us and help us overcome our fear of imperfection. It's okay to make mistakes along the way to becoming more organized; they are opportunities for growth and learning.
2. The Fear of Failure
Another fear that holds us back from getting organized is the fear of failure. We worry that our efforts won't yield the desired results or that we might fall short of our goals. This fear can lead to procrastination and hesitation.
In times of doubt, remember Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
When we trust in God's plan, we can face the possibility of failure with courage. We know that even if things don't go as we expect, God has a greater purpose and a straight path for us. Embrace the process of organizing your life, knowing that God is with you every step of the way, even if it takes several attempts to get it right.
3. The Fear of Loss
The fear of loss can manifest when we're reluctant to part with possessions or past habits. We might fear that decluttering or reorganizing will mean losing something valuable or familiar to us. This fear can keep us stuck in the clutter and chaos of our lives.
But Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) reminds us of where our true treasures lie: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
When we let go of the fear of loss and focus on what truly matters—our faith and our relationship with God—we discover that the things we're holding onto aren't as valuable as we thought. Organizing our lives can be an opportunity to prioritize what's truly important and align our hearts with God's plan for us.
Has fear kept you from getting organized? If so, take a step of faith today and start the journey towards orderly living. When you do, you can take comfort in knowing that God is by your side, guiding you through the fear toward a life filled with His blessings and riches.
