Why should we simplify? Is a cluttered life the sign of a cluttered mind?

Dr. Gabor Maté, M.D. dedicates an entire chapter in Scattered Minds: A New Look at the Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder to the importance of our physical space. Although he is writing about Attention Deficit Disorder, who in our culture of mass consumerism, latte-induced busy-ness, and two-second media bites does not have some experience with some of its effects on our wellbeing and personal development?

To combat those caffeine-agitated thoughts, here are some quick bits from Gabor´s insightful and inspired book that we feel are important to share with you to help create intentional transformation:

“Make a conscious choice about how to live.”

“No less than for children, conditions of his environment continue to have a direct and major impact on his emotions and thought processes…”

“Without the right conditions, the brain cannot develop new circuits or the mind new ways of relating to the world and to self. A person cannot become sane in the midst of the chaos she perpetuates around herself.”

“It is not a duty to clear some physical space so that his mind is not oppressed by clutter, but it is a sensible thing to do if the long term goal is development.”

“The adult with attention deficit disorder needs to know that the physical space she occupies can help to either harmonize or disorganize the mind.”

“Neglecting to honor their physical environment is to neglect themselves.”

Sweet, simple food for thought that fuels quality living and personal development.

Learn more about Dr. Gabor Maté and his work here.

The Global Alignment Team