42 Days to Launch | The Weight of Things: What We're Really Keeping

After more than four years of remote work, I went to the office and faced fourteen years of accumulated corporate life. It felt surreal to be there sorting through physical reminders of my corporate life. Each folder and file was a decision point: what needs to be documented for the team, what needs to be saved, and what can be let go. It felt strange yet fitting to be organizing my physical and digital worlds in preparation for what's next.

After years of feeling overwhelmed by a lack of really good personal and work organization systems, a few months ago I finally found a system that's sticking. While more than one expert offers great insights about 'building a second brain,' the PARA method spoke to both the accountant and adventurer in me. Projects, Areas, Resources, Archives - a framework that works whether I'm organizing personal projects, client files or campground research and works across email, saved files, notes and my to do list.

The timing couldn't be better. As we prepare for this transition, every piece of paper and digital file needs a decision: keep, archive, or let go. But it's more than just organizing - it's about creating space for what matters. The PARA method helps sort not just files, but priorities. Future travel plans under Projects, business operations under Areas, camping guides under Resources, and past work documents under Archives.

Speaking of priorities, our focus on health these days isn't random. Bryan's past health challenges taught us that stress doesn't just affect today - it shapes what's possible tomorrow. Those lessons are driving our current choices.

Our twice-weekly strength training sessions aren't just about getting in shape - they're preparation for setting up camp, handling equipment, and staying active on the road. The daily dog "sniffs" (because with terriers, they're never just walks) are becoming mindfulness practice. Their noses stay glued to the ground, checking their "pee-mail," while we practice being present rather than rushing to the next task.

We're also working to reduce sugar and processed foods, though the holiday season timing adds an extra challenge. Most meals are home-cooked now - which we already enjoyed doing as former restaurant owners - but it's also good practice for camper cooking. Meditation is slowly becoming habit, though we have a way to go. The biggest mental health boost, right now, is coming from decluttering both physical and digital spaces.

TRANSITION UPDATES:

Corporate Exit: Planning another office clean-out day after more than four years of remote work. There's a lot to clean-out. Process documentation continues, and the team has plans to have lunch together in a few weeks. They are united and supportive of each other and, while still somewhat in shock, they are stepping up and moving forward. I'm truly grateful for all the years we worked together. I want to do everything I can to help them achieve continued success.

Virtual Business: Year-end reviews and work continues and we've talked with a few potential new clients. In the coming weeks we'll begin looking for new networking opportunities to participate in starting at the beginning of the new year and finalize goals for 2025.

Travel/Truck/Camper Plans: We ordered our 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid with AWD - our second big step toward a more intentional life! (the first was ordering the camper a few weeks ago.) Both the truck and the camper aren't expected to arrive until late January/February. Once the truck arrives, we'll list the Jeep and CR-V for sale to transition from two vehicles down to one.

This process was definitely another lesson in "enough". So many options to consider: mid-sized, compact, price, reliability, trim level, 2024 or 2025 model? In the end it came down to price, functionality and what would fit best in the garage! (In case you hadn't noticed, cars and trucks keep getting bigger, but a garage built in 1958 is still the same size it was in 1958-so that was a BIG factor!) We're also researching RV apps, camping for beginners, and we'll need to look at truck toppers to keep gear secure and dry.

What we're learning:

• Organization is really about creating space
• Good systems work across life changes
• Health preparation is adventure preparation
• Sometimes letting go makes room for better things

Next week, we'll share how we're learning to embrace each day of this transition. From the final team lunch to the goodbye emails, every "last time" moment carries its own weight. But there's a simple joy in not rushing the process - in letting each day unfold with its own purpose rather than trying to force perfect endings or rushed beginnings.

What systems help you organize the important parts of your life?