An interesting theory!

There’s a concept in law enforcement known as the Broken Windows Theory, which says that we take cues from our environment. In addition, the theory also suggests that if we address these minor infractions, people start to behave better.

It’s a controversial theory of policing, but I believe it’s the truth when it comes to our personal lives. There are small indicators of disorder that make us feel as if things are out of control. It might just be that stack of unopened mail, but it contributes to our feeling guilty and overwhelmed and ineffective and..?

I’m currently immersed in the process of moving from one living space to another. My broken window has been the overwhelm of decisions on what to keep, what to donate, what to throw away. And each decision made has been freeing.

Have you ever found that putting a small concentrated effort in one small area has freed up your energy and desire to accomplish even more? I did.

I think that’s the really useful aspect of applying the broken window theory to our daily life. Having a broken window undermines our goals because it gives us a sense of chaos.

The act of fixing broken windows, however, is liberating. The task takes on a symbolic weight. It doesn’t just feel like we’re cleaning out a junk drawer, it feels like we’re taking the first step toward doing everything we’ve been meaning to do.

I think of it like planting a seed. All we have to do is nurture that seed, water it, give it time, and we know that it will eventually grow into a small plant…a plant of energy, of self-esteem, of accomplishment!

I like what Lao Tzu says in his classic book of wisdom, Tao Te Ching:

“Big problems arise from small problems; the wise man takes care of all his small problems, thus he has no problems.”

So, any broken windows in your life? How do you handle them?