I love fountains. They soothe me. I have one in my office, one in the living room, and one outside beside the deck. They run 24/7.
However, if I didn’t add water daily to the ones inside and monitor the water level on the one outside, they would not function as they should. First, I might notice less of a bubbly sound. Then I might notice a raspy sound of the pump. If I didn’t add water, the pump will stop working and my fountain would no longer be functional.
Every so often, depending on the fountain, the fountain needs a good cleaning. I need to disconnect it, take it apart, and clean everything – container, rocks, hoses, and the pump.
The pump is the heart of the fountain. It will be the first thing to show signs of debris build up. The water will stop flowing smoothly. The fountain will start making a noise. Paying attention to these signs and dealing with them as soon as you notice them are key to keeping your fountain running smoothly.
Fountains need a power source to keep working. Usually, they are plugged in to an electric outlet. If the plug comes out of the socket or the electricity goes out, the fountain stops working.
I am like my fountains.
I need daily routines and care.
I need times where I am completely shut down and cared for.
I need a power source.
If I am going to continue to be a support to others, I need to take care of myself. If I neglect my daily care and regular maintenance, I will stop functioning.
Take at least as much care and maintenance for yourself as you do things that serve you.
If you want help setting up a maintenance system or just some accountability in working your organizational plan join Diane Quintana and me on our Clear Space For You clutter support group.
Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients tackle the toughest organizational issues. Jonda does hands on organizing and virtual organizing. For more of Jonda’s tips connect with her on Facebook.
"If I am going to continue to be a support to others, I need to take care of myself. If I neglect my daily care and regular maintenance, I will stop functioning.
Take at least as much care and maintenance for yourself as you do things that serve you." I wish everyone would take this lesson to heart. I once had a phone conversation with my BFF. She had the flu, but she was up at midnight making cupcakes for a bakesale THE NEXT DAY that her kid didn't tel her about until bedtime, and trying to do housework. I pointed out that if she ended up in the hospital, there would be nobody to put her kids to bed, or…
I'm with you! I have two fountains, one outside and one in my bedroom. I love the analogy. Self-care is so important. This past weekend, I had the opportunity to do nothing but self-care and relax. Nothing was urgent, so it was a unique time to do this. I slept a lot better last night too. It's a great way to start the week. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. =)
Oh, Jonda! What a beautiful analogy you made between caring for your fountains and caring for yourself. Yes, without that attention, the water won't flow, and without attention, we burn out.
We have one solar-powered fountain/birdbath in the backyard. We add water several times a week because it either evaporates, the deer or birds drink it, or it splashes out. When we maintain the fountain, we see birds enjoying the water, which delights us. So it's a win-win all around.
And when I engage in self-care activities, I can better help others.