It took me several years to turn my old house into a masterclass in backstage management. The theory is simple: you can’t have an opulent and uncluttered front stage without a well-managed backstage. All those practical tools and instruments need a home.
Organisation is liberation, whereas a lack of organisation leads to procrastination and inefficiency. Being lazy is hard work, so I prefer an easy life of front-loaded tidiness.
Some key instruments I’ve brought with me, but many tools of modern life were co-owned by my ex and me. They belonged to the house, so I’ve had to buy lots of new bits that will belong to this house (e.g., a toolbox, an iron).
A man in his 40s needs a toolkit, and it’s slowly coming together—just like backstage organisation. This summer will focus on getting the backspaces equipped and fully operational. Aesthetic and cosmetic progress is ultimately less urgent and less important for quality of life. Besides, you can’t start decorating and fixing up the front space until you’ve got your backspace and tools organised.
I’ve added a new tool: a power washer. Can’t wait to put that to good use once term is over.
A few pics of small but meaningful progress below 🙂
Dr Martin James 