When My Mail Didn’t Spark Joy: a True Story About Being Human

Ami Teodosio - Professional Organizer San Antonio

Yesterday I woke up to finding out there was fraud on our accounts.

Someone had activated a credit card of mine that was supposed to be in the mail.

I had this sinking feeling and I went to go check the mailbox.

Sure enough, no mail. Just a dental magazine advertisement. The credit card was stolen.

My mind started spiraling.

The day before that I had literally put on my purse, and shouted to the kids “I’m going to check the mail.” All of a sudden, my husband walked in the door and I got distracted. I set down my purse and never checked it.

Then comes all the “fun” stuff that happens when you experience identity theft. Multiple calls to report and cancel things. Changing passwords. Enrolling in identity theft protection. Checking in on neighbors to see what happened to their mailboxes.

I feel like there are certain brains where this stuff comes easily and naturally. But for me, it took hours.

This did not spark joy.

I began to get really down on myself.

You’re not good with this technology stuff.

You’re not good with this finance stuff.

What are you doing even running a business?

You only had one job. One job. And you failed.

It took time, mindful awareness and a lot of self-compassion to get through yesterday. And even now I feel resistance to do those things I feel like I’m “supposed to do.”

But I do know all things work for the good. And I would be sharing a different blog post if yesterday didn’t happen.

So, what does this have to do with decluttering and organizing?

It did get me thinking about shame, and how I am not alone in this universal emotion. I thought about how there are people all over who probably have a similar voice running through their head, especially when it comes to their homes.

You’re not good at organizing your home.

You’re not good at managing your home.

What are you doing even being a mom?

You only had one job. One job. And you failed.

Like me, you may feel stuck.

I am here to tell you that you are not alone.

If you want help with your home, please reach out. I know what it’s like to have your brain work a certain way, and how it feels like to feel stuck.

You are worth it!

And I’m curious to know. How do you all handle passwords? Do you check your mail everyday? Are you a part of any identity theft protection? Thanks for the help!