There is nothing more calming than an organised life

There is nothing more calming than an organised life

An organised life, or the intentional organisation of our lives, provides the foundation for mental well-being and overall productivity, as documented by various scientific studies. A key element of this concept is the reduction of cognitive load. The cognitive load theory holds that our working memory has a limited capacity and clutter, or more accurately, the amount of entropy - whether physical or mental - can exceed this capacity, leading to stress and reduced efficiency. By organising our environment and routines, we free up mental resources, cultivating a state of calm and improving our ability to process information and make decisions.

Many examples could be cited, mainly from the field of science and engineering. For example, transport engineering offers concrete examples of how organisation can significantly improve peace of mind and efficiency. One notable example is the concept of "synchronous flow" in traffic management. Synchronous flow refers to the smooth movement of vehicles facilitated by coordinated traffic signals and well-designed road networks. When traffic systems are well organised, the frequency and severity of congestion is reduced, leading to reduced travel times and lower levels of stress for commuters. Research shows that unpredictable travel times and stop-and-go traffic contribute significantly to commuter stress and road rage, while well-coordinated systems promote a more relaxed driving experience.

Another example from transport engineering is the application of so-called Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). ITS use advanced technology to integrate different elements of the transport infrastructure, such as traffic lights, toll stations and public transport, into a coherent system. This integration enables real-time data exchange and efficient management of traffic flows, leading to fewer delays and smoother journeys. Studies have shown that these systems not only enhance the efficiency of transport networks, but also significantly reduce commuter stress by providing reliable travel information and reducing uncertainties - reducing or, if you like, taming the entropy of the system to which they are applied.

Moreover, the concept of "just-in-time" logistics in supply chain management clearly indicates, one could say, the calming effect of the organisation. Just-in-time logistics ensures that materials and products are delivered exactly when they are needed, minimising storage costs and reducing the risk of overproduction or stock-outs. This approach, which relies heavily on precise timing and coordination, streamlines operations and mitigates the chaos and stress associated with inventory management.

It is, therefore, possibly fair to conclude that, based on the above, an organised life, like an optimised transport system, relieves stress and increases efficiency. Let us not miss the universal scientific principle/finding that entropy always tends to increase. We must therefore tame it. By reducing cognitive load and promoting predictability, organisation creates a calming environment, allowing individuals to navigate their daily tasks with greater ease and peace of mind.