An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

A place for everything; everything in its place

  • Published
  • By Col. Brian Smith
  • 6th Operations Group commander
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Just like some of you, my family and I are right in the middle of yet another move, our ninth in our Air Force career.

There are boxes everywhere in our house. Life simply doesn't slow down enough to make it as smooth of a transition as we would like it to be.

Each time, after the dust settles from a move, we have vowed to clean out and organize a little better next time. It is funny how much you can accumulate in just a few years. Have you ever opened a box after a move and wondered if the things belonged to you? We have. In fact, it was yesterday and the sad thing is we just moved from off base.

While every permanent change of station is a new adventure, it can also be an opportunity to purge and organize. Clutter can cause unnecessary stress whether it is in your mind or in your home.

When is the last time you reviewed all of your auto and home insurance policies in detail or updated your record of emergency data? When was the last time you updated your wills and powers of attorney?

We all know we are supposed to do it but carving out time for a personal records overhaul doesn't always get to the top of the priority list. Ensuring things like your personal records are current and accessible and your vehicles are properly maintained will not only ease your mind, but could make a huge difference in any future emergency situations.

We all face moves, deployments and temporary duty assignments. It is our way of life. Investing a little time now will decrease the level of stress and chaos later, and the payout is well worth it.

There are many checklists available online and at helping agencies on base to remind you what needs to be reviewed every so often. While you are at it, maybe you can de-clutter your life by getting rid of the things you don't use.

Sometimes it's easier to let go of things you have loved but simply don't need any longer when you know they will be useful for someone in need. The Airman's Attic on base and locations off base, such as charitable thrift stores, will take items and put them to good use for others in our community. So you will be able to say you helped out your family and your community as well as simplifying your life a little bit. It's a win/win.
And now, excuse me, it's time to unpack another box.