Should You Create in Cleanliness or Clutter?

The debate if one should create in cleanliness or clutter has been around for a long time. I would argue that it doesn’t matter. If one or the other keeps you from creating, then change it. But, it shouldn’t be a debate whether one is better than the other, because it is a personal preference.

Here’s Einstein’s take on it:

I personally prefer a clean desk, but sometimes things pile up. But again, it’s just a personal preference. I believe excuses like this one keeps us from creating our best work. I know it has kept me from putting forth my best work many times. Thoughts like, “once I organize my office I will…”, or “once I get a new computer I will…”, or “once I create a new filing system, I will…” can come, and I will get busy with everything else besides what I really need to be doing. Excuses like to change our course of direction to less important tasks if we allow them to, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Whether better ideas come to you in cleanliness or clutter, just go create. That’s what really matters.