I’ve been thinking a lot about routines lately—not the kind you read about in productivity blogs, but the quiet, personal rhythms that shape our days without fanfare.
For over sixteen years, one of my most meaningful routines was walking our dog, Peppermint. Just a simple walk through our neighborhood, but it grounded me. No matter how unpredictable the rest of the day was, that ritual offered a familiar touchpoint—a bit of peace and connection.
Peppermint passed away this week. And while I’ve experienced grief before, this one’s hitting differently. She was a small dog with a big presence in our home, and without her, everything feels just a little…off. I caught myself in the airport yesterday when I saw a white dog that looked like her. That moment—unexpected and sharp—reminded me just how much those daily rituals matter.
It’s made me reflect on the idea of neatness—not as tidiness for the sake of appearance, but as an act of care. An organized space. A thoughtful document. A consistent routine. These are all small ways we show respect—for others, for ourselves, for the people (and pets) we love.
Neatness isn’t about control or perfection. It’s about being present. It’s about honoring the things and the people who shape our lives, even in the smallest of ways.
First Impressions—and Lasting Impact
When I think about professionalism, I often go back to the power of first impressions. But this week, I’m reminded that it’s not just the first impression that matters—it’s the lasting ones.
Whether we’re sending a quick note to a colleague, leading a meeting, or sharing a project with our team, the way we show up leaves a mark. Neatness—through thoughtful organization, clear communication, or a respectful tone—isn’t about making things look good. It’s about making things work for the people around us. It communicates care, attention, and trust.
Consistency in an Inconsistent World
In leadership—just like in life—there are few things we can truly control. Markets shift. Plans change. Teams evolve. But one thing we can control is how consistently we show up.
Peppermint reminded me of that. She didn’t know my calendar or deadlines. But she knew when it was time for a walk. She knew the rhythm of our home, even as it changed over the years. Her consistency gave me a sense of stability I didn’t always know I needed.
As leaders, the small things we do with intention—the way we prepare a meeting agenda, respond to emails, keep our workspace in order—these actions build a sense of reliability for those around us. And when the world feels unpredictable, reliability is a gift.
A Leadership Challenge
So here’s my challenge—for myself, and maybe for you, too:
Take a moment today to tidy up something that matters. Not because it’s messy, but because it deserves your attention. Maybe it’s a note you’ve been meaning to write. A conversation you need to revisit. A folder on your desktop. A morning routine that’s fallen off track.
These acts of neatness aren’t just about getting things in order—they’re about making space for what (and who) matters most.
Because neatness counts. In memory. In leadership. And in life.
