Order of Operations

Take a seat and prepare for some reading material as I regale you with my latest home maintenance adventure: tackling my 1950s vintage-style bathroom.

For a while, I noticed the shower wall was starting to look wonky, and by this, I mean it looked like the tiles would disintegrate at any moment. True to my nature, I kept putting off the necessary repairs. You’d think I’d know better by now—after all, I often extol the virtues of dealing with problems when they are small. But, in the classic “Judi doesn’t deal well with home maintenance issues” fashion, I let it slide.

Except I really couldn’t because, well, it’s my bathroom, and I’m in there several times a day.

Somewhere along the way, I got it in my head that I needed to have the bathtub and shower reglazed. All this without really even understanding what “reglazing” meant. I mean, it sounded like a grand solution!

Finally, after talking with my therapist—I mean my hairdresser, Marie—I finally called a professional, who kindly informed me after looking at pictures and video of the bathroom that I had an “order of operations problem.” Instead of jumping straight to reglazing, I needed to address the underlying issues, specifically the compromised tile.

Oops.

Sometimes, we get so caught up in what seems like the glamorous fix that we overlook the foundational work that needs to happen first.

As you might expect, while deep in my thoughts in the bathroom, I realized that this order of operations dilemma also applies to writing. It's tempting to add embellishments or craft a catchy title before solidifying our work's core message and structure. I recall trying to retrofit sales copy around the pithy phrase, “Let’s get you over the finish(ed) line.” So yes, I’m just as guilty as the rest of you!

Like fixing a bathroom, writing requires us to start with a solid foundation—outlining our ideas, developing our themes, and ensuring clarity. When we prioritize these essential steps, we create a much more polished and impactful final piece. 

Then, we can add fun catchphrases as the foundational writing allows.

I’m grateful for the expert guidance that set me on the right path for my bathroom. Now, my vintage bathroom shines like new, and we’ve kept its charming character!

Now, if you find yourself stuck in the weeds of your writing and losing sight of the big picture, don’t let your message go down the drain! Hit reply, and let’s brainstorm how to revamp your words to ensure they resonate!

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The Next Time You Doubt Yourself

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Turkey, Magnets, and Santa