The Digital Organizing Lesson Hidden in an Old Farm Saying

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” It’s a wise little warning not to assume everything will turn out perfectly just because the plan is in place.

And while this saying usually applies to life or business goals, it’s surprisingly fitting for how we handle our digital lives.

Too often, we assume everything is “fine” on our computers, in our inboxes, and floating around in the cloud. We assume we’ll find that file when we need it. We assume we backed things up properly. We assume our digital world will stay under control... until it’s not.

When Assumptions Lead to Clutter

Digital disorganization often starts with good intentions and a few risky assumptions. Like:

• “I’ll remember where I saved that.”

• “I can always search for it later.”

• “My files are automatically backed up, right?”

• “I’ll sort this out when I have more time.”

These are the digital version of counting unhatched chickens. We act like everything will work out perfectly, without putting the systems in place to actually support that outcome.

And then comes the scramble. You can’t find the document. You lose precious photos. Your inbox is an overflowing mess, and the idea of tackling it makes you want to slam your laptop shut.

False Security in the Cloud

Cloud storage has made it easier than ever to feel like things are organized, even when they aren’t. But relying on default settings and auto-syncing without regular check-ins is a recipe for digital stress.

For example:

• Files saved in one location but not synced properly across devices.

• Multiple versions of the same document scattered in Downloads, Desktop, and cloud folders.

• Photos that didn’t upload because your storage hit a limit.

• Important emails buried under hundreds of unread newsletters.

It’s not that cloud services are bad. They're incredibly useful. But they work best when you’re clear about what’s where and why.

What It Looks Like to Tend the Nest

Instead of counting on digital perfection, we need to tend the nest. That means treating your digital life like something that needs a little care and attention, before chaos hatches.

Here are a few gentle shifts that make a big difference:

1. Back Up With Intention

Don’t assume backups are happening—check them. Whether it’s using an external drive, cloud service, or both, make sure your files are secure and accessible.

2. Name and Contain

Give files clear, consistent names. Create folders that reflect how you search for things. If you’re looking for something later, make it easy on your future self.

3. Declutter as You Go

Every time you save a file, ask yourself: Do I need this? If not, delete it. If yes, file it away right then and there (or put it in a temporary "To Be Filed" folder). This habit alone can save you hours down the line.

4. Pause Before You Download or Save

Not everything needs to live on your computer forever. Be selective about what you keep.

5. Audit Your Systems Occasionally

Set a reminder once a season to check on your digital “nest.” Are your folders still working for you? Is your inbox manageable? Are your backups up to date?

Organization That Sticks

You don’t need fancy software or complicated systems. You need clarity and consistency. That’s what makes your digital world easier to manage, less overwhelming, and way more aligned with how you want to feel each day.

When you stop assuming and start organizing with intention, you create a digital life that supports you instead of stressing you out.

So don’t count your digital chickens before they hatch.

Tend the nest.

And give yourself the calm and clarity you deserve.

Ready for Support?

If your digital files, emails, or cloud storage feel more scrambled than structured, you're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out on your own.

Explore my CHANGES™ Process for a step-by-step approach to organizing your paper and digital life, or check out Sensibly Organized Membership for tools and support you can access anytime.