Main Character Monday: Nicki Mayfield – Perfectly Arranged

Welcome to Main Character Monday. I’m excited to introduce you to Nicki Mayfield from Perfectly Arranged by Liana George. I spent some time with Nicki recently as she shared with me and the rest of the Perfectly Arranged Launch Team her exciting and unexpected journey. Thank you for joining me.

If you could choose only one thing to buy without money being an issue, what would you buy?

Since a shopping spree at my favorite place, The Container Store, would consist of a lot more than just one item, I’d have to say I’d buy a new car. My current ride, a 2009 Toyota Yaris, has a cracked windshield, a dented door, hubcaps zip tied to the wheels, and a front bumper held on with duct tape. It can be a little suspicious looking when I show up at clients’ homes, so it might be the best use of the money!

Wow! I think you may be right. It’s always good to put your best foot forward when dealing with clients. Besides, that doesn’t sound safe. Next question. The New Testament tells the story of two sisters who react to Jesus visiting in very different ways. Mary chooses to spend her time with him, while Martha chooses to see to the physical details of his visit. Are you more a Mary or Martha?

Oh, I’m definitely a Martha. As a professional organizer, I’m all about planning and details. They are essential for me to do a good job for my clients. However, God’s been showing me the peace and wisdom that comes from being more like Mary and sitting at Jesus’ feet, so I’m trying to lean into that these days.

Growth is rarely easy but always worth it. “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8. How have you lived out this verse in your life? How has it made a difference?

Although I’m a new Christ-follower, I think I’m naturally someone who is merciful and seeks justice, especially for those who can’t help themselves or when a wrong needs to be righted. When I see those things happening, I can’t help but act or do what I can to assist, not for others’ approval but because my heart can’t handle seeing pain and suffering. Walking humbly has been a little harder since I like to take charge, make plans, and get the job done without seeking anyone’s guidance.  But I’m realizing that’s not what God wants us to do or be. He doesn’t need me to be in control and think more importantly of myself and my abilities. He wants me to be an obedient vessel He can use, a servant who walks with Him, not out on my own.

The gift of a tender heart is a wonderful one, although at times I’m sure it makes life more painful. What scripture verse would you claim as a life verse?

Probably Proverbs 16:9 – “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”

As an organizer, I tend to make my own plans then ask God to join me on the journey. However, I’m learning that He has everything perfectly arranged and I need to follow rather than lead. I cling to this Scripture to keep me grounded.

A great reminder. If there was one message you could give those reading this interview, what would that be?

Things aren’t always what they seem, and we shouldn’t be rash to make judgments, especially about people. I’ve done that with my mother and Ms. O’Connor, and I was wrong on both counts. It’s a message I’m seriously taking to heart myself.

What one hobby/interest would you keep if you had to give every other hobby up?

I’d say traveling. Before meeting Ms. O’Connor and accompanying her to China, I’d never left the United States. Now that I’ve had experience engaging with other cultures and peoples, I’m fascinated about the rest of the world. I’m hoping it’s something I can keep doing on a regular basis – that is, if I don’t go crazy at The Container Store too often!

We’re almost done. But before you go, let me ask you a few rapid fire questions just for fun. 

Indoors or outdoors: Indoors

Reading or writing: Reading

Apples or pears: Apples

Early bird or night owl: Night owl

And our last question. Nicki, how would you describe Liana George? Perfectionist, hard-working, kind

Thank you for joining us today. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to get to know you better through the interview and through Perfectly Arranged. Readers, I encourage you to find out more about Liana and Nicki below. Then, use the link to purchase your copy of Perfectly Arranged. 

I hope to see you Wednesday when Liana takes over Wednesday in the Word. If you have questions for Liana or Nicki, leave them in the comments. I’m sure either of the ladies would be happy to answer them!

More about Liana George and Perfectly Arranged:

Liana George is a sought-after speaker, blogger, and author. Before pursuing a career in writing, she was a professional organizer and the former owner of By George Organizing Solutions in Houston, Texas. Her debut novel, Perfectly Arranged, was inspired by one of her eccentric clients and Liana’s love for China, where she lived for two and a half years. When she’s not putting things in order or scribbling away, you can find her reading, traveling, or playing tennis.

Connect with Liana at: www.lianageorge.com or through any of these social media platforms

https://www.facebook.com/LianaGWriter/

https://www.instagram.com/lianaygeorge/

https://www.pinterest.com/liana2404/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB8n4ov17hQo9LN9fRRTTgQ or https://bit.ly/BGOSYTchannel (organizing videos) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf9yjXiFnOS_wTe3dVDKCkwor https://bit.ly/LGWriterYT (writer videos)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liana-george/

Amazon Author page and where you can get your copy of Perfectly Arranged:

Goodreads Author page:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21850379.Liana_George

BookBub Author page:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/liana-george-5a193403-457a-44f5-8e8b-3087edf455b6

Mailing List Landing Page:

https://mailchi.mp/c17c58aaf871/lianageorgelandingpage