Mise en Place in Real Life: 3 Situations to Use It and 3 to Avoid
Ever watched a chef in action and thought, “How do they make it look so easy?” The secret is something called mise en place (say it like: mee-zon-plas). It’s a fancy French term that means “putting things in place.” Before they even turn on the stove, everything like chopped veggies, spices, tools is ready to go. No last-minute scrambling. But here’s the fun part: mise en place isn’t just for kitchens. It’s a powerful trick you can use in your everyday life too at work, during your morning routine, even while planning a party. And still, it’s not always the best idea. Some situations actually work better when you don’t over-prepare. So, when should you plan like a pro, and when is it okay to just jump in? Let’s break it down with 3 times to use mise en place in real life, and 3 times to skip it.
3 Situations Where Using Mise en Place in Real Life Makes It Easier
Focused Work or Study Sessions
Ever find yourself starting a task and then constantly getting up for a pen, water, or charger? That’s lost time and energy.
How to prep:
Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need. That means your laptop charger, notebook, relevant files, even a snack if it’s a long session.
Why it works:
You stay in the zone. No unnecessary breaks. Just deep, focused work.
Hosting Guests or Planning Events
Ever hosted a dinner where you spent more time in the kitchen than with your guests? That’s what we’re avoiding.
How to prep:
Set the table early, prep ingredients ahead, and make a checklist of what needs to be done before people arrive.
Why it works:
You stay present, relaxed, and ready to enjoy your own event.
Content Creation (Reels, Blogs, or Videos)
Creative content might feel spontaneous, but behind every great post is some solid planning.
How to prep:
Have your script, props, camera setup, and music ready before hitting record. For writing, gather research, structure your post, and set up a distraction-free space.
Why it works:
You save time during editing, reduce retakes, and bring your creative vision to life more smoothly and confidently.
3 Situations Where Mise en Place in real life Might Slow You Down
Quick, Simple Tasks
Not every task needs prep. Folding two shirts or replying to three emails doesn’t require setting the stage.
If the setup takes longer than the task itself, just start.
Casual Conversations or Social Interactions
Imagine rehearsing a script before catching up with a friend. Awkward, right? Real, honest conversations thrive on spontaneity and flow. Over-preparing can make interactions feel forced or unnatural.
Your Casual Hobby Time
If you’re sketching for fun, strumming a guitar, or doing light journaling, you don’t need a full setup with color-coded tools and scented candles. Over-prepping turns a relaxing hobby into a to-do list. Sometimes “messy” is the point.
Final Takeaway | Mise en Place in Real Life
Mise en place is an effective tool but it’s not a law. Use it when it helps you feel calm, organized, and in control. Skip it when it gets in the way of creativity, spontaneity, or speed. Think of it like seasoning; just the right amount can elevate everything. Too much, and it overwhelms the dish. So the next time you’re about to start something, ask yourself:
Do I need a little mise en place, or can I dive right in?
Further insights, read Work Clean by Dan Charnas https://amzn.to/3HzsHSP
Read also : 5 Quick Tips to Avoid Cherry Picking https://thebrightdelights.com/5-quick-tips-to-avoid-cherry-picking/