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Writer's pictureClaire Brady

How to Marie Kondo your workspace

I often spend more focused time in my workspace than I do at home. Embracing the philosophy that every item should have its designated place transcends mere tidiness; it fundamentally enhances work efficiency and contributes to mental well-being.


Various approaches exist for organizing workspaces, but I find Marie Kondo's methods particularly resonant. Her philosophy encourages the creation of environments that not only function well but also spark joy. In the hustle of our daily routines, integrating this sense of joy into our workspaces is not just beneficial; it's essential. Her approach transforms ordinary spaces into inspiring and uplifting environments, making our time at work more enjoyable and fulfilling.


Here are some tips for creating calm, inspiring, and functional workspaces:


Declutter Regularly: Begin by decluttering. As Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” advises, keep only those items that 'spark joy' or are essential for your work【1】. This process not only frees up physical space but also helps in reducing mental clutter.


Zoning Your Desk: Divide your desk into zones. The primary zone should contain items you use daily, while the secondary zone can hold less frequently used items. According to a study by Princeton University Neuroscience Institute, physical clutter in your surroundings competes for your attention, resulting in decreased performance and increased stress【2】.


Ergonomics Matter: Invest in ergonomic furniture. A comfortable chair and a desk at the right height can prevent strain and improve focus. The podcast “The Science of Happiness” discusses how our physical environment affects our well-being, emphasizing the importance of comfort in productivity【3】.


Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements. Plants can enhance mood and reduce stress, as reported in a study by the University of Hyogo in Japan【4】. Even a small desk plant can have a calming effect and improve air quality.


Personal Touches: Add personal touches that make you feel at ease. This could be photographs, artwork, or a favorite quote. A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that personalizing workspace improves mood and reduces burnout【5】.


Organizational Tools: Use organizational tools like drawer dividers, cable organizers, and document holders. These tools can keep your space tidy and save time spent searching for items.


Set Intentions: Marie Kondo recommends setting intentions into your workspace. "Maybe you hope to earn a raise or promotion in the near future or have been laying the groundwork to launch your own company. Keep these ambitions in mind as you consider how your workspace can best serve you. You will feel inspired to design a space that will allow you to work toward your biggest dreams every day" (Marie Kondo, 2023).


Add Joy: Marie Kondo recommends placing one item on your desk that is bound to spark joy, be it a small trinket or a lively element like a plant or vase of flowers.


An organized workspace is more than just a clean space; it's about creating an environment conducive to productivity and mental clarity. Regular decluttering, effective zoning, ergonomic setup, natural elements, personalization, and the use of organizational tools are key to achieving this balance.


Resources:

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo.

Joy at Work, by Marie Kondo and Scott Sonenshein.



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