HOW TO SPARK JOY THE MARIE KONDO METHOD

WHERE TO START

Cleaning up has to be done in order. For tidying the workspace, begin by tidying your books, then papers, followed by komono – any miscellaneous objects – and, lastly, sentimental items. Pile each item on each spot and decide which ones to keep.

UNTIDY PAPERS

The rule of thumb for papers is to discard everything. My clients always look dumbfounded when I say this. Of course, I don’t mean eliminate papers entirely. Sort them by category and file them in a filing cabinet or in file folders on a shelf. If you don’t need to keep the originals, you can scan them and store them electronically.

DESIGNER FUN

Don’t think of it as “tidying”. Tell yourself that you’re designing a joyful place to work, more like decorating. Choosing, for example, pens that spark joy for you. And not just pens. Penholders, scissors or sticky tape – make sure they are ones that you love.

DIGITAL TIDY

Don’t just tidy your physical space. Get a handle on your digital space. Keep your phone and laptop tidy. Do it category by category, starting with documents, followed by emails, and finally smartphone apps.

GETTING PERSONAL

Ask if your personal item sparks joy if you keep it at your desk. If your response is that it once supported you in your work but you no longer need it, thank it for what it gave you, and let it go with gratitude. For those who find tidying up sentimental items difficult, try taking a photo before letting them go.

AND FINALLY…

Ask yourself: Do I need this document to get my job done? Will this document provide guidance or inspiration for future work? Does this document spark joy? If the answer is no to all these, delete it. However, be sure to follow any document policy at your organisation.