Productivity Secrets from Marie Kondo’s Method

Marie Kondo is a Japanese author and tidying expert, best known for her bestselling book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, which became a phenomenon in Japan, Europe, and the U.S.

In April 2020, she released Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life, where she offers advice on how to bring order to your workspace and schedule—and how to enjoy your work more.

Here are 5 key tips from Marie Kondo:

1. Rituals
   Start your workday with a simple personal ritual. For Kondo, it’s turning on an essential oil diffuser with a scent that signals it’s time to focus. Yours might be a cup of coffee, a short workout, or a favorite song.
   This is especially useful if you work from home to mentally separate work and personal time.

2. A Tidy Desk
   A clean workspace is essential for focus and reduced stress. Keep only what you need for the day, plus one item that sparks joy—like a flower vase.
   Once a month, set aside time to declutter your desk and discard what no longer brings joy or serves a purpose.

3. Digital Decluttering
   Remove digital clutter—old files, unread emails, useless apps, and unneeded subscriptions. Keep only the digital content that sparks joy and supports your work.

4. Prioritization
   Focus on long-term important tasks, not just urgent interruptions. Choose projects that truly inspire you and bring inner joy.

5. Planned Breaks
   Rest is crucial for productivity. Schedule regular breaks and fill them with activities that relax and uplift you, like reading, walking, or music.
   Balance between work, rest, and family life is key to sustainable productivity.