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4 Tips from Marie Kondo to Spark Joy at the Office

Covid-19 has forever changed the way companies operate; as we slowly transition into a post-pandemic world, the future of work for many will be splitting time between returning to an office and a home workspace.

If you’re still struggling with creating an organized and inspired workspace, these tips from Marie Kondo may help!

The New York Times best-selling author and inventor of the KonMari method of organization offer some simple steps on creating an environment that not only helps you focus but inspires your best work.

Commit to Tidying Up  

Studies prove how clutter overwhelms the brain and compromises the ability to take initiative – ultimately decreasing productivity.

First, identify all essential items needed to get your work done and designate a spot for them. Then, move all unrelated items off your workspace and add one thing that sparks joy when you look at it. This simple step will create a calm and uncluttered workspace and offer a creative and productive boost.

Just think about all the time you’ll save looking for things in an uncluttered workspace.

Imagine your Ideal Workspace

Regardless of the size of your office, it’s essential to ask yourself,

“How do you want to work?”

“What’s your ideal workday like in this space?”

Having that mental image as a goal is very important in creating a space that functions best for you and your needs.

Create Daily Rituals

Before opening that laptop and starting your workday, take a moment to center yourself. Kondo says this will help get you into a “work” mindset, especially working from home. Kondo adds. “I strike a tuning fork and diffuse essential oils to signal to my body that I’m switching gears.”

You can also create a routine to signal an end to your workday. Try turning off notifications, turning on some music, and putting your laptop away, so you’re not tempted to answer one more email.

Schedule Downtime

We tend to take more breaks when we’re working from an office compared to working from home. Who else finds themselves barely leaving their chair on a WFH day?

To avoid burnout, schedule your downtime. “Block out windows in your calendar each week to turn off notifications, take a walk, or simply let your mind wander. Your creativity will be replenished, and your brain will be sharper for it.”

And remember if there are parts of your workspace that don’t spark joy, you’re better off without it.