Joy at Work

March 9, 2020
Kondo (The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up) extends her tidying empire to the workplace with this upbeat collaboration with organizational psychologist Sonenshein (Stretch). The authors contend that tidying one’s workspace is “an epic voyage of self-discovery” and “the first and most effective step toward realizing your vision of a joyful career.” Kondo contributes four chapters and Sonenshein contributes seven, but their voices work well together and the chapters transition seamlessly. First, Kondo instructs readers in tidying their workspace in order to increase efficiency and refocus on their values. (The rule of thumb for stacks of papers: “Discard everything.”) Sonenshein then opines on tidying less tangible matters: digital documents, decisions, and even meetings and teams. Throughout, the recommended method is to view everything at once (nonphysical items should be written on index cards), reflect on what is truly essential or joyful, and strive to eliminate the rest. The authors’ program doesn’t always transfer easily to the complexities of a workplace (most of their advice will only apply to those who work strictly at a desk) and certain topics—such as taming one’s inbox—receive inadequate attention. Even so, any cubicle-dwelling Kondo-phile will appreciate this inviting guide.

Joy at work? The concept may seem a stretch for many, but as the authors explain, there are concrete ways to bring Marie Kondo's renowned tidying strategies to the workplace. American actress Brittany Ishibashi performs the segments written by Kondo in a convincing and encouraging tone. Sonenshein's chapters are narrated by Dan Woren, who is excellent at clearly delivering the recommendations and the theories behind them. Ishibashi chimes in on Woren's chapters with Kondo's personal stories. Asking yourself if a work document, email, or task sparks joy may seem silly; nonetheless, listeners may find themselves with a sudden urge to start tidying even while they're listening. E.Q. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine