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.

March 1, 2020
Kondo brings the philosophy of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up (2014) to the office, with organizational psychologist Sonenshein (Stretch, 2017) as coauthor. They begin with the case for tidiness, citing studies and client feedback as evidence of its success. Devotees of Kondo's work will be familiar with the basic procedure: sort things into categories, ask a set of questions, then decide to keep each item or thank it for its service. But this guide goes beyond managing excess sticky notes. The authors advocate tidying digital, mental, and organizational messes, too. Readers who dream of a neat email inbox will find a process to follow. Any reader who has spent more time in a meeting than was strictly necessary (everyone, probably) will be interested in the chapters on tidying one's schedule. Ultimately, tidiness will enable the worker to focus on what sparks joy at work, making them happier and more productive. The gentle tone and clear, simple language make the task of creating a tidy work life seem less daunting, and the idea of embracing work with purpose a joyful one. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Remember how many holds were placed on The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up? That will probably happen again.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)