Outer order contributes to inner calm.
And for most of us, a rigid, one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work.
The fact is, when we tailor our approach to suit our own particular challenges and habits, we're then able to create the order that will make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative.
My guest on today's show - Gretchen Rubin - has found that getting control of our stuff makes us feel more in control of our lives.
By getting rid of things we don't use, don't need, or don't love, we free our minds (and our shelves) for what we truly value. With a sense of fun, and a clear idea of what's realistic for most people, Gretchen suggests dozens of manageable steps for creating a more serene, orderly environment—one that helps us to create the lives we want.
Gretchen is the author of several books, including the blockbuster New York Times bestsellers: Better Than Before: A Day by Day Journal The Happiness Project Happier at Home
And most recently: Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness.
She has an enormous readership, both in print and online, and her books have sold more than three million copies worldwide, in more than thirty languages.
She makes frequent TV appearances and is in much demand as a speaker. On her weekly podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, she discusses good habits and happiness with her sister Elizabeth Craft. Rubin started her career in law and was clerking for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor when she realized she wanted to be a writer. She lives in New York City with her husband and two daughters.
During our discussion, you'll discover: -What inspired Gretchen to write her book...7:40
-If there has been scientific research to substantiate Gretchen's findings...9:00
-The criteria one can use to decide what goes and what stays...11:15
-Whether decluttering is the same as minimalism...18:20
-How to mentally "let go" of things...20:25
-Best practices in shopping online and offline to avoid unnecessary clutter...30:07
-What a "clutter magnet" is, and why it's important...39:25
-How to train children to declutter their personal spaces...43:15
-Whether or not it's important to make your bed every morning...48:00
-Whether or not it's wise to find others to do your decluttering for you...53:25
-And much more! Resources from this episode:
-Book: "Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness" by Gretchen Rubin
-Book: Why We Buy
-Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
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Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Gretchen or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!
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