russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.

Joy at Work

summary ofJoy at WorkBook by Marie Kondo, Scott Sonenshein

12 min
00:00
/
00:00
Get full summary

You’ll learn

  • How disarray impacts your mental state
  • The biology behind chaos-induced stress
  • Strategies for taming digital disorder
  • Secrets to aligning your time with core values

first KEY POINT

Declutter to discover

Have you ever felt swamped by countless emails and never-ending tasks? That moment when a barrage of documents leaves you feeling disconnected from what truly inspires you? We've all experienced seemingly never-ending meetings, some tougher than others, that divert our attention from our main goal.This problem is more than just a messy desk or disorganized computer files. It's about work-induced exhaustion, leading us to wonder, “Is this all my job is about? Just tasks, deadlines, and duties?”The good news is that tidying up can help you find clarity amid the chaos. It's about more than keeping a clean space. It's about the ability to structure the different elements of your work life — from managing your digital footprint to refining your decision-making and professional associations. Moreover, organizing will help you define your values and set the right priorities in your work and personal life.

A clear space fosters a focused mind.

Yet for many, organizing turns into a whirlpool of challenges: “I don't have time,” or “I've tried, but it just doesn't stick.” Some feel like they're anchored to their present job, thinking that no degree of organization can change the tide.But consider that tidying goes far beyond an efficient workplace. It prompts self-reflection and reveals passion. You learn to see more clearly and better understand the consequences of your actions.When the weight of chaos feels heavy, remember that decluttering is your compass to a fresh start.Here, you will discover stories and examples of people who have reclaimed their focus and harmony in various aspects of their lives. So, let's begin this transformational journey to a more organized space!

second KEY POINT

Untangling work chaos

Imagine stepping into the office to a messy and chaotic desk. Papers scattered, paper clips strewn about, unopened mail piling up from days ago, untouched books, and a laptop screen hidden behind a forest of sticky notes. This kind of disarray can turn even the simplest tasks into Herculean challenges.Look at Aki, a real estate agency employee whose cluttered workspace mirrors missed opportunities and daily struggles. Her lost glasses, misplaced documents, and perpetual promises to “sort it tomorrow" become metaphors for our own work environments. Her story reveals a profound truth — chaos doesn't just reside on desks; it trickles into our spirits, dampening our enthusiasm and narrowing our vision.While some might argue that disorder boosts creativity, research suggests that disorganization elevates cortisol levels, leading to underlying stress. Hence, clutter translates into stress, slowing our cognitive processes and amplifying the complexities of mundane tasks.

book cover

Continue reading with Headway app

Continue reading

Full summary is waiting for you in the app

first KEY POINT

Crafting productive spaces

second KEY POINT

Time tricks & decision wins

third KEY POINT

Nurturing genuine connections

fourth KEY POINT

The ripple effect of workplace joy

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Marie Kondo is an organization expert, and the founder of KonMari Media, Inc. Scott Sonenshein is a professor of Management at Rice University and a New York Times best-selling author.

Join 55+ million learners worldwide

172K 5 reviews on App Store and Google Play

Get started

Frequently asked questions

What is 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' about?

'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' is a book by Marie Kondo that focuses on decluttering and organizing your workspace to boost productivity and happiness. It combines practical organizing tips with the philosophy of finding joy in your work environment.

What are the key takeaways from 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life'?

Key takeaways from 'Joy at Work' include the importance of tidying your work space, only keeping what sparks joy, and creating an environment that fosters creativity and efficiency. Kondo's principles encourage readers to embrace a more joyful and organized approach to their professional lives.

Is 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' worth reading?

Yes, 'Joy at Work' is worth reading if you're looking to enhance your productivity and reduce stress in the workplace. Marie Kondo's insights and practical tips can be highly beneficial for anyone aiming to create a more enjoyable and efficient work environment.

How many pages is 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' and when was it published?

'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' is 272 pages long and was published on March 31, 2020. This length makes it a manageable read for anyone interested in improving their work organization and overall job satisfaction.

Who is the author of 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life'?

The author of 'Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life' is Marie Kondo, a renowned organizing consultant and author known for her bestselling book 'The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.' Kondo's unique approach to organization focuses on fostering joy and order in both personal and professional spaces.