May’s Book Review

Joy at Work- Marie Kondo

The first part of this book was very focused on a tidy desk, the middle jumped into digital clutter, and the back chapters focused on tidying activities, meetings, relationships,etc.

So, let’s talk about the tidying of the physical desk. I felt like the book was too focused on the actual desk. Anyone else constantly on the go? It really doesn’t feel like a “desk”. I work in 3 different buildings, though lately mostly at home. I share a desk at the office and share a workspace at home with my husband. I simply want a peaceful space, which often simply comes from adding headphones! Get some noise cancelling headphones! in fact get everybody headphones, you, your kids, your husband. You’ll be thankful!

I did think about how I would create a quiet workspace and how I would tidy my “work bag” and computer vs. “desk”.

I greatly enjoyed the middle section on digital clutter mainly because it empowers one to “Be the boss of your technology” which I firmly believe. I am excited to try out some new “email office hours” and I am reducing the amount of digital clutter I let in. I realized that I have 230+ apps on my cell phone alone…. what? time to delete some stuff!

Network, meetings, activities, I have really already tidied, so for me, my focus is going to be on new meetings, people, and activities and not letting them overtake self care time. Easy right now with quarantine, but will get harder.

Pros of this book: I love Marie’s method of always asking “does this spark joy?” I use this at home all the time and am going to use it more for work as well. Also appreciate the empowerment to be the boss of your own technology.

Cons of the book: The book was too focused on the “desk” and tactics vs. finding joy in the meaningful work.

I am excited to hear your takeaways. Put your rating on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the most amazing book ever) and any key takeaways you had in the comments!

Ashley’s Overall Rating: 6 out of 10

Enough Good Takeaways to make it worth the read. Here in the link to purchase for anyone who wants to read it!