Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness

by Gretchen Rubin

I never had this thing as a child, so I want to have it as an adult.

This thing reminds me of someone I love.

if you don’t need it, love it, or use it, you should probably get rid of it.

Creating order is easier when we take the time to set up properly.

if someone else is driving you crazy with a sudden burst of clutter-clearing, remember, that person may be using outer order to deal with anxiety, sorrow, or anger.

Don’t save mementos that hold no memories for you; don’t keep a keepsake unless you value it.

Consider keeping a “belongs elsewhere” box or shelf where such items can be stored until you’re ready to retrieve them on your way out the door.

REMIND YOURSELF, “I HAVE PLENTY OF ROOM FOR THE THINGS THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO ME.”

Outer order helps us to feel good: we gain a sense of rest, of spaciousness, of organization, of energy.

Outer order helps us no longer to feel bad:

Outer order helps us to feel right:

Outer order helps us to create an atmosphere of growth: