Outer Order, Inner Calm
Ratings12
Average rating3.3
15
Ratings12
Average rating3.3
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • In this lovely, easy-to-use illustrated guide to decluttering, the beloved author of The Happiness Project shows us how to take control of our stuff—and, by extension, our lives. Gretchen Rubin knows firsthand that creating order can make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative. But for most of us, a rigid, one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work. When we tailor our approach to suit our own particular challenges and habits, we can find inner calm. With a sense of fun, and a clear idea of what’s realistic for most people, Rubin suggests dozens of manageable tips and tricks for creating a more serene, orderly environment, including: • Never label anything “miscellaneous.” • Ask yourself, “Do I need more than one?” • Don’t aim for minimalism. • Remember: If you can’t retrieve it, you won’t use it. • Stay current with a child’s interests. • Beware the urge to “procrasticlear.” 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.
Reviews with the most likes.
I adore Rubin's other books and her podcast, but this book felt thin as a longtime reader/listener. It would be a good introduction to her works but I had hoped for something a bit more substantive.
I started this book with the library due date looming. Fortunately, this book reads quickly. It seems it is written to get straight to the point. Marie Kondo's Spark Joy uses numerous anecdotes to illustrate her points. In contrast, Rubin often encourages the reader to find one's own path to inner calm. There are few step-by-step instructions for getting organized.
This book will appeal to those who don't like being told to do things in a particular order while still giving guidance for people to reduce clutter and increase calm in their spaces. Those who like specific direction may find this book frustrating.
I like how Rubin lays out the principles and concepts behind decluttering while taking varying personalities into consideration. The format of the book that is generous with space and illustrations makes for a pleasant reading experience.
If you have not read every other Gretchen Rubin book, or you are just looking for some decluttering advice, this may be a good option. If, like me, you've read many of her other books, there is a lot of repetition in this book. It include information from The Four Tendencies and Better Than Before. If I were to recommend just a couple Rubin books, I would choose either the Happiness Project or Happier at Home and Better than Before. If you really just want decision making tactics, then go with The Four Tendencies instead but no one, not even me, needs to read all five?!?
