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

Creating a home that is both orderly and inviting is the key to happiness, according to Gretchen Rubin’s book, “Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness.” The book offers practical tips for achieving outer order, as well as providing an understanding of why having an orderly environment leads to feelings of inner peace and wellbeing.

Having an orderly environment can provide a sense of relief and control. Without the clutter and messiness, it’s easier to find and focus on what matters. The book explains how a life of “outer order” can create the mental space that allows the pursuit of a life of “inner calm.”

Rubin divides her book into two sections: “Know Yourself” and “Do Yourself.” In “Know Yourself,” she offers an insightful evaluation of the personalities that many of us possess and how these personalities have a direct effect on our desire for outer order. Rubin discusses different methods for organizing and encourages readers to find the ones that best suit their habits and personality.

In the “Do Yourself” section, Rubin encourages readers to identify and focus on the areas in their lives that cause clutter, chaos, and distress. She offers practical advice for addressing these areas, ranging from simple (but effective) ideas such as setting visual reminders of tasks that need to be accomplished to more complex strategies such as setting up systems to avoid forgetfulness and procrastination. Rubin also focuses on making a home more inviting—both functionally and aesthetically—in order to create an environment that adds, rather than detracts, from happiness.

Overall, the book is filled with helpful advice and tips for organizing and maintaining an orderly environment. It’s easy to implement Rubin’s suggestions and her compassionate and friendly attitude towards the reader really shines through.

“Outer Order, Inner Calm” provides an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to take control of the chaos in their lives. It’s an inspiring read and one that is sure to help create the sense of peace needed for true happiness. With her thought-provoking advice, Rubin offers readers the tools to truly transform their lives.