Marie Kondo's philosophy has found its way to my writing business
My new approach to decluttering my projects
In 2024, I'm applying the philosophy of Japanese organizing consultant and author Marie Kondo to my writing business.
If my work doesn't "spark joy," it's time to say goodbye.
🌟 A client that doesn’t bring me joy? Farewell.
🌟 A project that feels like a chore? Ciao.
🌟 A product that doesn't align with me? Adios.
After over 25 years of navigating jobs, I’m drawing the line. It's more than a business decision; it's a commitment to my mental health and happiness.
Marie Kondo's mantra isn’t just about tidying spaces—it's about cherishing what truly brings us joy.
This year, I’m not just decluttering my workspace but also my professional life.
Challenges along the way
Adopting this approach hasn't been without its challenges. Turning down projects can be scary, especially when they're financially tempting. But I've learned that the value of joy and personal satisfaction in work far exceeds short-term gains.
A guide to choosing joy in your professional life
Reflect on what gives you a “high”: Take time to understand what aspects of your work make you happy.
Assess your current projects and clients: Evaluate which ones align with your joy and which don't. The ones that give you a rush of adrenaline when you work on them, the ones that make you feel good about yourself and your talents and skills. The ones that make you feel you got this.
Make tough decisions: Be prepared to let go of the projects or clients that don't bring you joy. To use a cliched phrase, “life is too short.” It’s too short to suffer through projects you don’t like when you own your business and when you're the ultimate decision-maker, your own boss. Let go of the scarcity mentality. Better things will come.
Embrace the new space: Use the newfound time and energy to pursue projects that excite you. This might be a bit woo-woo, but try to operate from an abundance mindset.
The path of a solopreneur can be risky but worth taking for the sake of my well-being.
Because at the end of the day, it’s possible to find happiness and still pay the bills.
Don't settle for less.
Choose joy.
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