Outer Order, Inner Calm is a book written by Gretchen Rubin, a bestselling author and habits expert. The book explores the connection between physical surroundings and mental state. Rubin argues that by creating order in our surroundings, we can achieve inner calm and reduce stress. In this book, Rubin provides practical advice on how to declutter and organize our homes, as well as how to establish routines and habits that promote a sense of order and calm.
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1: The Importance of Outer Order
In the first chapter of Outer Order, Inner Calm, Rubin introduces the concept of outer order and how it relates to inner calm. She explains that by creating order in our physical surroundings, we can reduce stress and achieve a sense of calm. Rubin also discusses the importance of establishing routines and habits that promote order and calm.
Chapter 2: The Power of Possession
In the second chapter, Rubin explores the idea of possession and how it relates to outer order. She explains that possessions can create clutter and chaos, which can lead to stress and anxiety. Rubin provides practical advice on how to declutter and organize possessions, including how to get rid of items that are no longer needed or useful.
Chapter 3: The Habit of Clearing
In the third chapter, Rubin discusses the importance of establishing a habit of clearing. She explains that by clearing our surroundings on a regular basis, we can prevent clutter from building up and create a sense of order and calm. Rubin provides practical advice on how to establish a clearing routine and how to make clearing a habit.
Chapter 4: The Art of the Six-Month Rule
In the fourth chapter, Rubin introduces the six-month rule, which is a guideline for determining whether or not to keep an item. She explains that if an item has not been used or worn in the past six months, it is likely that it can be let go of. Rubin provides practical advice on how to apply the six-month rule to different areas of life, including clothing, books, and possessions.
Chapter 5: The Dangers of the Inner Critic
In the fifth chapter, Rubin discusses the inner critic and how it can sabotage efforts to achieve outer order. She explains that the inner critic can cause us to feel guilty or shameful about decluttering and organizing, which can prevent us from achieving a sense of calm. Rubin provides practical advice on how to silence the inner critic and how to approach decluttering and organizing with a positive mindset.
Chapter 6: The Importance of Control
In the sixth chapter, Rubin explores the idea of control and how it relates to outer order. She explains that by having control over our surroundings, we can reduce stress and anxiety. Rubin provides practical advice on how to establish control over different areas of life, including time management, finances, and possessions.
Chapter 7: The Power of the One-Minute Rule
In the seventh chapter, Rubin introduces the one-minute rule, which is a guideline for determining whether or not to take care of a task. She explains that if a task can be completed in one minute or less, it should be done immediately. Rubin provides practical advice on how to apply the one-minute rule to different areas of life, including email management, household chores, and paperwork.
Chapter 8: The Habit of Returning
In the eighth chapter, Rubin discusses the habit of returning and how it relates to outer order. She explains that by returning items to their proper place, we can create a sense of order and calm. Rubin provides practical advice on how to establish a habit of returning and how to make returning a part of daily routine.
Conclusion
Overall, Outer Order, Inner Calm is a practical and insightful book that provides readers with practical advice on how to create order in their surroundings and achieve inner calm. Rubin’s advice is easy to follow and can be applied to different areas of life. By decluttering and organizing our surroundings, we can reduce stress and anxiety and achieve a sense of calm. If you are looking for a book that will help you create order in your life, Outer Order, Inner Calm is a must-read.
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