There are hundreds of self-help books out there urging you to de-clutter, clear out the junk and lead a streamlined life. Well they're right.
Your life is a system, with inputs, processing and outputs. Your possessions, living environment and finances are all an extension of this system. Thinking of your life as a lean manufacturing system means we can move beyond the truisms of "de-cluttering" and implement a ground-up methodology for organising your living space. This is particularly suitable for people working from home but can be applied to any domestic environment with equal force.
The five S's (each one is a Japanese word) has been implemented in world-class manufacturing organisations to streamline processes and boost efficiency. It's not just about a spring clean, but the simplification of processes and physical space to get the results you want.
Phase 1 - Seiri - Sorting - Segregate your possessions. Keep on the essential items. Discard the rest.
Phase 2 - Seiton - Systemise - Remodel your work or living space in a way that promotes maximum efficiency. A place for everything and everything in its self.
Phase 3 - Seiso or Sanitise - Clean and tidy on a DAILY basis.
Phase 4 - Seikestsu - Standardise - Have a stamdard way of approaching key tasks (like mowing the lawn). A set procedure is just a shorthand that allows you to complete repetitive tasks with minimal additional mental effort.
Phase 5 - Shitsuke - Self-discipline - This is about sustaining the gain. One the previous 4S's are in place, they should become standard operating procedure. Don't allow slippage or backsliding.
As the old truism goes, habits are the worst of masters and the best of servants. A good example is the clear desk policy at work - for the past five years, I have finished every working day with a totally clear desk. Now I just have to apply that on my desk at home!
