Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Rubin

Last updated: Sep 16, 2023

Summary of Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Rubin

Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Rubin is a self-help book that explores the relationship between our external environment and our internal state of mind. The author argues that by decluttering and organizing our physical spaces, we can achieve a greater sense of calm and happiness in our lives.

Rubin begins by highlighting the benefits of outer order, such as increased productivity, reduced stress, and improved relationships. She emphasizes that outer order is highly personal and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is important to understand our own preferences and tendencies when it comes to organizing.

The book provides practical strategies and tips for decluttering and organizing different areas of our lives, including our homes, workspaces, digital spaces, and even our schedules. Rubin encourages readers to start small and focus on one area at a time, as tackling too much at once can be overwhelming.

She suggests various techniques for decluttering, such as the "one-minute rule" (if a task takes less than a minute, do it immediately), the "power hour" (dedicating an hour to decluttering), and the "clutter-clearing habit" (regularly setting aside time to declutter). Rubin also emphasizes the importance of creating designated spaces for items and implementing systems to maintain order.

In addition to physical clutter, the book also addresses mental and emotional clutter. Rubin discusses the benefits of letting go of grudges, forgiving others, and practicing gratitude. She also explores the concept of decision fatigue and offers strategies for simplifying our choices to reduce mental clutter.

Throughout the book, Rubin shares personal anecdotes, insights from experts, and quotes from literature to illustrate her points. She acknowledges that maintaining outer order is an ongoing process and that setbacks are normal. However, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the long-term benefits of a clutter-free life.

In conclusion, Outer Order, Inner Calm is a comprehensive guide to decluttering and organizing our physical and mental spaces. It offers practical advice, personal stories, and thought-provoking insights to help readers achieve a greater sense of calm and happiness in their lives.

1. The Power of Outer Order

In her book, Gretchen Rubin emphasizes the importance of outer order in achieving inner calm. She explains that clutter and disorganization can drain our energy and create a sense of chaos in our lives. By taking control of our physical environment and creating order, we can experience a greater sense of calm and clarity.

Rubin provides practical tips and strategies for decluttering and organizing our spaces, such as creating designated homes for items, letting go of things that no longer serve us, and establishing daily habits to maintain order. By implementing these practices, we can create a more peaceful and harmonious environment that supports our well-being.

2. The One-Minute Rule

A simple yet powerful concept introduced in the book is the "one-minute rule." This rule suggests that if a task takes less than one minute to complete, we should do it immediately rather than putting it off. By following this rule, we can prevent small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

For example, instead of leaving a dirty dish in the sink, we can quickly wash it. Instead of tossing our clothes on the floor, we can hang them up or put them in the laundry basket. By consistently applying the one-minute rule, we can maintain a sense of order and prevent clutter from accumulating.

3. The Power of Small Steps

Rubin emphasizes the importance of taking small, manageable steps towards creating outer order. She suggests that instead of attempting to tackle a massive decluttering project all at once, we should break it down into smaller tasks.

By focusing on one area or category at a time, we can make progress without feeling overwhelmed. For example, we can start by decluttering a single drawer or shelf, and then gradually move on to larger areas. This approach allows us to build momentum and experience a sense of accomplishment, which can motivate us to continue decluttering and organizing.

4. The Benefits of Letting Go

Rubin explores the benefits of letting go of possessions that no longer serve us. She explains that holding onto things out of guilt, fear, or a sense of obligation can weigh us down and prevent us from experiencing true inner calm.

By decluttering and letting go of items that no longer bring us joy or serve a purpose, we create space for new opportunities and experiences. Letting go can be liberating and allow us to focus on what truly matters in our lives.

5. The Importance of Outer Order for Inner Creativity

Rubin highlights the connection between outer order and inner creativity. She explains that a cluttered and disorganized environment can hinder our ability to think clearly and be creative.

By creating a visually pleasing and organized space, we can stimulate our creativity and enhance our productivity. Rubin suggests that by surrounding ourselves with objects that inspire and uplift us, we can tap into our creative potential and experience a greater sense of fulfillment.

6. The Role of Habits in Maintaining Outer Order

Rubin emphasizes the importance of establishing daily habits to maintain outer order. She explains that by incorporating small, consistent actions into our routines, we can prevent clutter from accumulating and maintain a sense of order.

For example, she suggests making the bed every morning, tidying up before going to bed, and putting things away immediately after using them. By making these habits a part of our daily lives, we can effortlessly maintain a clutter-free environment.

7. The Connection Between Outer Order and Inner Happiness

Rubin explores the link between outer order and inner happiness. She explains that by taking control of our physical environment and creating order, we can experience a greater sense of happiness and well-being.

When our surroundings are cluttered and chaotic, it can create a sense of unease and dissatisfaction. By decluttering and organizing, we can create a space that supports our happiness and allows us to thrive.

8. The Importance of Self-Knowledge in Creating Outer Order

Rubin emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge in creating outer order. She explains that what works for one person may not work for another, and it's essential to understand our own preferences and tendencies.

By understanding our organizing style, whether we are minimalists or collectors, and our habits, we can create systems and strategies that align with our individual needs. This self-awareness allows us to create an environment that supports our well-being and inner calm.