Marie Kondo Swears by This Ritual for Getting Into Work Mode at Home

As we’re all searching for ways to boost productivity while working from home, it’s time to look to the experts for some advice—and who better to provide wisdom than Marie Kondo. The decluttering pro and sushi party advocate seems to permanently reside in a world of organized zen. Plus, she’s set to release her first-ever book dedicated to sparking joy in the workplace, so she’s an ideal candidate to shed some light on how to make the most of a makeshift office, whether you’ve got a dedicated space or just turned your dresser into a standing desk. 

For Kondo, the key lies in ritual. “That way, you’re transitioning from your personal home life to work,” she explains. The first way she does this is through scent: She spritzes her home office with a dedicated fragrance—currently, her go-to is peppermint. We recommend picking an essential oil that matches the environment you want to create: eucalyptus for an energy boost, bergamot for increased focus, or lavender if it’s relaxation you’re after (it has been proven to help with anxiety and soothe nerves, something we could all use help with as we sort through our inboxes).

Her second trick? “I also ring my trusty tuner—that’s how I know it’s time to work,” she adds. She strikes her tuning fork against a crystal and waves it slowly around the room to quiet her thoughts and take in the energy of the space. It’s a simple practice that she says helps her feel centered and calm. 

Oh, and one more thing. If you can, avoid working from your bed. Kondo recommends setting up camp somewhere with a hard surface, even if that’s your dining room table or kitchen counter, to help you switch your mind-set. Silver lining: This way you’ll be closer to the snacks. 

Terracotta Stone Diffuser, Vitruvi ($119)

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Tuning Fork & Smoky Quartz Crystal, KonMari ($75)

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See more tips to make working remotely easier: Hide Your Laundry Pile From Your Coworkers With West Elm’s Stylish Zoom Backgrounds The Design Secrets You Need to Know If You Work From Home I Quit My Office Job to Freelance—Here’s How I Maximize Working From Home