It’s time to “tidy up” your credit union

Last year, when I was getting ready to move, I was introduced to an amazing book. You may have heard of it: The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo. It went through quite the rage last year – it seemed like you couldn’t look at Pinterest or Facebook without mention of the KonMari Method.

Now, if you haven’t read the book, I am sure “tidying” doesn’t sound like something magical to you. It didn’t to me either. This seemed like a silly title for a book, and I was beyond skeptical when it was recommended to me. But, I can honestly tell you that this book changed my life.  Thankfully, I can also say it changed me in ways that expanded beyond my move.

What makes this book so magical?

Sure, Kondo gives tips on organizing, but it is more than that. Her book provides a very easy to understand and clear cut way to decide on anything that stays in your life. And help you determine what you have outgrown, or otherwise need to ditch.

It all starts with one question. This one question can be asked about anything in your life, from spare buttons you keep in a drawer to your career. And, it can be applied to your credit union as well.

The question is a simple one: Does this spark joy?

Whenever you are presented with an item, ask yourself if it sparks joy. Does it make you happy when you see it or touch it or think about the outcome of that decision? If not – why are you wasting your time with it?

Kondo says in her book that countless of her clients have gotten rid of their clutter in all facets of their life (more than just the physical stuff). Because when you surround yourself only with items that you love and that bring you joy, you start to realize all the things around you that aren’t making you happy. And you stop tolerating those things.

According to Kondo, many of her clients have gone on to change jobs, start their own companies, get divorced, move to a new country, or take on other huge life changes after going through her program. They were finally able to see clearly after they tidied up their lives.

So, when you think about your credit union, what items are taking up space and contributing to the clutter? Do you have any products that are outdated? Any features or benefits that your members don’t care about any more? What could you offer that your members would absolutely love? Your employees?

At the end of the day, if your life isn’t full of joy (and items that spark that joy) it is time to make a change. Whether you make the changes in your personal life, or in your credit union…you will be so happy you did.