Once the first 4S methods are put in practice the time comes to ask “how is this working?”
One translation of shitsuke is “adherence” or “doing what has been decided.” This is the time to review and tweak the methods.
Here’s an example. I have a note on my home inbox that says “Sort by: File, Process, Shred.” This sounds simple enough, make three stacks based on the three categories. My problem was that I would keep finding things that didn’t really fit in these three categories and then I would get stuck, not follow through. The inbox would pile up. “Keep” or “Not keep” is a simpler process.
Seems to me that the shitsuke would best be done as part of a periodic review, perhaps weekly to start and then monthly or so afterwards.
So far how is it working? Good enough. I am able to find certain things faster. I’ve opened up the “Chi” of my office space somewhat.
Now it simply remains to be seen if I can continue the small, incremental improvements.
