Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Sieketsu and Shitsuku, the 5S kaizen principles provide a system, a way of doing things that eliminates waste and improves performance, productivity and satisfaction. What a fabulous gift!
Paying attention to the process and being in the NOW to acknowledge what is working, builds on your strengths, develops confidence and is at the heart of Kaizen Leadership Institute’s training and coaching programs.
5S kaizen principles have been made famous by manufacturing and production industries worldwide. Here’s a brief overview of what they are and how you can put them to work in your life.
SEIRI – Sort, Clear Out
Can’t find what you’re looking for – drowning in stuff? Commit yourself to Seiri and de-clutter. Let go of all you no longer need, want or love. Make room, create space. Turn your unwanted valuables into cash by selling them online or at a yard sale. Less valuable stuff may still have value to others so why not donate what you can’t sell to a local charity and keep it out of the landfill for a while longer.
You can also think of Seiri, as clearing out and de-cluttering your mind. Emptying your mind, centering and meditation are a great daily practice that cultivates inner calm and renewal. Once you’ve de-cluttered your space and your mind, you’ll be able to see, move and breathe more easily.
SEITON – Set Things in Order
Get organized. Put your space and life in order. A place for everything and everything in its place. You’ll know everything you own, its purpose and its location. Imagine – no time lost in searching for things! Seiton can be done in stages. Your organization will be shaped by what you want to do so don’t organize everything til you’re clear on your direction and plan of action. Put the basics in place first.
SEISO – Clean and Shine
Seiso builds spirit, pride and connection to your space and yourself. Consider your look and feel – your style. How’s it working for you – are you getting the results you want? Practicing Seiso helps increase your self awareness and awareness of your impact on others. Play with your style until you get the results you want.
SIEKETSU – Standardize
The Sieketsu step sets standards for cleanliness or tidiness both on the environmental and personal fronts. Standardizing expectations makes them automatic and empowers all involved to monitor and make gentle adjustments, to maintain performance benchmarks.You can adjust the process based on the results you receive.
SHITSUKU – Self Discipline
Shitsuku, once achieved, results in behaviour change and achievement motivation. Self discipline and holding yourself personally accountable to practicing the 5Ss kaizen principles is what Shitsuku is all about.
Take some time and allow yourself to think about all you’ve achieved. Give it time to sink in. NOW, think about what’s next. If you’re at a loss, you will benefit from a private consultation to help you get clear on your next, best step.
About Julia von Flotow
