The inside of a house or apartment after decluttering has much in common with a Shinto shrine... a place where there are no unnecessary things, and our thoughts become clear.

The best way to find out what we really need is to get rid of what we don't. Quests to faraway places or shopping sprees are no longer necessary. All you have to do is eliminate what you don't need by confronting each of your possessions properly.

Once you learn to choose your belongings properly, you will be left with only the amount that fits perfectly in the space you own.

For kids, it's best to teach them how to fold their clothes first. Kids will be able to fold their clothes at about three years old. You don't want to teach them how to put away toys first because it's difficult. Clothes are something kids wear every day, so it's easy for them to have a sense about their belongings.

I do not equate productivity to happiness. For most people, happiness in life is a massive amount of achievement plus a massive amount of appreciation. And you need both of those things.

I've learned a lot over the years, but I am an honest person, and when I'm not happy, I can't fake a smile. If there is a problem, you will know straight away because you will see it on my face.

If you carry joy in your heart, you can heal any moment.

These days cry out, as never before, for us to pay attention, so we can move through them and get our joy and pride back.