Building Healthy Habits That Benefit the Whole Family

Want to turn regular pregnancy nesting up 10 notches? Try Marie Kondo.

I was already in full-on nesting mode over here, which meant heaps of cleaning, organizing, and decorating, so it seemed fitting to flip on Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. I watched a few episodes, but I was torn between sitting down to learn and actually accomplishing around the house. From there I decided to use one of my Audible credits to get stuff done while taking in Marie’s audiobook, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.

I’ll admit, I don’t adhere to a great deal of Marie’s advice. For instance, her way of folding is more time consuming than I’d like so I’m sticking to the way I’ve always done it. I also find that for me true joy comes in the form of the items in and around my house, so simplification isn’t always better. That’s why I love listening to Marie’s thoughts on organizing the items you do keep.

As I’ve chugged along, Fox’s ears have perked to the idea of picking up. He loves folding towels and blankets, constantly asking what he can do to help me out. I took this as a good sign he’s ready to take on even more responsibility in the house with his 4th birthday approaching rapidly and a baby brother on the way. 

We kept Marie’s audiobook playing in the background as we folded tiny clothes and Fox put them in their respective drawers.

It felt so much more productive than parking it in front of the TV.

I’ve written in the past about how much more efficient life has gotten for me since I began my love affair with audiobooks, and it’s true: they have greatly improved my performance both professionally and around the home.

I feel fulfilled and relaxed by the time my family gets home from their days at work and school, I accomplish tasks much faster than usual, and I have even more to ruminate about with my husband when we’re unwinding together at the end of the day.

So why choose Audible as your source for audiobooks?

First and foremost, it has the largest selection in the planet. I’ve listened to Michelle Obama’s Becoming while making dinner, Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime while driving to doctor’s appointments, and binged on Kevin Kwan’s Crazy Rich Asians in anticipation of watching the movie in theaters.

You can also download the books over WiFi or mobile data in case you’re heading on an airplane and won’t have service when you plan on listening. My favorite feature is the sleep timer for when I’m easing down for bed and don’t want to miss anything if I conk out earlier than usual.

If you’re interested in signing up with Audible, know that you’ll be able to choose 3 titles every month: 1 audiobook and 2 Audible Originals, have access to exclusive audio fitness programs, and enjoy easy audiobook exchanges, rollover credits, and an audiobook library you keep forever – even if you cancel.

Click here to start your free 30-day trial today.

What’s next on your listening list?