According to a website devoted to the concept, “muda” is a Japanese term meaning “waste” (“What Is Muda?”). The idea is usually related to manufacturing and business management, but it can also apply to one’s surroundings. There can be many instances of waste in one’s home. Three examples of this would be wasted money, wasted motion, and wasted time.
Most people have limited financial resources. While no one probably looks for ways to waste cash, there are many unintentional habits that waste money. For instance, adjusting the thermostat while one is away from home, turning off lights when leaving a room, and being aware of what food or other supplies are on hand (and thus not buying something that is already in the house), are all easy ways to save money.
Wasted motion can be eliminated by paying attention to how a home’s space is used and then arranging things most efficiently. For instance, keeping frequently used cooking utensils near the work area, rather than across the room, saves steps. Similarly, if one changes clothes in the bedroom, it makes more sense to place the hamper there, rather than having to walk to another room to collect dirty clothes for laundering.
Finally, time is a precious commodity for everyone. Planning out a route to do household errands as efficiently as possible; spreading chores out through the week rather than facing a cleaning marathon once a month; and setting aside specific times to focus on homework or other responsibilities without interruptions or distractions, all can save time.
“Muda” or waste is an important consideration in the business world. Likewise, eliminating waste in one’s personal surroundings can provide substantial benefits. By becoming more conscious of what he does and how he does it, a person can eliminate the muda from his environment and live a happier, less stressful life, and maybe even save some money in the process!
Work Cited
“What Is Muda?” Eliminate the Muda. N.p., n.d. Web.
http://eliminatethemuda.com/what-is-muda/. 11 June 2014.
