Clutter seems to creep into our homes no matter how organised we try to stay. Does this sound familiar? Do you sometimes feel like you spend more time looking for things than actually using them? If so, the KonMari Method may be the solution you’ve been searching for. It is developed by Japanese organising consultant Marie Kondo. The unique tidying technique promises to transform your home into a peaceful sanctuary full of only the items that truly spark joy.
What is the KonMari Method?
You might be familiar with several typical decluttering approaches that focus on discarding unwanted items. However, the KonMari Method encourages you to keep only those possessions that bring you happiness. This emphasis on emotional connection sets it apart from other organising styles. According to the theory, surrounding yourself with cherished belongings will help maintain the neatness and functionality of your living space long-term. Moreover, it will also lift your mood.
Get Started the KonMari Way
Commitment is vital when tidying up using the KonMari Method. Have you ever gotten frustrated midway through an organising project? The first step is truly committing yourself to the process from start to finish. Before diving in, visualise your ideal clutter-free home and how it will feel to live there. Are you ready to transform your space?
The KonMari Method emphasises discarding before arranging what remains. So, you’ll focus first on what you want to keep rather than simply relocating piles. You’ll tidy in a specific order, too. Are you wondering how it works? Keep reading to uncover the magic!
Tidy by Category, Not Location
Rather than organising room by room, the KonMari approach has you declutter categories of items. This prevents overlooking duplicates scattered throughout your home and ensures a thorough clean-out. But in which order should you tackle categories? The KonMari method recommends starting with:
- Clothes: The best thing to start with is clothes. Due to one’s attachment to his clothes, it is very easy to understand which carries more positive emotions or joy that need to be kept and which do not. If a feeling of pleasure does not arise with a part of them, it is advised to say thanks and let it go.
- Books: Similar to clothes, books can readily be evaluated based on how they make you feel. You must keep only those books that inspire, spark joy or hold significance.
- Papers: This incorporates important documents, sentimental mementoes, and more. You can sort the papers into “keep”, “discard”, and “address later” piles.
- Komono (Miscellaneous): Some items do not fall into the pre-described categories. Go through all those items individually, trying to feel if they “spark joy.”
- Sentimental items: The last category is the most difficult one. These are items that make you think of pleasant memories or times. Some of the things might be easy to get rid of, but others would be unbearable. Try to determine whether they “spark joy” or just create nostalgia. For the second option again, you have a choice between a picture and a disposal.
How does this approach seem? Clear and intuitive, right? Ready to try it yourself? Keep scrolling for more KonMari secrets!
Folding Magic
Amazing space-saving storage is another KonMari perk. Their unique folding technique allows vertical stacking of clothes and items in drawers and closets. Online tutorials make learning these folds approachable. Take blouses for instance – a few simple folds result in a neat, upright pile revealing everything at a glance! It might be just what you need for an organised closet refresh.
Letting Go with Gratitude
Releasing possessions we no longer truly want can induce stress. However, the KonMari Method encourages thanking each discarded item for its past purpose beforehand. This show of gratitude reportedly makes the process less emotional and more mindful. Could this tip help ease your decluttering experience?
Beyond Decluttering
The KonMari Method is as much a lifestyle philosophy as a neatening technique. It aims to cultivate an environment filled solely with belongings that genuinely bring you joy This allows a sense of calm, purpose and well-being to take hold. Are you convinced that it’s worth a try in your home? Commit to the process and see how refreshed and rejuvenated you feel in a space that reflects only what delights your soul. The KonMari Method could be just what you need for a stress-free home makeover!
