Since the dawn of social media, home organization has had somewhat of a renaissance. The highly Instagrammable nature of home edits and storage upgrades has lead to a variety of organizational fads that are aesthetically pleasing, but don't necessarily have staying power. Marie Kondo's organizational methods are the opposite of this 'fast organizing' craze.
The famed Japanese organizing consultant focuses on organizing for sustainable change, and long-lasting home decluttering. In our exclusive interview with Kondo about her upcoming appearance at the Clean and Tidy Home Show, I was keen to ask about her recommendations for timeless organizing techniques that will never go out of style. Her simple advice didn't disappoint.
Kondo says that the one originizing golden rule that will be just as relevant in 100 years is, 'to keep what sparks joy.' She tells Homes & Gardens: 'Choosing only what you love is an essential step in the process of tidying up.'
However, this decluttering golden rule isn't about just throwing things away willy-nilly. Intentionality is a huge part of the method. Kondo states: 'When you let go of things, be grateful. When there is love and gratitude between you and your belongings, you will naturally be motivated to tidy up and keep your house in order.'
Mindfulness is a huge part of this slow decluttering process. Kondo continues, 'Being grateful for things that have served their purpose is the first step toward remembering the love you have for everything you own.' When you organize this way, it becomes about more than objects or trends; it's an overhaul of your lifestyle.
After you have freed yourself from clutter using Kondo's decluttering tips, it's time to carefully place the remaining items in their designated spot. Kondo advises: 'Finally, designate a place for each object you own. Once every item has a designated place, all you have to do is simply put things back after use, which makes daily tidying much easier.' This will contribute to long-term success in your home organization.
Good organization shouldn't be complicated. Kondo herself says: 'I believe that the rules of tidying should always be simple.' Rather than investing in thousands of plastic organizers that will end up in landfills in a few years, focus on creating sustainable solutions that can stand the test of time.
For more of Kondo's timeless advice, turn to her book Spark Joy. The tiny tome is full of all the organizing advice you didn't even know you needed
To recreate Kondo's simple tips, start with a small section of your home, such as decluttering a closet. Begin by removing everything from the closet so that you can see everything that has built up in the space. Chances are, there will be several items you didn't even remember you have. By laying everything out, it's easier to determine what sparks joy and what doesn't, rather than abstractly imagining your items to determine what you might want to keep, rather than abstractly imagining your items to decide what you love and what's better to drop.
No matter your decluttering question, Marie Kondo has the answer you are looking for. Kondo will speak at the Clean and Tidy Home Show on October 19 in London, UK. We can find out more via their website.
