This is post #23 from the 30 Day Personal Finance Challenge: Boost Your Financial Health with a Daily Tip!
The KonMari method kept me busy for a couple of weekends in a row! It was an enjoyable process which left me with a perfectly tidy garderobe, lots of space and a clearer mind.
When your room is clean and uncluttered, you have no choice but to examine your inner state. From the moment you start tidying, you will be compelled to reset your life.
As a result, your life will start to change. – Marie Kondo
Why is this important? For me, the road to financial independence goes through mastering a simple living. What is more simple than taking your possessions in your hand one by one, and asking a simple question:
Does this spark joy?
I threw and gave away many bags full of clothes, books, papers and various other items. Together with them I mentally went trough the events and people I have interacted with in the past couple of years. It’s strange how every item brings its own energy and memories. I had the chance to re-evaluate the past and only keep what brings joy.
Here are the simple principles:
- Tidy all at once.
- Tidy by category, not by location.
- Tackle one category at a time. For example put all your tops (shirts, sweaters, etc.) in one pile on the floor. As you gather all the items of one kind you will realize how many you have!
- Take time to down and examine each item you own, decide whether you want to keep or discard it, and then choose where to put what you keep.
- Follow the right order – start with easy items like underwear and clothes. Continue with shoes, books, and papers. Finish with the most difficult things to get rid of – photos and sentimental items.
The biggest takeaway was Marie Kondo‘s philosophy in regards to the material possessions:
Belongings are acknowledged for their service and thanked before being discarded, if they no longer spark joy. – Marie Kondo
Here are some pics from my decluttering adventures:
Folding some Tshirts following the KonMari method
Tidying is just a tool, not the final destination. The true goal should be to establish the lifestyle you want most once your house has been put in order. – Marie Kondo
Some of these babies went to shoe heaven … sniff … sniff …
For the whole philosophy behind the KonMari method plus tons of simple yet effective advice on how to store, fold, and respect your belongings check out The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
*Disclaimer: I have to warn you – this is addictive! Once you are done with your possessions you will go after your family’s and friends’ stuff.
Note: You can combine this method with the 100 Things Challenge.
