_The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering_ by Marie Kondo
Since I am in the middle of moving it seemed like a prudent book to read. Although I did not quite finish it in time to take complete action with my belongings before they needed to be packed up, I have taken some notes to consider when it comes time to move in.
Kondo’s approach is rather interesting, combining new-age thinking with practical solutions to keeping a home tidy and neat. She points out that it is not just about being organized or putting things in the right place, but it is also about making sure what you have in your home is actually bringing you joy and positivity in the space in which you reside.
Although I do tend to go through my clothes quite regularly, her suggestion to pile up every article of clothing in one place, touch each piece and decide if it sparks joy or not to determine if it should be kept or not is a new concept. I do love my clothes and I did have time to go through almost every article I have before packing up. Despite getting rid of about three bags earlier this year, I also got rid of another large garbage bag full of items, plus a load of shoes that I was holding on to!
When we move in and unpack things, I will apply her principle of throwing away papers and only keeping papers that fall into one of three categories. This will be a challenge as a recovering academic, I like to hold on to articles or magazines – just in case. However, I can see her point in that we just no longer need papers in our lives. If I really want to hold on to something I can either scan it or make note of where to find it electronically later (though she is right in that it is highly unlikely I will ever want to see it again…).
I gleaned a lot of good ideas and am looking forward to our new home where I can apply her approach so that we have a tidy and joyful home filled with a focus on love, laughs and living fully rather than being weighed down (consciously or not) by unnecessary clutter.
Thanks, Kondo-san!!!
~T π
