Marie Kondo's Method: Still Worth the Hype?

Marie Kondo's KonMari Method^™ swept the globe with its refreshingly simple approach to decluttering and organizing. Her message that only the things that "spark joy" should stay in our lives resonates with many; so much so that her best-selling book, "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up", is still popular years after its release. But is KonMari's approach still relevant today? Does her philosophy suit everyone, or are some elements less practical in a fast-paced, digital-driven world?

Let's explore what makes the KonMari Method work, where it might fall short, and how people will adapt it to their lives in 2024 and beyond.

What Is the KonMari Method?

The KonMari Method is unique among organization approaches because it urges you to organize by category instead of by room. Marie Kondo encourages you to declutter in a specific order: start with clothes, then move on to books, papers, miscellaneous items, and finally, sentimental items. This clear path, Kondo believes, makes decision-making more accessible and helps people learn what matters to them.

KonMari's iconic question, "Does it spark joy?" is critical. By picking up each item and asking if it brings happiness, you connect emotionally with what you own and can let go of what doesn't add to your life. This mindful approach can make the decluttering process far more personal and lasting than other tidying methods.

The 6 Rules of the KonMari Method

The KonMari Method's effectiveness is tied to its six foundational rules, which Kondo recommends following for meaningful, lasting change:

1. Commit to Tidying Up – A successful KonMari journey requires commitment. If you're only halfway interested, your results will reflect that. Kondo's method asks you to go all in, which may feel like a big step, but it ensures real transformation.

2. Imagine Your Ideal Lifestyle – Defining your dream home environment can make keeping or letting go of each item easier. This focus on envisioning your future inspires people to stay motivated as they sift through belongings.

3. Finish Discarding First – Kondo suggests entirely discarding unwanted items before diving into the organization. She believes this prevents the trap of unnecessary rearranging and gives a fresh perspective on how much storage is needed.

4. Tidy by Category, Not Location – By gathering all items from a category like clothing or books, Kondo argues, you see the true extent of what you own, making it easier to pare down without overlooking duplicate items.

5. Follow the Right Order – Each category gets more emotionally complex, starting with more accessible items like clothing and ending with sentimental items. This sequence builds confidence, helping you make more complicated decisions later.

6. Ask if It Sparks Joy – This final test of whether an item should stay or go is the method's most famous element. Focusing on positive emotions transforms tidying from a chore into a joyful process.

Does KonMari Work for Everyone?

As with any method, the KonMari Method has its challenges. Some find that "sparking joy" doesn't work for every practical item. Essentials like cleaning supplies or tools may not make you happy, but they're necessary. In response, some followers adapt Kondo's philosophy to include practical and joyful items. This flexible take lets people embrace KonMari's spirit without strictly following her guidelines.

Tidying by category can also be difficult for those with limited space or busy schedules. Gathering every book or item of clothing in one spot isn't always feasible, especially in small apartments or shared homes. People in such situations might adapt the method, breaking down categories into smaller sessions to fit their needs.

Why People Still Love the KonMari Method

What makes KonMari enduring is its mindfulness. Teaching people to appreciate their belongings and be grateful for what they discard creates a mindful, positive approach to possessions that resonates deeply. This gratitude-based approach can provide a unique sense of closure, especially when letting go of sentimental items. In addition, the method's focus on aligning one's possessions with an "ideal lifestyle" has inspired countless people to live more intentionally.

Kondo's focus on quick, decisive action is another strong point. Instead of organizing in small steps over time, her method calls for a "tidying festival" that lets people see results quickly. This immediate impact often motivates people and makes a lasting difference in their homes.

Making KonMari Work for You This Year

If you wonder if the KonMari Method will work for you, try starting small. Test her ideas on one category, such as clothes or books, and assess how it feels to let go of what doesn't spark joy. Modify the method to fit your lifestyle — if organizing your items all at once feels daunting, tackle it room by room.

In 2024, with eco-consciousness at the forefront, many are also adapting KonMari by responsibly donating, repurposing, or recycling discarded items. This thoughtful decluttering can minimize waste and aligns well with Kondo's philosophy of treating items with respect and gratitude.

Is the KonMari Method Still Relevant?

The KonMari Method continues to be a powerful tool for creating calm and order. While it may not suit everyone perfectly, it offers timeless principles to help anyone create a more intentional, joyful space. By embracing her approach to decluttering with a touch of flexibility, you can shape a home that truly reflects your values and lifestyle.

References: Marie Kondo and the KonMari Method: The Ultimate Guide | What is the KonMari Method?