When was the last time you were truly relaxed at home? Home is meant to be a haven, a place to feel at ease and unwind, but too often our sanctuaries are filled with the excesses of our modern lives and the clutter we surround ourselves with does impact our mental state.
The dictionary definition of ‘clutter’ is “a large number of objects in a state of being untidy”. This suggests that the solution to clutter is keeping your ‘large number of objects’ well organised and hidden from view.
But several tidying experts (yes, that’s a real job title) disagree. They argue that the key to keeping your home uncluttered for good is to minimise the number of objects you keep. It’s not quite classic minimalism – pure functionality devoid of ornamentation. Rather, it’s something a little more emotionally complex.
The KonMari method
This global phenomenon KonMari has changed the way millions of people think about their possessions. About the sheer amount of stuff they have. The Method was developed by Marie Kondo, a Japanese ‘organising consultant’. Her bestselling title ‘The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up’ sold more than 10 million copies and made Kondo a household name.
The core principle of the KonMari Method is that one must only keep items that ‘spark joy’. This means taking time to go through all your belongings, and (somewhat ruthlessly) keep only the things that make you feel a little thrill of happiness.
Critics say it’s more about finding a method that works for you. Or at the very least, addressing the psychological roots of why you become emotionally attached to inanimate objects. But one thing is undeniable – KonMari got the world re-focused on the benefits of a decluttered life.
Practical, mental and financial benefits
Speaking of psychology, the good news for those planning on tackling a cluttered home is that there are scientifically proven benefits. Some studies have suggested a strong link between tidier living areas and ‘better’ life choices, such as selecting healthier snacks or donating more money to charity. Others have found that physical clutter causes sensory overload, as all the items compete for your attention – thus suggesting that a decluttered space improves your ability to focus, process information, and relax.
Breaking down your emotional attachment to items can also have financial benefits. The most obvious is the future savings. With a renewed aesthetic and attitude to accumulating new things, you may find you spend less on items you don’t use. Long term, you may have an easier time with lifestyle changes that make sense for your broader goals, such as downsizing.
Feeling excited but intimidated about tidying up? Don’t be. Here are a few of the basics to get you started.
Start small
Don’t feel that you’ve got to tackle the whole house in one go, clean out a drawer or your wallet and then work your way up to the larger spaces in your home like your closet of living room.
Decluttering is not organising
Don’t try to organise while you declutter. Focus on getting rid of stuff. This can be a little overwhelming so push through the challenges and take it one step at a time. Use the following checklist to help you with the decision making process.
Keep or Discard?
If you can’t tick three or more of the following points – it’s time to say goodbye.
Take all the time you need and if you get stuck just move on to something else. You’ll get there!
The key is to start now. Because you deserve a decluttered home. A space that sparks joy.