The art of decluttering has become a powerful tool for those seeking simplicity and tranquility in their lives. Many are choosing to adopt the methods of famed tidying guru Marie Kondo, following her tips to enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free, minimal home.
An extension of the minimalist mindset of freeing yourself and your mind by living with less, decluttering as an art is more than just tidying up. It's a particular approach to life, one about streamlining and making space in your surroundings to create a harmonious and stress-free environment. With a clearer living space that isn't filled with "stuff", you can attain a clearer and happier mind.
In this article, we'll explore the art of decluttering and how it can help you simplify both your home and your life, as well as provide you with simple tips on how to practice this art, including the KonMari Method you can follow.
The Art of Decluttering: A Guide and Tips
The Benefits of Decluttering
Decluttering your home isn't just about making your space look neater. It also offers a multitude of benefits, such as:
Reduced stress: A clutter-free environment is known to reduce stress and anxiety. When your space is tidy and not overflowing with unwanted items, junk, and things you just don't need, your mind feels clearer and more relaxed.
Increased productivity: A tidy, clear workspace can boost productivity. You can find what you need quickly and get started on tasks right away. It just feels more calm and orderly and helps you to focus better on your work.
Improved health: Less clutter means fewer hiding spots for dust, allergens, and pests, leading to a healthier living environment.
More time: With less time spent searching for things and constantly cleaning up and putting away clutter, you'll have more time (not to mention, space) for activities you enjoy.
The KonMari Method for Decluttering
Marie Kondo's KonMari method and approach to decluttering has gained worldwide recognition for its simplicity and effectiveness. It involves decluttering by category instead of by room and keeping only items that "spark joy" (as well as home necessities, of course.) Here's a brief overview of the method:
1. Clothing: Start with your clothing. Take each item in your hands and ask if it sparks joy. If it doesn't, thank it and let it go.
2. Books: Move on to books, then papers, and so on, and ask the same question for all of them before deciding whether to hold on to them or let go. This method encourages you to focus on one category at a time.
3. Sentimental items: The most challenging category for many to go through when decluttering is sentimental items. It can be harder to decide what is unimportant and doesn't spark joy, as they may all seem significant. For these items, Kondo recommends displaying them or just keeping a small selection to honour their significance in your life.
4. Organise completely: Once you're done decluttering, thoroughly organise and tidy away the items you have kept, and find places to keep and store everything.
5. Declutter everything in one go: Kondo reckons the best way to declutter and tidy is to get it all done in one shot instead of bit by bit; she says, "It can dramatically change your mindset." She goes by the Japanese term ikki ni - 'in one go'.
Decluttering 101: Top Tips
The 90/90 Rule
If you're not sure whether or not to keep an item consider the 90/90 Rule. That is, have you used the item in the last 90 days, and do you expect to use it in the next 90? If not, it may be time to part with it.
Start small If the thought of decluttering your entire home feels overwhelming, start with a small area or a single room. If you're following the KonMari Method and going by category, start with items in that category in just a single room. The sense of accomplishment from tackling one area can motivate you to continue.
Clear out the digital debris
Decluttering for a clear mind and free time doesn't just apply to physical clutter; don't forget to declutter your digital life, too. Delete old files you don't use, unsubscribe from unwanted emails, and organise your documents on your PC and phone.
Donate or recycle items
Consider donating or recycling items you no longer need or want, and sort those to donate and those to recycle into separate boxes and bags. As they say, one man's trash is another man's treasure - plus you're creating sustainability instead of waste.
Learn about and embrace the minimalist approach
To reiterate the ideas behind the KonMari Method, embracing a minimalist mindset is at the heart of decluttering. Minimalism isn't actually about owning as little as possible; it's about valuing what you have and consciously choosing to surround yourself only with items that enhance your life, or again, that spark joy.
Maintain the decluttering mindset
If you choose to take up the minimalist mindset, decluttering is not a one-off event, but rather an ongoing process. Regularly evaluate your possessions to ensure you still actually need them, and you'll prevent more clutter from building up and ruining the tranquility.
The freedom of less:
As you declutter your space, you'll discover the freedom that comes with having less. You'll have more time, less stress, and a clearer sense of what truly matters to you, making you appreciate what you do have - material possessions as well as other parts of your life.
Note: This doesn't mean you have to own barely any possessions, just fewer - see the tip below.
It's all about balance:
Remember that decluttering doesn't mean living an austere life devoid of any personal touches or impractical items that are fun to own. It just means curating your space intentionally to create a home that reflects your values, reduces stress, and brings you joy.
Whether you want to follow the KonMari Method, the 90/90 Rule, or your own unique approach, the ultimate goal is to find balance and serenity within a tidy living environment. Stay consistent, and enjoy the freedom of a simplified home and life.
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