When it comes to decluttering, there are two types of people: those who thrive on tidying and those who keep every takeout menu because “you never know.”
If you’re in the latter group, fear not. With a little inspiration from the queen of tidying herself, Marie Kondo, you too can transform your cluttered chaos into a sanctuary of serenity.
Here are five secrets to decluttering like a boss that even Marie Kondo would give a joyful nod of approval.
1. Spark Joy or Spark a Yard Sale
Marie Kondo’s golden rule is simple: If it doesn’t spark joy, it’s gotta go.
Before you roll your eyes, think about the socks with holes that you’ve been meaning to throw away for years. Do they really bring you happiness? No? Great, toss them.
If you’re unsure, imagine holding a yard sale where all the joyless items in your home go to new, unsuspecting owners. It’s like giving your clutter a second chance at love.
Pro Tip: Be ruthless but fair. Grandma’s ugly vase might not spark joy, but it could spark some serious guilt. Consider taking a photo to remember it before letting it go.
2. The One-Category Rule: Divide and Conquer
Kondo’s method advises decluttering by category, not location. Instead of tackling your bedroom (and getting distracted by your old diaries), focus on a single category like clothes or books.
Gather every item in that category from all over the house, and pile it up in one spot.
Seeing 73 t-shirts in a heap might just be the wake-up call you need to part with a few. Spoiler alert: You don’t need 15 shirts with motivational quotes.
Pro Tip: When sorting books, don’t get trapped reading the first chapter of every novel you forgot you owned. That’s how “decluttering” turns into “rediscovering distractions.”
3. Folding Is an Art Form
Marie Kondo’s folding technique is the stuff of legend. Shirts, socks, and towels become little self-standing masterpieces when folded properly.
It’s not just about saving space; it’s about showing respect to your belongings. Because nothing says “I have my life together” like a drawer of perfectly aligned t-shirts.
Pro Tip: Host a folding party with friends. Sure, they’ll make fun of you at first, but they’ll leave with neatly folded socks and a newfound appreciation for tidiness. Plus, wine makes folding funnier.
4. Respect Your Sentimental Items… and Then Let Them Go
Sentimental items are the kryptonite of decluttering. That concert ticket from 2005? You’ll never forget the show, even without the stub.
Marie Kondo suggests cherishing the memory, thanking the item, and then setting it free. It’s like a breakup, but with less crying and more cardboard boxes.
Pro Tip: If you’re struggling to part with sentimental clutter, ask yourself, “Would Future Me be annoyed if I kept this?” Spoiler: Future You don’t want to trip over old ski boots in the garage.
5. Storage Should Be Simple, Not a Tetris Game
Marie Kondo believes storage isn’t about hiding clutter; it’s about creating easy access to the things you truly need and love.
Avoid the temptation to shove everything into a closet and slam the door. Trust me, no one wins when a precarious tower of boxes comes crashing down.
Pro Tip: Invest in clear storage bins so you can see what’s inside without playing peek-a-boo with your clutter. Bonus points if you label them like a true organizational wizard.
6. The Final Boss Move: Commit to a Joyful Life
Decluttering isn’t just about creating space in your home; it’s about creating space in your mind. Marie Kondo’s approach isn’t about perfection—it’s about intentional living.
When your home is filled only with things that spark joy, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a secret level in the game of life.
So, are you ready to declutter like a boss? Channel your inner Marie Kondo, grab some trash bags, and get to work.
Who knows, you might just spark some joy—and maybe even find that long-lost remote in the process!