I Tried the Kon-Mari Method

If you've not heard about Marie Kondo - get back under your rock.

The "Kon-Mari" method has revolutionised the ways in which we organise our homes, in more ways than one. The critically acclaimed Lifestyle Expert teaches us how to "spark joy” in all sorts of household items. By decluttering our cabinets and drawers, proves to encourage a profound effect on our wellbeing, too.

I discovered the Kon-Mari method via social media; before I knew it I’d spent three hours watching YouTube tutorials on how to fold my socks. I know what you are thinking, what a wild way to spend a Friday night! Well, it’s actually quite therapeutic.

I started on my wardrobe; having recently downsized, I was forced to reduce the amount of clothes I had. Each item went through a process of elimination. This was as painstaking as this sounds and I became somewhat overwhelmed with the prospect of throwing out items I love but never really get round to wearing, but want to keep, just in case. 

Surely, there is a loop hole in this method, to utilise the little space I have so that I don't need to chuck everything out? But still keep it looking pristine? Well, yes, there is actually. Mari-Kondo has nailed the folding techniques. These techniques save you so much space! You need to have patience but once you've mastered it, it becomes a simple hack, one that has continually motivated me to maintain it. 
My wardrobe has been colour coordinated ever since, and my sock drawer has never looked so satisfying. Apart from the aesthetically pleasing aspects, it has saved me time every morning when I’m trying to get ready for work. Gone are the days I’m searching for the odd sock.

Onto the Kitchen: The rules I had somewhat tweaked for my clothes, only really applies to clothes: everything else is treated with the harsh brutality of "you only need one of everything". Turns out I had five peelers. Who needs five peelers?  Once I'd combated my kitchen utensils, I felt a great sense of pride. I felt I had my shit together. I like that daily reminder every time I see it.

I've often said when you open a drawer and it’s a state, it’s a reflection of your state of mind. The messier the drawer, the more scatty you are in life. The tidier the drawer the more calm and in control you are in life. Does it surprise you Einstein produced some of his best work from a messy desk? But then what does that say about someone who has an empty desk?

Having grown up in a home of artists, minimalism was never a thing we put into practice. Don't get me wrong, I like having a home well lived in and with character, but I also appreciate everything having its own place. The Mari-Kondo effect is an interesting mix of Japanese minimalistic culture, with an underlying tone of learning the art of self-care, and self-discipline. 

I encourage everyone to give it a try, albeit one drawer at a time.