Ease Into KonMari With This Unintimidating Beginner's Guide

Updated on 3/9/2017 at 11:55 PM

By now, the KonMari method is probably nothing new to you. In fact, these days it is basically synonymous with words like declutter and organize, and those who have taken the leap cannot stop raving about its astonishing benefits. Many KonMari enthusiasts even cite that both their happiness and quality of life have exponentially increased after applying the specific techniques inside their homes. And if you have done any investigating yourself, you probably have already figured out that while it sounds very enticing, it is a method that requires a ton of self-discipline and commitment.

If you are curious to give it a go, but aren't fully ready for a complete lifestyle change yet, read on for some tips on how to introduce a lighter version of the KonMari method into your own home.

You don't have to tackle everything all at once.

The KonMari method advises that you tackle all of your clutter head-on and all at once. And while this sounds like a great way to jump right in, after you dump every piece of clothing you own onto the ground, you may start to find yourself experiencing a mild panic attack. Going through each and every item could take hours, so don't set yourself up for failure!

Instead, take an hour here or there to go through just your dresser or just the storage bins underneath your bed on a free Sunday afternoon. Save the rest for another time.

Hang on to some items even if they do not spark joy.

KonMari suggests that you physically touch each item and then ask yourself if that item evokes happiness. According to the method, if the immediate answer isn't "yes!" then you should toss it. However, this can become quite radical if you find that a lot of your items aren't fully sparking joy.

If your kitchen canisters are hanging by a thread, or if your silverware is old and mismatched from your college days, it may not exactly make you happy, but you can't just toss it without thinking twice, either. It is okay to keep certain items that you may not love until you are able to replace them later down the line. Keeping a wish list is a good way to keep track of your planned future purges.

Only fold what you can.

KonMari teaches us that we should store all of our clothing by folding each item (even hanging items) in the fashion of origami. The terms are pretty specific, and this storage adjustment can be a big change for many. If you aren't ready to go all the way in, instead just focus on folding what you can depending on your available space. As long as your items are organized and easily accessible, you will notice a major positive change either way.

Mentally thank items instead of saying it out loud.

If you are having trouble getting rid of a particular item, KonMari suggests taking the time to vocally thank the item for the purpose it served in your life. According to her method, this outward recognition will encourage you to part ways with the item.

If this seems a little too extreme for you, or too time-consuming, that's okay. A great alternative to this belief is to simply acknowledge the item as a thought, and then move on. You will still achieve a similar effect by taking a moment to be mentally grateful for your purged belongings.

Categorize your items loosely.

KonMari suggests decluttering should be broken out by category instead of by room. For example, instead of going through your linens for just your bedroom, she advises gathering all of the linens from your children's bedrooms, your bathroom, and the guest bedroom, and whittling down from one big pile.

This can be beneficial, but it can also lead you down a path that you may not be fully committed to yet. Instead of rounding up every last piece of linen you own, it is okay to loosely categorize your belongings so you don't get overwhelmed. Focusing on just the guest linens won't be as big of a project to take on, and it will be an easier feat to achieve.

Home Organization