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Finding joy at home
General Interest
The sage advice of Japanese organising consultant Marie Kondo has resonated far and wide.
Based on the principles of simplifying and organising your home by removing things that do not ‘spark joy,’ Kondo has garnered a cult following across the world, encouraging households to embrace a more sustainable way of living.
A great incentive for simplifying your home life is when you are relocating to a smaller space. This requires you to distinguish between ‘need’ and ‘want’ and is the perfect chance to donate, giveaway, or recycle things that are superfluous to requirement in your new abode. Here are some top tips to help you on your way.
Recognise that things may look worse before they look better
Sometimes to go forward you have to go backward. As you embark on your journey of downsizing, be prepared that the first step – decluttering – can feel quite overwhelming. In Marie Kondo’s words – ‘No matter how cluttered it looks, don’t pause, don’t stop, don’t quit.’
Give everything a place
Habit is everything, so train yourself to honour the designated locations for items in your home. Labelling things can help perfect this routine.
Go paperless
While it’s easier said than done, and there is some paperwork that you want in hard copy, ask for your bills to be sent electronically so you can reduce the amount of paper in your house which can take up valuable drawer space.
Stack vertically
When space is at a premium, stacking items vertically helps to maximise real estate and makes it easier to choose items like clothing.
Only keep items that ‘spark joy’
Kondo asks that for everything you decide to keep, you keep it only on the basis it brings joy into your life. This is the ultimate test and will help you heighten ‘your sensitivity to what brings you joy.’
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