how to joy-check the konmari way.
When joy-checking your belongings according to Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method, review one category at a time and follow the steps below. Click here for a list of KonMari categories >
Step 1. Gather everything from one category. (If you have a very large volume, you can work on one sub-category at a time, such as tops, bottoms, etc.)
Step 2. Sort items into sub-sub-categories if needed (e.g., tops, bottoms, outerwear, or long-sleeve and short-sleeve)
Step 3. Touch each item and ask yourself if it sparks joy (see tips below)
Step 4. Sort "joy" items to one side and discard items to the other
Step 5. Thank each discard item as you let it go
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tips for joy-checking.
OPTION 1 - Select from the top of the pile, sort into a “joy” pile and a “thank you for your service” pile (for discards)
OPTION 2 – Start with your 3-5 most joy-sparking items and your 3-5 least joy-sparking items, then see where everything else lands
Especially for items that you are unsure about, create a “maybe” pile to reevaluate/return to afterwards.
questions to ask when you get stuck.
When you get stuck, ask yourself the questions below. I've been told by clients that it helps to speak the questions and answers out loud--it can hep you be more honest with yourself.
When did you get it?
How often do you use it?
When is the last time you used it?
If you were being honest with yourself, would you keep it?
Why are you hesitating?
Would you buy this today?
If you accidentally put this into the donation bag and gave it away, how would you feel
If you didn't have it, what would you do/wear instead, and how would that feel?
take it for a test drive.
With clothing, if you are stuck on an item that you love but do not know how or when to wear, then consider:
What occasion or event would you wear this to?
Do you have what you need to complete the outfit?
If not, would you like to search for outfit inspiration? (Pinterest is a great resource because you can search by style such as "chunky turtleneck sweater outfit")
Do you need to give it a test drive? If you haven't worn an item for a very long time, then you may not know how you feel in it. In the coming weeks, is there a specific time/place that you can wear the piece to see how you feel in it? You may find that it is itchy or uncomfortable, or absolutely perfect.
cherish your belongings.
The items that you keep are now part of your joyful home. Keep them with confidence, find more ways to enjoy them, and offer them respect and gratitude at all times.