If you’re the type of person who finds it really hard to “let go” of items even if you don’t use them then this decluttering method could change your life.  I say that as a person who has, for many years, held onto every scrap of paper that held meaning or memories for me. Lately though I have found myself in a real mood for clearing out, mainly to free up space but also to create a calmer more organised environment! The reality is we all have too much stuff.

I came across this decluttering method after seeing the words “spark joy” several times in the space of a few days.  After reading further and watching videos on YouTube I learned about the Konmari Method, created by Marie Kondo, a Japanese expert in tidying.

Now there is a whole process for how to declutter your home (by category not room) which Marie Kondo has researched and perfected and even written a book about it “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying” (which I have since purchased!)  But the most exciting part for me was the way you decide whether or not to keep an item: by holding in your hands and asking “Does it spark joy?”

The aim with her method is of course to only keep items in your wardrobe (and your home) that actually make you feel good.  That is of course always our aim when helping clients with their wardrobes but it can be easy to get bogged down with sentiment and practicalities. As simple as this idea is the power of this simple question cannot be underestimated!  It cuts through all the “buts” that can result in us keeping something that will take up space for another year!  After trying it out myself in my own wardrobe,  I couldn’t believe how easily it was to let go.  Of course there will be items that you will get stuck on but Konmari advises that if you are not sure if something sparks joy, that is already a sign that you shouldn’t keep it!

I ended up clearing out several bags to donate and now I can really see what I have and I can actually move my hangers along the rail and have space in between!  That’s a first (I’m not a shopaholic but wardrobe space is pretty tight).  At first, perusing my new streamlined wardrobe was a little scary; thoughts such as “I’ve nothing left” came to mind.  But the reality is they are the pieces I actually wear!  It also means I can now see at a glance what my wardrobe is missing, making it much easier to shop smart.

So the next time you declutter your wardrobe cut through all the “yes buts” and ask yourself the simple question “Does it spark joy?”  You won’t look back.