The things we decide to keep help form the fabric of our lives. I think it is actually easier to organize your home if you focus on choosing the items you want to hold onto. These choices are a way to magnifying your favorite things. Some of the best stuff we have held onto in our house includes: cherished books, my childhood baby doll, my doll cradle (built for me by my grandpa), Legos, treasured stuffed animals, special and useful furniture, artwork from our travels, awesome rocks, jewelry, and photos.
To me, the home organizing process is not downsizing it is “rightsizing”. Think about it this way: Your home is already full of all your stuff, which means you DO have the space for everything. You can literally keep everything in your home if you want to. It is up to you to decide the “rightsize” for your stuff. Ideally, the “rightsize” should feel pleasant, work efficiently, and be beautiful to you.
Some questions to ask yourself when deciding what stuff to hold on to:
Does it spark joy??? Marie Kondo says sparking joy is a feeling your favorite items bring you. From what I understand, this joy increases your energy and makes you want to hug something (LOL).
Is it useful??? My cleaning products are a good example here… They don’t spark joy for me, but they are definitely useful, so I’m keeping them.
Is it useful enough??? The debate on usefulness gets tricky with responses like, “every once in a while” or “It potential could be”... In these cases, I encourage you to ask-
Can you easily buy it again if needed?
Is it expensive and therefore difficult to replace?
Does a friend want to keep it and lend it to you occasionally?
Is there something else you can use instead?
Does it take up a lot of space or is it difficult to store?
Can you easily access it when needed?
Would keeping the item a little longer (in a “Maybe” bin) help the decision process?
Does it have significant sentimental value??? I think displaying sentimental items makes a home personal. I also recommend rotating some special items seasonally with stored decorations.
Are you okay with maintaining the item??? Most things require care and attention once in a while. Try cleaning the item and see how it makes you feel. Do you appreciate the item enough to warrant the care it requires? If you dislike maintaining something, it may be time to let it go.
Can the item serve another purpose or find a new spot? Sometimes simply moving something can increase your appreciation for it. I recommend sorting by category and frequency of use.
Obviously, material possessions are nowhere near the meaning of life, but they certainly do create our environment. “Rightsizing” means holding onto your favorite things, so you feel comfortable and happy in your space. I think it is crucial to respect what items people want to keep. If the space is there, embrace it! The important part is to consciously decide what you want in your home, instead of allowing your stuff to take over. I believe in choosing quality over quantity. I also know that appreciation for our things grows when we take proper care of them. Choosing to hold onto the good stuff will highlight its value and make your home happier.
Love Always,
Meg
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