Marie Kondo, the organizing consultant, the magician of tidying up, has been an inspiration to me. She helps people see what is really important in their lives and shows them how to tidy up in order to enjoy those things. She is an inspiration because her way is inviting and I find that once I organize, I am clearer who I am and can focus on the important things.
She finds that the effects of organizing are more psychological than practical. People reported lifted mood, and even sleeping better. Her method is to go through things one by one and see if they “spark joy.” She starts with clothing, then books, then papers, then the rooms: kitchen, bathroom, garage, and finally sentimental items.
I like that she starts with clothing in the wardrobe. To me, what we wear should spark joy in us. That joy comes from the fact that the clothing expresses something personal of who we are. In addition, I believe it must be flattering, or why wear it? By wearing quality clothes that look good on us, we boost confidence and feel more satisfied in life.
Besides a full-length mirror, it may take a second eye, a kind friend with an aesthetic eye, to determine what looks good on you and if it expresses who you are. The challenge this week is to take on your wardrobe and clear out what does not fit, flatter or thrill you. Enlist the help of a friend for support and a discriminating eye.
Marie’s strategy is to take everything out of the closet and drawers and pile it up someplace you can access it, such as on the bed or on a table. Take absolutely everything out. This also helps to organize the space for when you put things back. There needs to be a place for everything and room to be able to see everything. You might need containers to organize things on shelves, or what you have might be enough. Get organized when you put clothes back.
I have one side of my closet for the current season, and the other side for clothes I am not wearing because it is the wrong season. I have been doing this re-assessment of my clothes as seasons change and I switch over my wardrobe. One of my hobbies is clothes, and my ideal policy is that for each new thing coming in, one thing must go. I still clear out because who I am changes and I want my clothing to reflect that.
I find that my taste in clothes changes faster than clothes wear out. When you put on each piece of clothing from your closet, see if it expresses the current you. Does it “spark joy” in who you are right now, or is it just a memory of what you used to be? Besides looking good on you, does it really express your personality, the “you” that you aspire to be?
Clothes can hold our self-image, so choose wisely. Wearing clothes that are too baggy or worn will dampen your expression. Sure, clothes need to be comfortable and you need clothes appropriate for each of your activities. Make sure you have what you need to feel comfortable and confident in all situations of your life. Get rid of the rest. I find that it makes the clothes that I have precious and something I look forward to putting on.
This week, find what is lurking in your wardrobe and clear it out! Leave only what sparks joy.
