Reviews
I have to admit it feels pretty cool to have read this book before it became popular (haha…)!
It is a delightful book. Her positivity and cheerfulness had me smiling the entire time I was reading. I was so impressed after reading the book that I was inspired to do big, deep-cleaning session of my home. The philosophy taught is simple: Treat everything as if it has a soul. Keep only what gives you joy and cherish it. The book was filled with useful tips and tricks for organizing and cleaning.
Do the things in your life bring you joy? Based on that deceptively simple question, this book is a guide on how to reorganize, optimize and declutter your home. What was most striking was her advice to give thanks to the things that no longer offer joy before throwing them away. Thank them. It’s unconventional, yes, but telling of her broader philosophy.
A tidy house can change your life. The author channeled her obsession with cleaning into a successful career as an organizing consultant. The ‘KonMari method’ starts with embracing your possessions and respecting your feelings. It requires one to discard anything that doesn’t elicit joy. Many of the lessons require actually doing them, therefore an interactive video series might be an even better guide.
I thought I was good at tidying up until I read this book. It’s taken my organization game to a whole new level. Lots of good tips.
This book is somewhat repetitive, although I think its repetitiveness helps reinforce the points. Be mindful that the book was written in Japanese and translated into English (among many other languages); you will find ‘cute’ translations among adorable Japanese illustrations.
Read this book if you seek tips to tidy up your life. If you still need persuasion as to how tidying can change lives, read ‘The life-changing magic of tidying up’ by the same author.