New Year, New You

Transform Your Space and Mindset. With the new year, many of us reflect on our past achievements and set our sights on future goals. If you've found it challenging to maintain the progress from previous decluttering efforts, it might be time for a fresh approach. Tidying is often perceived as a straightforward process of deciding what to donate or discard. However, it involves much more — it necessitates a shift in mindset. The onset of a new year is frequently associated with aspirations for change. What aspects of your life do you wish to enhance this year? Where would you like to go next? While some embrace the tradition of New Year's resolutions, others shy away from it. Regardless of when you choose to make changes, there’s no time like the present to create a fulfilling life. If improving your organisation skills features on your list of desired changes, I urge you not to dive into the first cupboard you see, empty its contents, and discard items impulsively. You might wonder why I suggest this, given that it’s a tactic you've probably employed before and one that social media often promotes. The reason is simple: it's time to reconsider why past methods haven't yielded the beautifully organised home you envisioned. Here are some reasons why this approach may have fallen short: 1. You began to tidy without a clear plan. 2. You lost momentum or time before completing the task. 3. The mess created in the tidying process overwhelmed you, leading you to merely shove everything back into the cupboard. 4. You attempted to manage the process alone. 5. You might not have learned effective techniques for tidying up. 6. Your focus was solely on what to discard, rather than what to keep. 7. You addressed the clutter in small increments but soon lost interest or found distractions. 8. You relied on sheer willpower and good intentions. These challenges are all too common; many people grapple with homes overflowing with items they’ve forgotten about or no longer need. But don't be too hard on yourself; you’re not alone in your struggle. Let me introduce you to a different way of approaching tidying — one that has significantly impacted my life and allowed me to help countless others as a professional organiser. This year, let's take a different path. Instead of constant tidying, let’s create a home that supports the life you aspire to and frees up your time for what truly matters. As a certified KonMari consultant, I have transformed not only my own living space but also the lives of those I assist. In the past, I was continually tidying, embarking on tidying campaigns at least twice a year. While I derived enjoyment from the process of organising, I was disheartened that the order never lasted, leaving me in a continuous struggle. I tried nearly every tidying philosophy, from decluttering a few items each day to limiting how long I tidy up for. Despite my efforts and excitement around the latest storage solutions, nothing seemed to stick — until I discovered Marie Kondo's "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying." Reading this book wasn't just about tidying; it was about shifting my entire perspective. I completed my own tidying festival in 2016, paving the way for a harmonious living environment that supports me in living my best life. The process not only relieved me of biannual tidying frenzies but also led me to a fulfilling career in professional home organisation. The KonMari method focuses on selecting items that "spark joy," fundamentally changing how I engage with my belongings and my home. This approach is built on six guiding principles: 1. Commit to tidying up. 2. Envision your ideal life. 3. Finish discarding first. 4. Tidy by category, not location. 5. Follow the correct order of categories. 6. Ask yourself whether an item sparks joy. What resonates with me about this method is its positive and uplifting ethos. It encourages you to choose what you wish to keep, rather than fixating on what to discard. By focusing on those cherished items, the rest will naturally fall into place. If you find yourself reading this, it’s likely that you’re eager to tidy up. Thus, committing yourself to this process should be straightforward. The second principle, envisioning your ideal life, is one that many people tend to overlook, eager to dive into the tasks at hand. However, this step is crucial; it can be the linchpin that determines whether you successfully complete your tidying journey or abandon it midway. Take your time during this phase. Explore the motivations behind your desire to tidy up, and craft a vivid picture of the home and life you aspire to achieve. Instead of stopping at "I want a tidy home," delve deeper to uncover your true reasons and aspirations. Be as imaginative as you wish and don’t let constraints or fears hold you back; dream big! Once you have a clear vision, capture it visually or in writing. This will serve as a powerful anchor when the journey feels daunting. Tidying by category and in the correct order are essential elements of the KonMari method. Unlike traditional methods that promote scattered tidying, focusing on categories helps you see the totality of what you own, making it easier to identify duplicates and unwanted items. The correct order — clothing, books, paper, komono (miscellaneous items), and sentimental items — allows you to refine your skills along the way, fostering your ability to recognise joy in your belongings. Moreover, this method prioritises a positive mindset, concentrating on what to keep rather than what to discard. By embracing an optimistic outlook, you will lift the burden of being overwhelmed and finding yourself surrounded by items that truly resonate with you. In turn, this supportive environment will empower you to step into the ideal life you envisioned at the outset of your journey. Once you have worked through all your belongings in order, it's time to give every item a designated place in your home. This will allow you to maintain your newly organised home once and for all.  Finally, before starting your tidying journey I recommend enlisting an accountability buddy. This can significantly enhance your tidying experience. Whether it’s a supportive friend, family member, or a professional, having someone in your corner to encourage you can make all the difference. They can help you celebrate victories big and small, providing guidance when the going gets tough.

As you embark on your tidying journey this year, remember that it’s not just about creating a tidy space but about nurturing a lifestyle that brings you joy and fulfilment. Here’s to a new year filled with newfound clarity, purpose and Joy!