13 KonMari Myths You Need to Stop Believing
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Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method has swept the world when it comes to organizing. So many people have embraced it because it’s focused on simplifying and surrounding ourselves with things that spark joy. However, like any new trendy thing, myths and misconceptions have a tendency to crop up along the way. If you have ever been confused or frustrated by the KonMari Method, if you’ve wondered whether it’s really for you, you might be caught up in one of these common myths.
The thing is, KonMari isn’t a one size fits all solution. You don’t have to throw out everything you own or fold your socks a certain way forever. In fact, the method is quite flexible and forgiving than most people think it is. The time is ripe to clear the air a bit on a few popular myths about KonMari and get a bit closer to the truth about what KonMari really is.
You Have to Organize Everything All the Time
After you ‘KonMari’ your home, people think it will all stay organised forever. This is not about being perfect, life is messy. Kondo acknowledges that you bring in new things in daily life, routines change, and things need adjusting. But the method isn’t a stiff rulebook, it’s a framework. KonMari doesn’t imply that your house is going to be perfectly organized all the time, but it is a spot to begin maintaining order.
It’s Only for People With a Lot of Stuff
One of the most common misconceptions about this in this regard is that the KonMari Method is only for people who have a mess in their home or a lot of collections. That method is still useful for those who think they are already organized. If you want to clear your mind, even in a clean home, KonMari suggests only keeping that which you love. The relationship you have with what you own, not how much you own.
You Can Only Keep Essentials
Some people think the KonMari Method is all about keeping essential items. So if a picture frame, an old concert ticket, or that weird mug you love can make you happy, then it should stay even if it doesn’t have any practical purpose. The method doesn’t say what to keep, it says what not to keep – it’s based on what brings you joy.
You Have to Be Ruthless
Ruthlessness with your possessions is not the idea behind KonMari. On first glance, the method is kinder than it appears. But it’s a gentle purge, not a harsh one, Kondo makes gratitude for each item a part of the process before letting it go. It’s not about being cutthroat, it’s about wise choices, not mindless disposal.
KonMari Is Only for Physical Stuff
Some even think that KonMari is only about cleaning up physical items, but it can also be about digital clutter. According to Kondo, she has used her method to organize files, emails and even calendar events. We can just as easily drown in digital clutter as physical mess, but the same principles apply—keep the sparklers, delete what doesn’t. KonMari can help you bring clarity and peace to your home or your inbox.
You Have to Throw Everything Away
One of the biggest myths about the KonMari Method is that you need to throw away everything you own and become a minimalist monk. Marie Kondo doesn’t push for extreme minimalism. She believes you should keep things that bring you joy, which is a very personal standard. That might be a small collection for some, or an extensive library, wardrobe or memorabilia collection for others. Minimalism isn’t done because it’s minimalism, it’s about surrounding yourself with things you love.
You Can Only Do It Once
The experience of KonMariing your home leads people to believe you’re never going to have to do it again. Kondo’s own life has changed, and she’s changed her approach as well, particularly after having children. Our needs, and spaces are dynamic, as is life. The initial overhaul can be a big project, but the method is flexible enough to revisit as needs change. It’s not a one time deal, it’s a tool you can use as often as you need.
It’s All About Folding
Another myth that has become life of its own is that KonMari is all about folding your clothes in a certain way. Kondo does recommend a specific way of folding that will make items more visible and accessible, but it’s just a part of her method. You don’t have to fold, and the KonMari Method is not just for clothes. It’s not about perfect folding, it’s about rethinking your space and creating a more mindful relationship with your things.
Only Women Follow the KonMari Method
There’s this idea that KonMari is something only women are into. The method is not gender specific, maybe it’s because Marie Kondo herself is a woman. The KonMari Method doesn’t discriminate, men, women and everyone in between. That philosophy of finding joy in our possessions resonates with all backgrounds, and many men have had positive experiences with the approach as well.
It’s Too Sentimental
One myth about KonMari is that it’s too sentimental, only for the sake of holding on to things for emotional reasons. However, although Kondo does encourage paying attention to what brings joy, it’s not the same as sentimentality. It’s about getting rid of the items that don’t fit your values and are not part of your life, not keeping the things just because they were around when you were a kid. If that old sweatshirt no longer brings happiness, that’s okay, even if it once did.
It’s Not About Mindset, It’s About Tidying
The big misconception is that KonMari is only about tidying, but it’s far deeper than that. Kondo stresses the importance of mindset, which is basically reflecting on why you like some items, and letting go of the ones that you don’t. It is a process that often increases self awareness and increases the emotional well being as you become more attuned to what matters most to you.
KonMari Only Benefits Neat Freaks
A common myth about the KonMari Method is that it is for “neat freaks” who can’t stand clutter. The fact is, the approach can benefit anyone. It’s about creating a feeling of calm and purpose in your space, not being obsessed with every little detail. In fact, it’s usually the least tidy people who get the most from the method!
It’s Just a Trend
Some people write off KonMari as yet another fleeting fad. However, the method is based on principles that are supported by time tested concepts of mindfulness and intentional living. Kondo isn’t the first person to propose decluttering, organizing and living with intention, but she’s packaged them in a way that people can relate to. Her angle gives us something much more than a passing fad: universal desire for peace and order in our homes.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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