If you subscribe to the Minimalist Beauty Newsletter, you will know that I listened to and loved the audio book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
One concept mentioned in this book is about understanding when possessions that we own have served their purpose in our lives. Not only is it easy to hold onto things just in case we need them, but there is also a guilt around letting things go based on how much we have spent on the item, or if it was a gift. When you base keeping possessions only because you absolutely love them, and as Marie Kondo expresses because they “spark joy”, none of the excuses above are valid anymore.
With a new perspective around why you choose to keep something, it is now easier to release everything creating clutter and energetic heaviness in your home.
“Just in case” items can be borrowed and easily obtained if truly needed. Most of the time that “just in case” item is never needed. If the item you purchased regardless of price brought you incredible joy initially, then that joy was its purpose. If the gift given to you was graciously received, that gift’s purpose was in allowing the giver the incredible bliss of giving as well as you expressing gratitude for the gift.
When you recognize the purpose of every item in your home, it is so much easier to distinguish what to keep and what to release. Loving everything that you own is definitely one of the most rewarding gifts that you could ever give to yourself and your life. If everything that we own holds energy, think about how amazing life would feel if there was only loving energy around us.
Once it has served its purpose, let it go!
(Image by Dawn Michelle)
Darcia says
I started KonMari technique mid February it has been a joyous process. I am on the paper category. That category will take me 6 weeks along with some other subcategories to keep me sane. I love it is about joy and not necessarily about minimal. It has made me a better steward of my finances and has diminished impulsive and comfort buying. I am in love and in joy!
Sandy says
This is the second time within the last couple of weeks I’ve heard about Kondo’s book. So, something is speaking to me and prompting me to get it. I will.( By the way, if you decide to have an affiliate link to her book as well as other products, I’d be glad to buy it through your Amazon link. Please let me know)
Also, I’ve been listening to Danielle Laporte tapes(they are on YT) She created a program called the Desire Map.
Laporte suggests the answer to the question “how do I want to feel” is your best measure in creating your life.
Dawn, thank you for posting this message. Once again, the universe serendipitously talks to me through your posts.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Sandy,
I heard about her book a few times before I checked it out as well. Also thank you for your kind words. I appreciate the support! I’ll have to check out Danielle Laporte’s work too. <3
mm says
I agree that book is life changing. It help me get rid of my clutter as well. When you dwindle down your possessions to what you love,it makes things easier. I listened to the audio book on youtube
Dawn Michelle says
Hi MM,
Thanks so much for sharing this! It really is all about only owning what you love!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Darcia,
It’s awesome that you too have been using her technique to bring more happiness into your home. I love that she doesn’t emphasize a certain amount of things to strive towards, yet in the end when you only have what you love that is the right amount of possessions for you. Thanks for sharing this!
Sherry says
clutter creates stress. I’m glad you found peace in decluttering your space. I try to keep my work and private spaces as clean and tidy as possible. Less clutter, less stress. Measurabledifference.com
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Sherry,
Thanks so much for your comment! Clutter-free definitely creates a more peaceful environment!
Nasha Snipes says
Hi Dawn,
Thank you for mentioning Kondo’s book. I have been downsizing for years and this methodology really speaks to me. I have found that letting go is also brining better balance into my life. I am so grateful I found your site and much gratitude to you for your contribution as you experience life’s journey.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Nasha Snipes,
Maria Kondo’s book is amazing and I’m so glad you found my site and are enjoying it! Creating more space in my life for abundance and more good has been extremely healing for me, so sharing the experience as been a joy. I wish you nothing but the best. <3
Stephanie L says
Hey everyone!
When I found myself ridding my life of excess “stuff” in my home, I was delighted to find that the focus went from outward to inward as well. I found myself “letting go” of experiences and people that I have held on to for years. One way to do so is to share your experiences with others who are struggling with the same thing. Empathy is so powerful and encouraging!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Stephanie L,
I love the mental, emotional, and physical space letting go gives me. I’m so glad that you are having your own experience with this. Sharing the experience is so healing too. Have a beautiful week!
Janine says
I’ve been on a mission this year to let go of more. The concept you mentioned is a great approach to de-cluttering. I definitely would prefer to have only items that I love around me. I’m getting excited just thinking about applying this technique to the remaining items I need to let go. Thank you.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Janine,
Good luck with decluttering. It is so rewarding and refreshing. I hope you’re enjoying the blog and thank you for your comment!