The KonMari Method: Why “Does It Spark Joy?” Still Works
Decluttering advice is everywhere — from quick hacks to long checklists. But in 2014, one question changed the way millions of people thought about their belongings: “Does it spark joy?”
The phrase, made famous by organising consultant Marie Kondo, became the heart of the KonMari Method. While simple, it challenges us to rethink not just what we own, but why we keep it.
The KonMari Method turns decluttering into an emotional, rather than purely practical, process. Instead of asking what should I throw away? it flips the question to what do I want to keep?
This subtle shift matters because it connects us to our values. When applied thoughtfully, the KonMari Method helps people surround themselves with items that serve a purpose or bring happiness, while letting go of what no longer fits their lives.
How the KonMari Method Works
At its core, the KonMari Method follows a few key steps:
Work by category, not by room. Instead of tackling one room at a time, focus on types of items (clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous, sentimental).
Hold each item in your hands. The act of physically touching an object helps you evaluate its place in your life.
Ask the question: Does this spark joy?
Yes → Keep it.
No → Thank it for its service and let it go.
Organise what remains. Items you keep should be stored neatly, with a “home” of their own.
Why “Joy” Matters in Decluttering
The KonMari Method isn’t about minimalism for its own sake. It’s about building an environment that reflects who you are and what you value.
Emotional clarity: You begin to understand what truly matters to you.
Mindful living: Every item kept is intentional, not accidental.
Lasting results: Because the process is values-based, clutter is less likely to creep back in.
Researchers also point out that environments filled with personally meaningful items can increase feelings of comfort, stability, and wellbeing. In other words, keeping things that spark joy isn’t frivolous — it’s psychologically beneficial.
Practical Ways to Try the KonMari Method at Home
Start with clothes. Clothing is often the easiest category to practice with — you’ll quickly see which pieces you love and which you never wear.
Save sentimental items for last. These are the hardest to part with, so build your decision-making skills first.
Visualise your ideal space. Before decluttering, imagine what you want your home to feel like. Let that vision guide your choices.
Be respectful. The KonMari Method suggests thanking items before letting them go. It may sound unusual, but it helps reduce guilt and builds closure.
A Common Misunderstanding
Critics sometimes dismiss the KonMari Method as unrealistic — after all, not every object in your home will spark joy. Few people feel an emotional connection to their vacuum cleaner.
But the principle works best when paired with practicality. Some items “spark joy” because they’re useful, reliable, or help create comfort indirectly. The aim isn’t to discard everything neutral, but to recognise what serves you and what doesn’t.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be about loss. The KonMari Method reframes it as an act of choosing. By surrounding yourself with items that serve a purpose or bring genuine happiness, you create a home that reflects the life you want — not the clutter of the past.
Ready to try the KonMari Method at home? Start with a single category and ask the question: does this spark joy? When you’re ready for the bigger items, Illawarra Tip Run is here to help with the rest.