Have you ever heard of the Marie Kondo Concept?
I found this interesting about the neatness and tidiness in Japan. I have heard the concept of minimalism, which was nurtured in the Western world. On the surface, both the Marie Kondo Concept and minimalism seem to be lying on the same platter. But born in two different cultures.
I was born and bred in Sri Lanka, a South Asian country, which is comparatively clean. However, when I compare it with Japan, I see a significant difference.
Most of the personal homes, as well as public places in Japan, are very clean and tidy. Probably one might say that children are taught about neat tidiness and decluttering since pre-school, it is true. But there is another, emotional and spiritual philosophy lying there.
Neatness and tidiness are at the heart of Japan. Even very small apartments are arranged neatly and tidily — this is part of their philosophy. Marie Kondo, a Japanese woman, introduced this concept to the world.
Instead of Do i need this just ask, does this spark joy on me? So simple.
When it comes to decluttering, I would always say, I might need it someday” thinking (something we Sri Lankans know all too well!). Once I too was like that, but I am trying to get rid of that circle.
This is how we, Sri Lankans can bring Marie Kondo concept in tonour house.
Clothes– remove what do not spark joy in you. Donate it
Kitchen– Keep what you really want. It is a good way to keep the home clean, too.
Memories– Keep only very personal and sentimental, and store them in a tidy way.
Japanese society always respect even to the smallest thing, bring that into your house too. Your house protects you from harsh weather conditions so give that respect to it.
The KonMarie way doesn’t mean living with nothing; it means living with meaning.
Imagine a home where everything you see brings you happiness — where every corner breathes calm.
I feel so good and guilty free feeling when I ask the question, what sparks my joy ?
I am a person who loves beautiful things, and it fills my cup in every way, so when I come to cleaning my things, the question, what sparks my joy is truly helpful for me. Have you ever heard of this Marie Kondo concept?
