Moving out can be as exciting as it is scary. Relocating to a new space can invite a lot of new and positive energy that can really give you a great boost. However, before being able to move, a lot of packing needs to be done. And we all know how much of a hassle that can be. But recently, Marie Kondo, a groundbreaking organizer author has introduced her own methods to packing, known as the KonMari method. This method can be a fun and organized way to pack everything you need (and only the things you need) in no time.
The method really takes out a lot of the stress and hassle in packing up, and reduces clutter once everything is unpacked. So if you’re gearing up for a move soon, read on to learn the basic steps to the KonMari packing method, and before you know it, you’ll be a master yourself.
Step One: Selection
The KonMari method is built on getting rid of everything that isn’t essential, but that doesn’t mean only packing practical and functional items. To begin, layout all of your stuff out on the floor. It might be better to this by category such as clothes, kitchen items, etc. Once you have everything laid out, simply examine the items and ask yourself if the item brings you joy. If the answer is yes, keep it, if the answer is no, get rid of it. Joy can come from all places, either from sentimental memories, practical function, or it may even just be a shirt that looks great on you. Whatever the reason is, remember to only bring with you items that spark joy. That’s the heart of the KonMari method.
Step Two: Fold Properly
The next thing to start doing is get packing. Now, we all have our own ways of folding our clothes to pack, some of us might even just throw them in a bag with no regard. That may work well, but that isn’t the KonMari way. Marie Kondo has devised a way for folding clothes that is incredibly practical. There are hundreds, if not thousands of videos online demonstrating how to fold the clothes in a way that takes up much less space, while still allowing you to see the design of the clothes very easily. By folding your clothes this way, you get to pack more efficiently while also making the unpacking process so much easier.
Step Three: Examine The Sentimental Items Last
Once you’ve set aside the items that spark joy, it’s time to look at the items you have that are purely sentiments. And it’s sad to say, it might be time to say goodbye to some of these things. Sentimentality is important, but there are times where it can get in the way. Before finalizing the things you’ll bring with you to your new space, make sure that everything has real value, and that means asking yourself how much sentimental value all these items have. While it may be great to keep tidbits from different areas of your life, there are times when bringing the notebooks you used in college or five teddy bears from old flings may actually get in the way of your life.
Step Four: Show Your Belongings And New Space Some Respect
The KonMari method doesn’t end with packing. It extends all the way to unpacking. You can show the space you’re moving into respect by not leaving things lying around. Make sure everything has its proper place in your new home. This also shows respect to the things you already have by not just dumping them in a corner of a room to be forgotten.
The KonMari method is very simply, though it can’t be done overnight. Choosing what needs to be brought and what can be left behind isn’t something you do the day before the move. This is something that needs to be done before moving, that way you have enough time to figure out which items really spark joy. And it also takes away some of the stress you may feel during moving day. So what’re you waiting for, it’s time to KonMari your way to your new living space!