Marie Kondo’s success has inspired many to ask if their cheese grates “spark joy” and thank their college textbooks. Marie Kondo’s method of decluttering is ruthless and focuses on keeping only those things in your home that bring you joy, as shown on Netflix’s Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. Kondo encourages homeowners who are unhappy with something to give it back or throw it away.

It makes for great TV. Kondo uses this method to transform cluttered spaces into orderly havens. It works well for Netflix. But will it work for me? It is noble to want your home to bring joy, but it may not be the best way. Some items are just functional.

What have I done with this product in the last year?

While some of your stuff may be seasonal, you should use it at least once per year. You can use 12 months to determine if something is really useful. You’ve likely forgotten you owned something, and it’s been collecting dust for the past year.

Is this a benefit to my lifestyle?

This is one of my top priorities when shopping or decluttering. This helps me make sure I don’t just buy an item for the sake. It can help you to stop making impulse purchases and declutter your home. Is your life more enjoyable because you own a certain item? If it’s not, then why are you buying it?

Are there any other skills I could use for this job?

It doesn’t matter whether something brings you joy. You don’t have to buy something new if you already own it. You can get rid of your redundant items, such as your double desk calendars and your old food processor. You can also use your stuff more carefully and develop new uses for your favorites things.

What if I moved it?

When it comes to your stuff, moving is the best equalizer. You have to think about what you need in your new home when space is limited, and boxes are expensive. You don’t need to wait for moving day to get rid of clutter. You can quickly determine what is important and what should be given to another person by asking yourself this question.

Why do I keep this?

For my wedding, a friend made me a beautiful needlepoint painting. It was displayed at my wedding and has remained there for almost 16 years. Problem? It didn’t suit my decor, and I didn’t love it. The picture is more vintage-country than my home, which is industrial in style.

It was pure guilt that I kept the photo, I realized. It didn’t match any of my other photos, and I felt very negative every time I saw it. I finally decided to give it away. I realized I was just as grateful to my friend. I appreciated all the effort that went into this gift. It was also something I realized could be enjoyed by someone else.

Consider why you keep certain items in your house. Is it an obligation? Guilt? Or because you love something so much that you can’t imagine life without it. This is a great question and may lead to some unexpected answers.

Could this be of any use to anyone else?

It is easy to become attached to items in our homes. Even though they aren’t necessary to be on the shelf, they can often become tokens of our memories and experience. Is it stealing someone else’s chance if you don’t use something? You might find it difficult to let go of things, so be pragmatic. What if someone else loved it as much as you? When you know your stuff will be in good hands, it is easier to give it a new home.

Would I purchase this item again?

When you are decluttering, think about whether you would pay full price if you saw the item in a shop today. You will quickly notice which items you love and don’t need. Over the years, your tastes, preferences and lifestyle will change. Likely, you won’t be excited to see a picture frame, vase, or throw pillow in the store.

Is it making me happy?

Okay, Kondo was right. Although “sparking joy” shouldn’t be your only criteria for decluttering, it can help. It is easy to get stuck in a rut. It is also possible to make a fresh start in minimalism. The truth is that stuff can make us happy. It doesn’t matter if the stuff brings back memories, is useful, or makes you happy. Be careful not to ascribe too much happiness to your stuff.

Decluttering your home will help you keep it tidy and organized, reducing stress. The act of decluttering your home can be very stressful. Marie Kondo is the leader in the anti-clutter movement. However, expecting your belongings will spark joy may be too heavy on your beloved umbrella or childhood toy. You’ll be able to see the whole process objectively and achieve a clutter-free, organized, and even joyful home.