The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up // Book

I came across Marie Kondo's "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering" while looking for inspirational books to read this break, and I decided it was relevant for me because I have a desire to live more simply and more organized. Reading this book opened my eyes to a lot of mistakes that I have been making in regards to what "stuff" I have around my apartment, and I think getting rid of a lot of things has really made my mind feel more clear as well.

She is very blunt about things, and there were some parts of the book that I didn't agree fully with but I feel that her very honest and blunt description of what is necessary for a clean home is what makes it happen, no regrets and no cutting corners.

I didn't read the entire book, because some sections just simply did not apply to me. But for those that did, I was really surprised at how much the book helped me.

I followed her steps to decluttering starting with clothing. Basically, I went through every clothing item and discarding those that no longer fit, or aren't my style anymore, or do not bring me joy to wear. It was extremely difficult to part with some items but it feels rejuvenating to have a closet filled only with items that I know I will wear. Everything is organized, simple, and no longer crowded or messy, and I love it.

I tend to hoard lecture notes because I figure I may need them in the future, but I actually managed to get rid of a lot of notes I know I will never touch again (Let's face it, no one actually re-reads their notes). I cleaned my bathroom, throwing away old bottles and makeup that is from a long time ago or that I never use, and kept only the items that I will actually use.

I organized everything in a way in which putting things back where they belong is easier and quicker, rather than deciding a location based on how easy it will be to take things out. This has really helped me put things back where they belong and stay clean constantly.

Cleaning out my apartment has also given me inspiration to acquire new things that I will treasure greatly, and has given me motivation to save money for these things. I have started a system where I save half of my paycheck for an item, and put the other half in savings. Once I have enough for the item I want, I won't feel guilty buying it because I truly earned it.

All in all, I think anyone can benefit from reading this book because it is a great way to understand how a messy home and cluttered mind go hand in hand, and everyone deserves some peace of mind. I feel comfortable where I live now, and while I'm still trying to get my place exactly how I like and to what feels right, I made an extreme amount of progress, thanks to this book.

Next on my list of books to read are the following:

1. Yes Please - Amy Poehler (mainly just because Estee of essiebutton recommended it)
2. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey
3. Invisible Monsters - Chuck Palahniuk
4. Outliers - Malcom Gladwell