The Inspiration
The organising expert and best-selling author of ‘The Life-Changing Magic Of Tidying Up’ on choosing joy through decluttering and transforming the home into a space of inspiration.
... CONNECT WITH THE CULTURAL HABITS OF A FOREIGN CITY? On a recent trip to Sweden, I learned that people there take great care to create joy-sparking homes and are intentional about spending time at home— very much akin to the KonMari philosophy. ... PICK UP A GOOD READ FOR THE NEW YEAR? I am currently reading Donabe: Classic And Modern Japanese Clay Pot Cooking, a book on the art of Japanese donabe cooking. This traditional cooking vessel is deemed the one-pot wonder for all kitchen needs, and requires up to two weeks to be made. Not only is the book visually appealing and an excellent reference for recipes, but I can also palpably feel the author’s love for donabe. ... VENTURE OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE? I recently visited a fascinating spy museum called Spyscape in New York, where you dodge lasers, crack codes, and receive a personalised spy profile developed by a former head of training at British Intelligence. I was surprised to learn that I was quite good at it—possible career change. ... UNCOVER YOUR TRUE CALLING WITH A BOOK? Nagisa Tatsumi’s book The Art Of Discarding first sparked my love of tidying. I was so absorbed with the topic I quite literally turned my room upside down. When I was finished, I was amazed by the transformation. The air felt fresher, the room looked brighter, and even my mind felt clearer. I realised that tidying could have far more impact than I had ever previously imagined. My tidying journey has been filled with surprises and joy. ... SHARE THE JOY OF TIDYING TO A WIDER AUDIENCE? In my new series on Netflix, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, I guide people who are at crossroads in life and are ready to tackle the clutter in their homes using the KonMari method. The series follows the emotional transformations of a family of four who has relocated from a four-bedroom home in Michigan to a Los Angeles apartment; a recently widowed woman grappling with how to let go of her beloved late husband’s possessions, but not his memory; a young couple living in West Hollywood who are ready to leave their college lifestyle behind; as well as soon-to-be parents who realise it’s time to let go of the past to pave way for their future family. ... TAKE PRIDE IN THE SPIRIT OF YOUR HOME COUNTRY? I love the craftsmanship in Japan and the delicacy of artisanship that is steeped in every aspect of our culture. When visiting Japan, I recommend participating in a unique workshop, like how to make kawaii bento boxes with Japanese cartoon characters—beats your typical tourist attraction any day. www.konmari.com