Organizing for Joy: The KonMari Method and Executive Function

The journey to an organized space is about creating an environment that simplifies your life and brings you joy. The clutter on our desks, in our closets, and in our minds can often feel overwhelming. However, by using a method like the KonMari method, you can transform your space and your mindset.

Professional organizer Katherine Picott, a certified KonMari consultant, explains that organizing is a skill that can be learned. It requires creating systems and structures that help you manage your space efficiently. This process is a great way to improve your executive function skills, which are essential for staying organized as an adult, a student, or a young adult.

The Biggest Barriers to Organization and How to Fix Them

Before you can organize, you need to understand what's getting in your way. A few common barriers that can stop you from getting started.

• Cluttered Surfaces: We often put things down with the intention of putting them away later, but "later" never comes. This habit quickly leads to clutter and stress. The simple solution is to return items to their designated homes immediately.

• Misaligned Habits: If your organizing systems don't match your natural habits, they won't stick. Don't organize your space based on what you see in magazines or on social media. Instead, design a system that works with how you actually live.

• Attachment Issues: Sometimes, we hold onto items out of a sense of obligation. This can be a form of procrastination. Acknowledge that you might be deferring action and decide whether the item truly serves you now.

How to Declutter Sentimental Items and Create Joy

Dealing with sentimental items can be the hardest part of decluttering. It's challenging to part with things that remind us of cherished memories or loved ones, but it’s important to remember that memories live within you, not in objects. You won't lose the memory by letting go of the item.

To make this process easier, follow the KonMari method, leaving sentimental items for last. Start with categories that have less emotional weight, like clothes or books. By the time you get to the sentimental items, you'll have practiced your decision-making skills and will be better equipped to handle the emotional aspect.

The ultimate goal of decluttering and organizing is to transform it into a joyful, uplifting experience. Instead of focusing on what you need to discard, concentrate on what you want to keep. By embracing a positive mindset and surrounding yourself only with items that truly bring you joy, you eliminate the need for sentimental clutter and create a space that nurtures you. This process is a key part of developing strong life skills and improving your mental health.

Build Sustainable Habits with Accountability and Support

Organizing and decluttering are skills that require executive function, including planning, prioritization, and sustained effort. If you often feel scattered, stuck, or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, our Adult Group Program can help.

This flexible, supportive group coaching program is designed to help adults build sustainable life habits, strengthen executive function and organization skills, and follow through on their goals, all with the encouragement of a like minded community.

If you’re ready to stop struggling alone and make meaningful, lasting changes to your habits, our Adult Group Program provides the support, structure, and clear path forward you need to succeed.