Housekeeping: ugh. I’m frequently overwhelmed by the constancy and futility of dusting, mopping, laundry, dishes, vacuuming, etc. Don’t misunderstand me, I do chores, some more often than others, which often leads to dread when a particularly unpleasant, passed-over chore must be tackled. 

Organizing is supremely more satisfying. I enjoy restoring order to a bit of, stack of, or pile of chaos.

Recently I’ve been turned on to tidying. For a long time, I resisted the idea because it sounds a lot like a concept that a perfectionist might use, “Let’s make things neat and tidy.” I can just hear the voice of a syrupy sweet, preschool teacher looking down on me and my “play area.” I’m not messy, but sometimes my tendency to procrastinate does result in a certain amount of disorderliness. I’ve always equated tidiness with organization, and this misconception is the disconnect for most people, according to Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.” 

When one tidies things may become more organized, but one can be organized and still not be tidy. Feeling enlightened? 

Here’s the Cliff Notes version of Kondo’s book: (for all my 80s kids out there) 1) if a space does not accommodate its contents, then elimination is the only option, 2) there is no sacrifice when what is left is valued and treasured, 3) what is more wasteful, having something and not using it or throwing it away?

Her method, however, is horrifying. 

I pulled everything out of hiding, and I mean EVERYTHING, and assessed my space and the purpose of the space. I shook my head at the incoherency of my closet’s contents and the ridiculous number of t-shirts I had collected. Then I added back items actively in use or items I treasured. Kondo stresses not keeping something because it’s wasteful to get rid of it; it’s already being wasted from lack of use. 

I had 45 t-shirts! My drawer only fit 18, so I only kept the 18 that I couldn’t part with. Pictured are my top two: Verso L’alto (To the Heights) and my Ed Sheeran concert shirt, of course! I was amazed at the amount of random items collecting in my closet, but I was so happy to find $41 when I sorted through my handbags! The final pic is my half of the closet that I share with Kevin. Quite an improvement!

Is tidying magical? Is it life-changing? For me it is calming, refreshing, mind easing, and it makes the dreadful chores a little less mentally and physically taxing.  

Give it a try. You may score some cash, walk down memory lane, choose to live more simply, or find a bit of contentment. In any case, you win, and we can all use a bit more winning.