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When we declutter and organize with the KonMari Method, we use the test of "Does it spark joy?" to decide which of our belongings to keep. But what if that question leaves you scratching your head? Or doesn't inspire you? Or you just can't relate?
Consider a broader definition of "joy"
Joy doesn't always have to mean an intense feeling. Our most prized possessions might make us want to jump up and down for sheer delight. But sometimes joy can be much more subtle and low-key.
One example is the plain white soap dish in my kitchen. It's shaped with a small spout, allowing any water in the dish to drain directly into the sink. Does this make me want to sing my heart out? Not really, but it does save me from having to periodically clean out a wet, messy soap dish. It's just one small thing that contributes to my life in a positive way.
Don't get too hung up on the exact question
Maybe the question "Does this spark joy?" simply does not resonate with you. It can help to remember that this phrasing is just an approximation. In Marie Kondo's books, "spark joy" is a translation of the Japanese word tokimeku ("to flutter" or "to beat fast", like an excited heartbeat). In other words, when you touch the item, you feel something. You could try alternative questions along these lines, such as:
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"Is it beautiful?"
"Do I feel something when I touch this item?"
"Am I excited to use or wear this item?"
"Does this item make me happy?"
Or perhaps fluttery feelings aren't your thing, and you're focused more on practicality. Try asking:
"Does it have a purpose?"
"Do I use it often?"
"Does this item help me do the things I want to do?"
"Does this item make my life easier?"
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"I just don't know what I feel!"
If you feel undecided, ambivalent, or "blank" about an item, Marie Kondo suggests that you try praising it. Tell the item how much it improves your life. What features do you appreciate about it? Can you find something nice to say about the object's functionality, durability, design, color, size, or safety features?
If you can, then keep it with confidence. And if you really can't think of a single good thing to say, then feel free to let that item go (with gratitude).
Trust your instincts
Very often, it's when we start second-guessing ourselves and spending a lot of time ruminating that we come up against the wall of indecision. Try asking yourself, "What's my first impulse about this item?" and use that as your decision-making test.
In the end, "spark joy" is just shorthand for learning to listen to yourself and to trust your instinctive feelings about what belongs in your life and what doesn't. Find a way that works for you, and you can’t go wrong. 🌱