Misconceptions About the KonMari Method® – And What I Really Think

The KonMari Method® has been a hot topic in the media and private conversations for nearly 15 years. In 2011, Marie Kondō published her first book in Japan. Several more followed and were translated into many languages. In 2019, the first season of her Netflix series aired. Her method became a global phenomenon.

With popularity and success, however, come misunderstandings. Complex ideas are often oversimplified, reduced to keywords, or misinterpreted entirely. I’m writing this blog post to bring some clarity and help answer one important question:
What is the KonMari Method® – and what is it not?

Let’s dive into the facts and clear up some myths, so you can decide for yourself whether this path is right for you.

What Is the KonMari Method®?

Marie Kondō describes her method as:

“A simple but effective tidying system that uses a transformative criterion: choosing what sparks joy. With this method, you learn to listen to your inner voice and make space for the life you want to live.”

The goal of tidying is not perfection – it’s a happy, fulfilling life with more energy and focus.

10 Common Misconceptions About the KonMari Method®

1. “It’s About Minimalism.”

Marie Kondō never tells you how many things you're allowed to own. It's not about having as little as possible – it's about having what truly matters to you. Many people simply own more than they need and feel overwhelmed. Tidying up brings awareness, prevents duplicate purchases, and saves time spent searching for lost items.

2. “You Have to Fold Every Piece of Clothing.”

KonMari folding is helpful – it keeps clothes in shape and reduces wrinkles. But some garments, like delicate dresses or heavy coats, are best hung up. And that’s perfectly okay. The method is flexible.

3. “This Is Only for Rich People, Hoarders, or Perfectionists.”

Actually, it’s for anyone who feels overwhelmed by their belongings, wants to live more consciously, or simply seeks a better overview. Whether you want to reduce, organize, or just bring more mindfulness into your home, this method welcomes you.

4. “You Can Only Keep Things That Spark Joy.”

Yes – joy is the central criterion. But joy can be practical, too! Your tax documents might spark joy because a refund is on the way. Your vacuum cleaner may spark joy because it keeps your space clean. And if something doesn’t bring joy but still needs to stay, that’s okay too. If you're unsure, feel free to reach out – I'm happy to help you explore it.

5. “It’s Just About Tidying Your Stuff.”

Nope – it’s also about your inner life. The outer tidying process is deeply connected to an inner transformation. As you clear your space, you start to clarify your values, priorities, and dreams.

6. “You Have to Buy Fancy Storage Boxes.”

Not at all! Most people already have what they need: shoeboxes, small tech packaging, clean jars – simple things that do the job beautifully. The method is about working with what you have, not creating a picture-perfect Pinterest pantry.

7. “It’s Just a Trend.”

Yes, it might be trendy – but it’s also more than a trend. A real method with long-lasting impact. Its growing popularity is no accident: it helps people live more intentionally and joyfully.

8. “It’s Too Hard to Do.”

That depends on your situation. Some people find it easy – they read the book, follow the method, and are done in a weekend. Others need more time, emotional support, or help to sort through large amounts of belongings. Every journey is different, and there’s no shame in asking for support.

9. “You Have to Do It All at Once.”

Marie Kondō recommends tidying “in one go” – but that doesn’t mean doing everything in one exhausting marathon. It means making tidying a priority, sticking with it, and seeing it through. You’ll hit a point where your home feels just right – and it will be worth it.

10. “The Tidiness Won’t Last.”

If you follow the method fully – not just bits and pieces – the mess won’t come back. You’ll consume more consciously, every item will have a home, and it’ll be easier to keep things in order. It’s a long-term mindset shift.

What About Marie Kondō Herself?

Some say she’s either “obsessed with tidying” or “doesn’t tidy at all anymore.” In her book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Marie describes how important tidying was at one stage of her life. She then turned it into a method to help others. Now, as a mother of three, her priorities have shifted – but that doesn’t mean she’s abandoned her values. It simply means that family comes first.

In Summary

I hope this post has cleared up some of the confusion and given you a better understanding of what the KonMari Method® really is. It’s not about perfection or pressure – it’s about clarity, joy, and creating a home that truly supports the life you want to live.

If you have questions, feedback, ideas, or want to share your own experiences – I’d love to hear from you! Just send an email to hello@gesaordnung.de. Wishing you a sparklimg day, Gesa