"How Did They Do It?" With Organization Expert, 'Tidying Up' Author & Netflix's Marie Kondo!
Were you one of the millions of people asking yourself 'does this spark joy?' If you were, you weren't alone! As someone whose mission is to create products that help make people's lives easier and more organized (well, most of the time!) I was so thrilled when Organization Consultant, Author, Founder of KonMari and Star of Netflix's Tidying Up, Marie Kondo said YES to this interview. We discuss what led her to pursue a career in organization, moments she's most proud of and more...
Plus, we learned how the infamous 'spark joy' concept was born! This one was definitely a bucket list interview of mine so I hope you enjoy it as much as I did...
LA: What is one interesting thing that people may not know about your career?
M: People might not know that I initially developed an interest for tidying at an early age of only five years old. My grandmother’s effortless tidying and careful considerate regard for her home ultimately inspired me to cherish belongings and to live with intention and care. This guidance led me to begin my tidying consultant business at 19 years old while attending university in Tokyo.
LA: During your professional journey, what is one mistake you made that you learned the most from?
M: When I was a teenager in the thick of pursuing my passion for tidying, I experienced a difficult tidy session where my body became heavy and I passed out on the floor. During that time, I heard a voice telling me to “look at the items carefully and closely.” In this exact moment, I realized that instead of looking for reasons to discard an item, one should look for reasons to keep them – and that is how the “spark joy” concept was born. While this was a difficult experience, it ultimately resulted in the founding principles of The KonMari Method™.
LA: What are you most proud of at this moment?
M: At this moment, I am most proud of my family and my business. Watching my children grow is truly a source of my daily happiness. The same goes for The KonMari Method™️ and the wonderful consultants around the world who use the method to help others spark joy. Seeing people find passion through The KonMari Method™️ makes me feel a deep sense of gratitude.
LA: Your go-to beverage after a long week (specifics please!)
M: Matcha green tea is my go-to beverage! After a long week, the caffeine drink, warm or cold, wakes me up while theanine helps me relax and be mindful.
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