An unlikely star emerged on Netflix this past year. She is patient, polite, and she wants more than anything to help others organize their space. Her name is Marie Kondo, and her show Tidying Up has become a nationwide phenomenon—so much so that her name is now used as a verb (i.e. “kondo-ing your house”). I think adapting her philosophy of downsizing and organizing has many benefits, including financial.

One of the takeaways from Tidying Up is that each item in your home should serve a purpose or “give you joy.” Is that sweater you bought ten years ago still giving you joy? Is that yogurt-maker you used once and tossed in the back of your cupboard bringing you joy? If not, donate or get rid of them! From a financial perspective, it saves you money to not buy these items in the first place.

A few examples:

Do you really need to purchase this season’s latest wardrobe trends? Or would it be more prudent to buy a few classic pieces which will hold up, year after year?

Is it wise to buy that kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or other piece of sporting equipment? Or would it make better financial sense to rent these items when you need them?

Do you need to bring back gobs of souvenirs from your vacation? Or would you gain just as much from printing your photographs in a personalized photo book?

Start Kondo-ing…

Giving careful consideration to each purchase and resisting your impulses will not only help to keep your home clutter-free, it will prevent you from throwing away money on frivolous items. Though it’s not always easy to do, it pays to step back and think about a purchase before making your move.

Another tip: Don’t just buy things because they’re on sale! Though a good sale is alluring, this is a quick way to drop money and purchase items that won’t necessarily “give you joy” for long.

Part of Marie Kondo’s organizing philosophy is that every item in your home should “have a home.” When all your shoes, office supplies, kitchen tools, and clothing are neatly put in their space, it is a great visual reminder of what you already have. Instead of focusing on your lack of the latest____________(fill in the blank), focus on your abundance. You already have so much—do you really need more? This daily reminder can help ease your impulse to purchase new items.

Lastly, keep Marie Kondo’s methods in mind when you’re considering large purchases. The same thoughtfulness should go into your decision to purchase a cabin or a second home, buy an RV, or splurge for a luxury watch. Ask yourself what the pros and cons of each purchase will be, and if it will continue to bring you joy in five, ten, or twenty years.

In the end, Marie Kondo is not opposed to making purchases. She only hopes people will shop in a mindful, forward-thinking way. I couldn’t agree more.

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