I've always loved organizing! 

As long as I can remember, I've enjoyed sorting and organizing physical things. It feels fun, natural and easy for me—it sparks joy! But until the pandemic, it never occurred to me to make it a career.

Instead, after college, I taught English in rural Japan. The experience made a lasting impression on me. The Japanese people I met were incredibly thoughtful. And I noticed they took exceptional care with physical things.

I was especially impressed by:
  • Schools in Japan, kept tidy in large part by students' diligent tidying efforts
  • Deep storage closets in homes that organize and conceal personal belongings
  • A tradition of gift-giving that includes beautiful, creative gift wrapping

Years later in New York, I made 'working with things' a full-time job. I worked in management at several Crate&Barrel housewares stores.  I loved maintaining meticulous store displays and helping customers with their purchase decisions. 
Over time, I began doing what many of us do. I lived in progressively larger spaces. And gradually I accumulated more physical things—one by one—to fill my home with comfort and meaning.

The pandemic forced me to reckon with my things.

While working from home in 2020, I suddenly became aware of how much stuff I owned. I noticed my closet contained many clothes I rarely wore. I realized I'd never use all the dinnerware and table linens I had lovingly accumulated. And piles of my well-meaning but half-finished projects lurked everywhere. 

The KonMari Method® offered me a fresh start.

In late 2020, I discovered The KonMari Method. Many things had changed for me in 2020 and I felt I wanted a fresh start. In a single night, I read Marie Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Right away, I liked the approach! Tidy up completely and in one go!

In 2021, I started and completed my Tidying Festival. I discovered that parting with things was harder for me than I expected. However, I got better at it as I went along! I ended up letting go of about 60% of my clothing, books, papers, komono and sentimental items. It felt great! 

"The real joy begins after you finish tidying."  KonMari Consultants use this phrase often—because it's true! After I'd let go of physical things that no longer sparked joy for me, I found I had more time to devote to activities I love! Clutter was no longer distracting me from my real priorities. And every room in my home felt calmer and more joyful at the same time. It was such a relief! 

Real photos from my own KonMari tidying experience.

Tap any photo to scroll.

"Just because you love it doesn't mean you have to own it."

This was the most important thing I learned on my own KonMari journey. I still remind myself of this whenever I feel the impulse to purchase something new. How else can I experience this great thing without owning it?

There is power in the KonMari Method. Marie Kondo's method has been popular for nearly ten years. But until I read the book, I didn't understand why it was so popular. Now, I have experienced the method for myself. I see and feel the benefits of it every day. And I'm so thrilled to be teaching this highly effective method to others!

Don't be afraid to consider getting home organizing support. If you would like to talk with me about what a guided KonMari experience could look like for you, I'd love to connect with you. You will not experience any sales pressure from me—just thoughtful interest and compassion.

​Thank you for reading my story!
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Me with two of my adult Japanese students of English, Mr. Tetsuya and Mrs. Naritani. Tokushima, Japan. 1992.