Marie Kondo’s Secrets For Deciding What To Keep
Marie Kondo, the Japanese organizing consultant and author, has taken the world by storm with her unique approach to tidying up. Her KonMari Method, as it’s called, has helped millions of people declutter their homes and live a more organized and joyful life. But how can you apply Marie Kondo’s principles to survival and preparedness? In this article, we’ll explore Marie Kondo’s secrets for deciding what to keep and how you can use them to streamline your prepping supplies.
1. Does It Spark Joy?
Marie Kondo’s famous question, “Does it spark joy?” is at the heart of her method. When going through your survival gear and supplies, ask yourself if each item brings you joy, or if it’s something that simply takes up space. This applies not only to sentimental items but also to practical tools and equipment.
For example, if you have a knife that is old and rusted but still does its job, ask yourself if it brings you joy or if you would prefer a newer, sharper knife that brings a sense of excitement and satisfaction when you use it. Choosing the items that truly bring you joy will not only make you happier but also ensure that you are surrounded by things that work well and suit your needs.
2. Is It Essential?
When it comes to survival and preparedness, it’s important to prioritize the essentials. Go through your supplies and determine if each item is truly necessary for your specific situation. If you find yourself questioning whether you really need it, chances are you can do without it.
Consider the purpose and functionality of each item. Does it serve multiple purposes? Can you find alternate ways to accomplish the same task with fewer items? Keep in mind that in a survival scenario, you may need to travel light and have limited space, so being ruthless in your decision-making process is crucial.
3. Is It Versatile?
Versatility is key in survival situations. Look for items that can serve multiple purposes and eliminate the need for carrying excess gear. For example, a bandana can be used as a makeshift tourniquet, water filter, or dust mask. A multi-tool can replace several individual tools, saving space and weight in your pack.
When deciding what to keep, think about how each item can be used in different scenarios. A good rule of thumb is to choose items that have at least three different uses. This way, you can maximize the functionality of your gear without sacrificing precious space or weight.
4. Is It Reliable?
In survival situations, you need gear that you can depend on. When sorting through your supplies, evaluate the reliability of each item. Is it well-made? Is it durable? Can it withstand harsh conditions?
Pay attention to the quality of the materials and construction. Look for reputable brands and read reviews from other users. Investing in reliable gear may cost a bit more upfront, but it will save you from headaches and frustration down the line.
5. Do You Have Multiples?
A common problem among preppers is overstocking on items. While it’s good to have backups in case of emergencies, there is a fine balance between preparedness and hoarding. Marie Kondo’s method encourages you to keep only what you truly need and let go of the excess.
When going through your supplies, take inventory of how many duplicates you have. Do you really need five flashlights? Or can you make do with one or two reliable ones? Consolidating your duplicates not only saves space but also ensures that the items you do have are in good working condition.
Conclusion
By applying Marie Kondo’s secrets for deciding what to keep, you can declutter your prepping supplies and optimize your survival gear. Remember to ask yourself if each item sparks joy, if it is essential, versatile, reliable, and if you have multiples. By keeping only what you truly need and love, you can create a streamlined and efficient prepping system that will serve you well in any situation.
My 2 Cents
- Don’t be afraid to let go of items that no longer serve a purpose in your prepping plan.
- Regularly reassess your supplies and update them as necessary.
- Consider donating unused items to others who may benefit from them.
- Remember, the goal of prepping is not just to accumulate stuff, but to be prepared and self-reliant.
Happy prepping!
