If you try to organize things in the wrong order, you could end up getting frustrated too early and give up. According to the proven KonMari Method, it's best to start with your clothing. Typically, clothing is not sentimental and is therefore easier to get rid of. After all, you know if you haven't worn something in a year or more, you probably won't wear it again. Next, go through your books, then papers, then miscellaneous items. You should save sentimental items for last. These can be really hard to sort through and let go of, so it's best to save it for the end when you've been able to refine your ability to sort through your belongings and decide what you need and what brings you joy. 

If you have furniture or home décor that works with your upcoming interior design, make sure those pieces are in the rooms where they belong. As for all of the things you no longer need, it's time to let them go. Don't try to make something fit where it doesn't make sense and don't fill your garage with things you won't be using or displaying just because you "might need it someday." In that case, all you're doing is wasting space, storing things you no longer use.

The best way to organize the things you will be getting rid of is to have three categories: trash, recycle, and donate. The "trash" items are easy to get rid of. Simply bag them up and put them out with the rest of your garbage. For large items that are too big for regular pickup, contact your trash company to arrange for a special pickup. The "recycle" items are easy also if you have curbside pickup. If not, find a local spot that accepts recycling items. If you have no accessible place near you that does this, then you'll have to add your recyclables to the trash category.

Your "donate" pile will sit in your home indefinitely if you don't make plans to get it out of the house. Find a local thrift store or shelter that accepts the things you have to donate and plan a definite date when you will deliver your stuff to them. Write it down on your calendar. Sometimes the simple act of giving yourself a deadline will inspire you to act. If you can find a place that offers pickup service for donations, even better!

Once you have imagined exactly what you want each room to be and removed everything that does not fit that vision, it's time for the fun to begin! Now you'll have a clean slate to start your redesign with John Elliott Interiors! Visit our home interiors store at the Lake of the Ozarks to pick out the new furniture and home décor that will bring your dream rooms to life. Our skilled and knowledgeable interior designers are here to guide you, answer questions, and give advice. From beginning to end, the overall process may take a little time, but it will be well worth it when you are enjoying your newly designed home!

KonMari by Marie Kondo

Marie Kondo is a tidying guru. She teaches tidying methods that get rid of things in your life that no longer bring you joy. It can be hard to understand at first. It's not just about things you like or things that you've had for a long time. It's about belongings that spark joy in you, specifically when you are holding it in your hands. If you have a hard time identifying that feeling, pick something that you know brings you joy... maybe a meaningful gift from a loved one.

Once you know what the feeling of "sparking joy" is, you go through the items in your home, holding them in your hands and asking yourself "Does this bring me joy?" If the answer is "yes", you keep it. If the answer is "no", then you thank the item for the purpose it served in your life and let it go.