7 Reasons Why Marie Kondo Would NOT Want You To Watch Hoarders

In the pursuit of a clutter-free and joyful living space, we often seek motivation and inspiration from various sources. One such source, the TV show 'Hoarders,' has gained quite a following. While its intention may be to encourage tidying up, I'd like to share seven compelling reasons why watching 'Hoarders' might not be the most effective route to a tidier and happier home. Let's embark on this journey together with a touch of zest and the spirit of sparking joy!

As a Master KonMari Method® Consultant, I am professionally trained in using compassion and self-love to make lasting changes in your home and your life.  This is the strongest and most powerful form of motivation and I know that motivation that comes from a place of shame and guilt, like watching Hoarders, is a temporary fix and here is why:

1. Fear vs. Joy

The first reason to reconsider 'Hoarders' as a motivational tool is the stark contrast between fear and joy. While 'Hoarders' may instill fear or dread, the KonMari Method® focuses on sparking joy. Fear tactics might yield temporary results, but the lasting change comes from a place of positivity, enthusiasm, and happiness.

2. Self-Compassion

Watching 'Hoarders' can often lead to self-criticism and negative self-perception. Instead of berating ourselves, the KonMari Method® approach encourages self-compassion. We're all on unique journeys, and tidying should be a self-loving process, not one filled with self-blame.

3. Overwhelm and Despair

The dramatic portrayal of hoarding situations can leave us feeling overwhelmed and even hopeless. Tidying with joy is about taking small, manageable steps, savoring each moment of progress. It's a journey that fills your heart with optimism, not despair.

4. Sustainable Change

The transformations on 'Hoarders' are often quick fixes, and the people on the show even find the clutter returns as fast as it had vanished. Sustainable change requires a deep understanding of our possessions, the purpose they serve, and the joy they bring. It's about transforming our mindset and habits, not just our surroundings.

5. Inspiration Over Judgment

Instead of judging others' situations, the KonMari method encourages us to find inspiration in our own lives. What sparks joy for one person may not be the same for another. Embrace the diversity of perspectives and seek inspiration in your unique journey.

6. A Positive Perspective

Watching 'Hoarders' can create a negative perspective of decluttering, framing it as a daunting and overwhelming task. The KonMari method, on the other hand, views tidying as a positive and uplifting experience. It's about creating a home that truly reflects your values, dreams, and, most importantly, your joy. It’s also important to keep in mind that ‘Hoarders’ is reality TV - what you see on screen is probably not how it really is, and was created specifically for entertainment.

7. Community and Support

Last but not least, the power of community and support cannot be underestimated. Tidying with joy is a journey best taken with the support of friends, family, and fellow enthusiasts. Watching 'Hoarders' doesn't offer that sense of community; instead, it can make us feel isolated and alone in our struggles.

8. Reality TV Is Not Real

It’s important to remember that the ultimate goal of reality television is to entertain. What you watch is not the whole picture, as the 30 minute episode has been edited. We can never know what truly happens to what happens to the real people once the cameras are gone.

In the world of tidying and decluttering, the KonMari Method® focuses on embracing joy, creating lasting change, and nurturing a positive perspective. While 'Hoarders' may provide a temporary burst of motivation, it is probably doing more harm than good. So, let's bid farewell to 'Hoarders' and, instead, choose a path that celebrates joy, self-compassion, and the power of community. Your tidying journey should be a joyful one, where you savor every moment of transformation and create a home that sparks joy and reflection. Do you find yourself only willing to clean after watching an episode of Hoarders?