When "Does it Spark Joy?" Doesn't Work: Try the "Poop Test" for Decluttering
/We’ve all heard of the famous KonMari Method—Marie Kondo’s philosophy of keeping only the things that “spark joy.” It’s been a game-changer for many, helping people clear out their clutter and live more organized, intentional lives. But what if asking yourself, “Does this spark joy?” just doesn’t resonate?
Let’s be real—sometimes joy isn’t exactly the first thing you feel when you’re staring at a pile of random items you’ve accumulated over the years. If you're someone who has ADD, ADHD, or just struggles with the classic “spark joy” test, there’s another method circulating that's gaining traction for its hilariously practical approach: The Poop Test. Yes, you read that right.
The Poop Test Explained:
Here’s how it works. Instead of asking yourself if something sparks joy, you ask yourself, “If this item was covered in poop, would I take the time to clean it or would I toss it?” The logic here is pretty simple: if you wouldn’t go to the trouble of saving it in a worst-case scenario, it’s probably not worth keeping.
And, according to some of my friends with ADD/ADHD, this test works wonders. Why? Because it cuts right through the emotional clutter and gets to the heart of how much you actually value something. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense method that makes the decision-making process clearer—sometimes even easier.
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Why It Works:
It’s Emotionally Clearer: The KonMari Method asks you to assess an emotional attachment, which can be tricky for those who struggle with decision-making or emotional attachment to everything. The poop test cuts straight to the practical reality—do you care enough about this item to put in real effort to save it?
It Eliminates “What-If” Thinking: You know those moments when you’re holding a thing, thinking, “What if I need this in the future?” The poop test shuts that down. If it’s not worth cleaning, it’s not worth keeping.
It’s Funny and Lighthearted: Sometimes, decluttering can feel overwhelming. The poop test adds a bit of humor to the process, which can make the daunting task of organizing a little more fun.
How to Use the Poop Test:
So, how do you implement this laughably simple method? Here’s a breakdown:
Grab an Item: Pick something from your clutter—anything from clothes to kitchen gadgets.
Ask the Big Question: “If this were covered in poop, would I actually take the time to clean it off, or would I throw it away?”
Decide: If you’d clean it because it’s too valuable to let go, keep it. If the mere thought of scrubbing it off makes you cringe and reconsider the item's importance, it’s time to toss or donate.
It’s All About What Works For You:
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to decluttering and organizing. While the KonMari Method has worked for many, the poop test offers an alternative for those who find decision-making more difficult or who need a more black-and-white way to assess the value of their belongings. Whether you’re neurodivergent or just overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering, finding a method that works for you is the most important part.
At the end of the day, whether you're asking if something sparks joy or if you'd go to extreme lengths to save it, the goal is the same: to create a space that feels peaceful, functional, and clutter-free.
So, next time you’re faced with that mysterious drawer full of random items, give the poop test a try. You might be surprised by how quickly and easily you can make decisions—and maybe even have a laugh or two along the way!