She Strengthens

The Hidden Costs of Tidying Up

As someone who’s always been comfortable with a bit of clutter, I never thought I’d find myself embarking on a whole-apartment tidying spree. But after binge-watching Marie Kondo’s Netflix show, I was inspired to give it a try. And to my surprise, I enjoyed the process and loved the results.

The Joy of Tidying

Watching others transform their spaces and lives through tidying sparked a desire in me to do the same. I devoured Kondo’s books and began the task of sorting through my belongings. Weeks later, my apartment was unrecognizable – my hallway was clear, my to-read pile was manageable, and my clothes drawers looked like they belonged in a lifestyle magazine.

The Privilege of Tidying

But as I reflected on my experience, I realized that tidying up comes with a cost. Not just the monetary cost of replacing items or buying organizational tools, but also the opportunity cost of spending time on tidying instead of other activities. This tradeoff is something many people can’t afford to make, especially those living paycheck to paycheck or struggling to make ends meet.

The Luxury of Time

For me, having the time and financial security to tidy up was a privilege. I didn’t have to choose between tidying and paying my rent or bills. I had the luxury of spending my time as I pleased, without worrying about the consequences.

The Financial Cost

In addition to the opportunity cost, I also spent around $500 on my tidying spree. This included framing posters, buying new bedding and towels, and purchasing organizational tools. These expenses may seem small to some, but they’re a significant burden for others.

The Importance of Perspective

As I look back on my tidying experience, I’m grateful for the privilege of being able to do it at all. I’ve come to realize that tidying up is not just about decluttering and organizing, but also about recognizing the privilege and luxury that comes with having the time and resources to do so.

A Newfound Appreciation

Tidying up has made my life easier and more enjoyable, but it’s also given me a newfound appreciation for the importance of perspective. I’m reminded that not everyone has the same opportunities or resources, and that’s something to be mindful of as we strive for a more organized and clutter-free life.