# Marie Kondō

> Japanese organizing consultant, author and television show host (1984-)

**Wikidata**: [Q11638963](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11638963)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marie_Kondo)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/marie-kondo

## Summary
Marie Kondō is a Japanese organizing consultant, author, and television show host best known for developing the KonMari method, a minimalist approach to tidying and decluttering. Her 2011 book *The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up* became an international bestseller, sparking a global movement around mindful organization. She has since hosted the Netflix series *Tidying Up with Marie Kondo* and built a brand centered on simplicity and joy.

## Biography
- **Born**: October 9, 1984
- **Nationality**: Japanese
- **Education**: Studied at Tokyo Woman's Christian University
- **Known for**: Creating the KonMari method of organizing and decluttering
- **Employer(s)**: Self-employed (founder of KonMari Media, Inc.)
- **Field(s)**: Organizing consulting, writing, television hosting

## Contributions
Marie Kondō has made significant contributions through her books, television series, and the KonMari method. Her 2011 book *The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up* introduced her philosophy of keeping only items that "spark joy," which has been translated into multiple languages and sold millions of copies worldwide. She later published follow-up books, including *Spark Joy* (2016), which expanded on her method. In 2019, she launched the Netflix series *Tidying Up with Marie Kondo*, which brought her method to a broader audience and further popularized her approach to decluttering. Additionally, she has developed a certification program for KonMari consultants, training professionals to teach her method globally.

## FAQs
### **What is the KonMari method?**
The KonMari method is a decluttering and organizing technique developed by Marie Kondō, which emphasizes keeping only items that "spark joy" and discarding the rest. The method involves categorizing belongings (e.g., clothes, books, sentimental items) and tidying them in a specific order to create a more mindful and organized living space.

### **What are Marie Kondō's most famous books?**
Marie Kondō's most famous book is *The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up* (2011), which introduced her KonMari method to a global audience. She also authored *Spark Joy* (2016), a follow-up guide that provides more detailed instructions on applying her method.

### **What is *Tidying Up with Marie Kondo*?**
*Tidying Up with Marie Kondo* is a Netflix series that premiered in 2019, where Kondō helps families and individuals declutter their homes using her KonMari method. The show highlights emotional and practical transformations, reinforcing her philosophy of mindful organization.

### **Where did Marie Kondō study?**
Marie Kondō studied at Tokyo Woman's Christian University, a private university in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 1918.

### **What awards or recognition has Marie Kondō received?**
Marie Kondō was listed in *Time* magazine's Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

## Why They Matter
Marie Kondō has revolutionized the way people approach decluttering and organization, shifting the focus from mere tidiness to emotional well-being. Her KonMari method has inspired millions to adopt a more mindful relationship with their possessions, leading to reduced stress and improved living environments. By blending practical organization with philosophical insights, she has created a cultural phenomenon that extends beyond cleaning to influence lifestyle choices globally.

## Notable For
- Developing the KonMari method, a globally recognized approach to decluttering.
- Authoring *The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up*, an international bestseller.
- Hosting the Netflix series *Tidying Up with Marie Kondo*.
- Being listed in *Time* magazine's Time 100.
- Founding KonMari Media, Inc., and training certified KonMari consultants worldwide.

## Body
### **Early Life and Education**
Marie Kondō was born on October 9, 1984, in Japan. She developed an interest in organizing at a young age, often tidying her family's home. She later studied at Tokyo Woman's Christian University, where she refined her approach to decluttering.

### **Development of the KonMari Method**
Kondō began her career as an organizing consultant, eventually formalizing her method into what is now known as the KonMari method. The core principle is to keep only items that "spark joy," discarding the rest with gratitude. This method emphasizes tidying by category (e.g., clothes, books, papers) rather than by location, ensuring a more thorough and lasting organization.

### **Publications**
In 2011, Kondō published *The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up*, which became a global phenomenon. The book has been translated into over 40 languages and sold millions of copies. Her follow-up, *Spark Joy* (2016), provided additional guidance on applying her method to various aspects of life.

### **Television and Media Presence**
Kondō's influence expanded with the 2019 Netflix series *Tidying Up with Marie Kondo*, where she worked with families to transform their homes. The show's success further popularized her method and introduced her to a broader audience. She has also appeared on various talk shows and media outlets, discussing her philosophy.

### **Business and Brand**
Kondō founded KonMari Media, Inc., which manages her brand, including books, consulting services, and a certification program for KonMari consultants. Her method has been adopted by individuals, businesses, and even schools, demonstrating its versatility and impact.

### **Cultural Impact**
Kondō's work has transcended organizing, influencing broader discussions about minimalism, mindfulness, and well-being. Her approach has been featured in academic research on decluttering and mental health, and she has been recognized as a thought leader in lifestyle optimization.

### **Recognition and Awards**
Kondō was included in *Time* magazine's Time 100 list, highlighting her as one of the most influential people in the world. Her method has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, earning her a dedicated global following.

### **Legacy**
Marie Kondō's legacy lies in her ability to transform a mundane task—tidying—into a meaningful practice that enhances quality of life. Her method continues to inspire people to live more intentionally, making her a defining figure in modern lifestyle movements.

## References

1. [Source](https://profile.ameba.jp/ameba/konmari/)
2. Czech National Authority Database
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. National Diet Library
5. CiNii Research
6. MusicBrainz
7. [Source](https://metro.co.uk/2019/01/08/marie-kondo-star-netflix-show-tidying-8318511/)
8. Open Library
9. [Source](https://www.sankei.com/life/news/171006/lif1710060015-n3.html)
10. BBC Things
11. Ameblo
12. [Home Page – KonMari | The Official Website of Marie Kondo](https://konmari.com/#footer-social)
13. Library of Congress Control Number
14. Google Knowledge Graph
15. YouTube API
16. [Source](https://www.podchaser.com/creators/marie-kondo-107ZzpvPaD/appearances)
17. [KonMari | The Official Online Store of Marie Kondo](https://shop.konmari.com/)