Imagine these scenarios. You have plans with friends and you have been looking forward to it. Maybe you are going out for dinner. You can see yourself leaning back in your chair relaxing, laughing, sharing stories. Maybe you are planning a day exploring and adventuring and the excitement has been building. You know these are the moments in life that you cherish.
You're getting ready to go meet them, you open your closet door or your dresser drawer to find something to wear. There's nothing to wear. You have too much and not enough all at the same time. None of the pieces work together. The shoes don't work with the pants. Nothing looks right. You look at the clock. You need to leave in 30 minutes. Still nothing. You can feel your stress level rising. You finally choose something but you don't like it and you don't feel good in it. You're stressed, you don't feel confident and maybe you're even feeling a little angry about it.
Or it could have gone this way. You open your closet and you can actually see individual pieces. They are things that you love and you love to wear. You have put this wardrobe together intentionally, purposefully, as an act of self care. You're relaxed and calm, feeling good and it shows in your energy and the way you are presenting yourself. You go meet your friends and you're thinking about them, and how grateful and excited you are for the time you will have with them. You feel joy. They also feel joy in your presence because your calm and relaxed demeanor are obvious. People feel good being around you.
If you relate more to the first situation, it is not your fault. We live in a fast-paced world that seems to have a motto of "more more more". More stuff, more information, more rush, more competition. Stress and anxiety are common challenges we all face. Juggling work, family, and everyday responsibilities can feel overwhelming. What if, rather than striving to improve, perfect everything, and be better, you momentarily hit "reset," relaxed your grip, and sharpened your focus, thereby taking command (not control) of life?
We make life more difficult than it has to be in so many ways. Our wardrobes and clothing are just one example.
One crucial yet often neglected aspect of self-care is the environment we live in. A clutter-free, organized space is not just about looks; it profoundly impacts our mental health and overall well-being.
Creating Your Clutter-Free Sanctuary
Begin by Simplifying.
Stop for a minute. A day. A week. Whatever you need in order to stop the "force and push" of life and regain your control.
Stop buying stuff. Just for a short time while you regain your focus. Stop the chaos.
Take this time to think about what you actually need.
Look at what you have.
Remove the things that add to the chaos. You'll only know what these things are if you are calm, focused, and ready to be honest with yourself. This is a time when it is very helpful to have a professional home organizer with you. The organizer helps keep the thinking clear and intentional.
Are there any gaps between what you actually need and what you have? If so, make a clear list. Preferably in your cell phone so it doesn't become a piece of paper to get lost in the shuffle.
Remove the items that are not needed. This is NOT waste. If there was any waste, it occurred when the choice to purchase the item was initially made. However, there's no judgment here; what's done is done, and truthfully, we've all been in that situation. At this stage, getting rid of clutter can actually prevent future waste.
Now. Take a deep breath. You've created some space. You've given yourself some space.
The Science Behind Clutter and Stress
Studies show that our environment can directly influence our emotional state. Clutter can cause the body to produce higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to negative effects on our health. When surrounded by disorder—whether it is overflowing drawers, messy countertops, or items scattered everywhere—our thoughts can become just as chaotic.
For instance, a study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that individuals living in cluttered homes reported up to 30% higher levels of stress and negative emotions compared to those in organized spaces. This mounting stress may leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and disconnected from your surroundings.
How Clutter Affects Mood and Confidence
A cluttered environment can leave you feeling helpless and out of control. The mess around you often becomes a mental weight, hindering productivity and joy. Conversely, a tidy space fosters feelings of accomplishment and empowerment.
Imagine walking into a clean, organized room. Instantly, you can feel a wave of positivity wash over you. The absence of clutter creates an atmosphere that encourages clarity, creativity, and motivation. In contrast, a messy environment can result in feelings of stagnation, fatigue, and a lack of focus.
Mindfulness and Clutter Management as Self-Care
Beyond the physical act of decluttering, incorporating mindfulness into your routine can enhance the benefits of a tidy space. Engaging in mindfulness practices—like meditation, deep breathing, or taking intentional pauses—can significantly decrease stress levels and improve your outlook.
By being present in your surroundings, you become more aware of how clutter affects your mental health. Mindfulness helps you appreciate the clarity and beauty in your environment, thus further alleviating stress. For example, setting aside just 10 minutes a day for mindful breathing in your newly organized space can help reinforce a sense of calm.
Transform Your Living Space
A clutter-free, organized environment is vital for self-care and can significantly boost your emotional health. By recognizing how clutter impacts your stress levels and emotions, you can actively work to create a peaceful and empowering space in your life.
Remember, a tidy space goes beyond mere aesthetics; it has the power to transform your life, enhance your confidence, and promote inner peace. As you embark on this journey toward organization, take it one step at a time and enjoy the process. Your mind—and body—will greatly benefit from a clutter-free sanctuary.