Multiple studies have shown that clutter has a negative effect on us. The majority of us feel overwhelmed by clutter in our homes and we want less of it.
Women and moms are especially stressed out by clutter.
According to one survey:
91% of participants say they are overwhelmed by the clutter in their home;
90% of moms want less clutter;
57% feel stressed and 42% feel anxious when their home is cluttered/unorganized; and
Nearly 50% won’t invite people over because of clutter.
Let that all sink in.
The Physical Impact Of Clutter
Clutter increases our cortisol levels. Cortisol is also known as the stress hormone. The cortisol level actually rises as we are dealing with our excess belongings. The effect is more clear in women. The messier the women view their home to be, the higher the stress hormone levels.
People who are highly sensitive or prone to anxiety may also have a lower threshold for messiness:
“Looking around at a messy room can be a reminder of a long to-do list, unfinished tasks or, in general, can make moving around and finding things one needs more difficult.”
The Social Impact Of Clutter
Housekeeping and chores are among the most frequent arguments couples have.
And of course, children are affected by clutter too. Children who lived in extremely cluttered homes were reportedly less happy, had more difficulty making friends, had people over less often, and argued more with their parents.
Clutter increases our stress, is a source for arguments, and prevents us from enjoying our homes and inviting people over.
So why do we hold on to clutter?
Types Of Clutter
1. Some of us hold on to clutter out of fear of a future need.
What if I need it one day?
If you're prone to holding on to things just in case, it can be helpful to really go down that rabbit hole and play out the whole scenario.
Let's say in five years a situation arises where you could actually use this item. Would you find it when you'd need it? Could you use something else instead of it? How difficult/expensive would it be to replace should you actually need it?
2. Some of us hold on to clutter out of fear of letting go of the past.
Will I remember the moments without this item? What am I if I’m not what I used to be?
If you tend to hold on to things from your past, it can be helpful to recognize that these items can hold us back too, preventing us from becoming who we want to be right now.
The memories are not stored in the items themselves but they can serve as reminders. Consider taking a picture or repurposing the item.
3. Some of us hold on to clutter out of hope for our fantasy selves.
I really wanted to be a person who does XYZ. I hate doing XYZ. I will likely never do XYZ again. How can I let go of the fantasy I wanted to fulfill?
We all have dreams that never end up blossoming. It's okay to let that go too! By doing so you will give space and energy for new dreams to sprout.
4. Some of us hold on to clutter out of obligation or guilt.
If someone I love has given this to me how can I possibly let it go?
Would someone you love want you to keep something that doesn't add value to your life anymore, forever? Would they find out you let go of it?
Appreciate the kindness behind the gift and as Marie Kondo says, “The true purpose of a present is to be received.”
Our things tell a story.
Do you like the story your things are telling you?
It is in your power to choose what adds value to your life and
let go of what no longer serves you 💚