There was a podcast a month or so ago that touched on the idea of how clutter causes anxiety.
I’ve seen this happen in myself and in others.
Yet, I don’t think that clutter is anxiety inducing for everyone.
For those who do suffer from clutter anxiety, a viscous circle can begin.
The clutter can be a sign that you are in a stressful period.
Looking at the clutter can be a trigger for more stress and anxiety.
The challenge is to find a way out of the loop.
My Perspective
I believe that recognizing the situation early and working on strategies to stop the cycle is key.
We could get trapped in the cycle for months or even years, making the situation worse and more overwhelming.
Here are three tips for the next time we find ourselves in the clutter anxiety cycle:
- Find 15 minutes – Each day, spend 15 minutes tackling the clutter. Focus on organizing one area at a time. Starting with our desk or closet helps personal spaces feel more in control.
- Empty eMail – Sometimes the overwhelm comes from clutter that others don’t see. If email is causing stress, sort and delete as many messages as possible in one 15-minute block of time.
- Create a Routine – Set a morning or evening routine to clear the clutter in the room you spend the most time in. Maybe it’s the kitchen or the living room. Doing a little as part of your routine each day is much easier and less overwhelming than doing a lot at one time.
Your Turn
Do you feel yourself going into the clutter-anxiety cycle?
What strategies do you adopt to break the cycle?
Have you tried any of the approaches listed above?