How do our spaces and “things” make us feel?
I’ve been doing a lot of research on finding time and space in our lives.
This week, there were a couple ideas that crossed my desk and made me realize I haven’t done much to explore the feelings associated with physical, mental, and digital clutter.
There was a blog post that mentioned “the joy of space”.
In this post, a woman was clearing things out of her home and her workspace.
She described the feeling of joy when open spaces were created in rooms. People would come into the space and twirl in the middle of the room as the openness brought them joy and freedom.
This idea was reinforced by a quote on another podcast.
“Organization is a feeling, not an aesthetic.”
Lisa Woodruff
My Story
These comments about the less tangible feeling of a room and space are prominent in my life right now as I’m working on updates around the house.
My office redo in the spring really brought this concept of space to the forefront.
When the room was last updated 12 years ago, I wanted a warm and cozy space.
The walls were painted deep orange, furniture, bookcases, and accessories were added.
The space was perfect.
Until it wasn’t.
Early this year, the room started to feel overwhelming and closed in.
The cozy feeling was turning to overwhelm.
There was just too much stuff.
So, I went in search of space.
The walls and desk were painted a light tan.
Most of the furniture came back in the room, but MANY fewer books and accessories.
The space feels so good!
My mind feels free and so much less overwhelmed.
The room now contains just the items I need and others that I love.
Your Turn
Does space in a room bring you joy?
Are there spaces in your home or workplace that feel overwhelming?
Could you create more space on your desk, in your office, or other areas you spend time working?