Sometimes, it feels like I need to declutter every aspect of my life. I glance around and immediately feel the weight of the chaos:
Why are there so many clothes strewn about? How can such tiny kids create such massive messes? Do we really need this many toys? Who keeps buying these tiny LEGO sets, anyway?
Research shows that clutter can heighten anxiety levels. For those of us who struggle with anxiety, this is hardly new information; feeling overwhelmed is just part of our experience. We are especially sensitive to things that feel out of control or insurmountable, like the ever-growing mountain of toys that seems to multiply overnight.
It’s become a vicious cycle: My anxiety leads to more clutter, which in turn triggers even more anxiety, making it increasingly difficult to tackle the mess. And before I know it, I’m feeling angry.
So, what can you do when anxiety strikes but your home is perpetually in disarray?
Prioritize Calmness
I know this sounds easier said than done, but focusing on breathing deeply and repeating positive affirmations can work wonders. Sometimes, I’ll take a yoga class before tackling any cleaning; starting from a place of calm makes the process less stressful, and I end up scolding my family a lot less. It’s a win-win!
Shift Your Mindset
I get it—this may sound a bit cliché. However, I’ve found that walking through my home with thoughts like, “This space is going to look so much better!” can make a significant difference compared to thinking, “What did I do to deserve living in this mess?”
Make It Enjoyable
I like to turn up my favorite tunes while I declutter. On occasion, I’ll even pour myself a drink before diving into a closet. Whatever works for you!
Find a Balance
While stress-cleaning can yield great results, remember to take breaks. Stepping outside for a moment to clear your mind can be incredibly helpful.
Seek Support
Enlist a friend, family member, or even a professional organizer. Having someone to motivate you and keep you company can make the process less daunting.
Get Your Partner Involved
If your spouse isn’t keen on helping with the cleaning (or if your definitions of “clean” differ wildly), perhaps they can take the kids to the park while you tackle the housework. It’s essential that they support you in a way that works for both of you since they share this space too!
Plan Ahead
Set realistic expectations about what you can accomplish. Short-term goals can be much more manageable when long-term goals feel overwhelmingly distant. A clean house? Maybe someday. A tidy countertop? Now that’s doable!
Incorporate Cleaning into Your Routine
Sometimes, the pile of dirty dishes can be intimidating. I’ve found that if I make it a habit to wash them (or request my partner to do so) before bed, I wake up feeling less overwhelmed. With a clean sink, I can start my day off right and tackle other tasks more easily.
Take Small Steps
Consider cleaning in 30-minute intervals or focus on creating a peaceful retreat for yourself. If you have small kids, select a space where you can escape for a moment, like your bedroom or bathroom.
Avoid the Hard Parts If Necessary
If you struggle with guilt about getting rid of things, try placing items in a box. If you don’t retrieve anything from that box within a month, allow yourself to donate it. #ProcrastinationForTheWin
Find a combination of strategies that resonate with you, and take things one step at a time. You deserve a home that doesn’t trigger your anxiety, and with a bit of support, you can break this cycle.
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Summary
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter can significantly increase anxiety levels. To combat this, prioritize calmness, shift your mindset to focus on positive outcomes, and make the decluttering process enjoyable. Involve family members, plan effectively, and take small steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Remember, you deserve a clean, peaceful home that supports your mental well-being.
Keyphrase: decluttering anxiety solutions
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