We’ve all heard the phrase “a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind,” and it turns out there’s some truth to it. Research has shown that being organized can have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. I’m passionate about coaching people on the relationship between organization and mental health, and offer valuable tips on how to get, and keep your physical and mental spaces organized.

The Benefits of Organization

When we have a cluttered or disorganized physical space, it can be difficult to focus and be productive. Our brains are wired to process visual stimuli, so when we’re surrounded by chaos, it can be overwhelming and stressful. On the other hand, when our physical space is organized, it’s easier to focus and be more productive. In addition to the practical benefits, having an organized physical space can also have a positive impact on our mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.

Organizing Our Mental Space

Just as it’s important to keep our physical space organized, it’s also important to keep our mental space organized. Our mental space refers to the thoughts, emotions, and beliefs that we have. When we have a cluttered mental space, it can be difficult to focus and make decisions. To help organize our mental space, we can try practicing mindfulness, meditating, journaling, or engaging in therapy. By taking the time to reflect on our thoughts and emotions, we can gain greater insight into our mental state and take steps to reduce stress and anxiety.

Tips for Staying Organized

So, how can we keep our physical and mental spaces organized? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Declutter regularly. Set aside time each week to go through your belongings and get rid of anything that no longer serves a purpose. This can help keep your physical space organized and reduce stress.

Create a routine. Having a daily routine can help you stay organized and reduce stress. By knowing what you need to do each day, you’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

Keep things in their place. Designate a specific place for everything in your home or workspace. When you’re done using something, put it back where it belongs. This will help you stay organized and reduce the time you spend searching for things.

Practice mindfulness. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and be present in the moment can help you reduce stress and anxiety. Seek support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and struggling to keep your physical or mental space organized, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to help you get back on track.

In conclusion, organization can have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. By taking steps to declutter and keep our physical and mental spaces organized, we can reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve our overall mental health.

Dan Cunningham, CPC, is a coach specializing in kitchen, home, and life organization, implementing unique strategies to reduce stress and anxiety, resulting in long term positive impacts on overall health and wellness.