Clutter and the Vicious Cycle
I’ve always been a neat freak – you know, the type who loves the feeling of an organized, clean space. But ever since my accident a few years ago, things have been a bit of a mess, both figuratively and literally. The chronic pain and nerve damage have really taken a toll, making it harder for me to keep up with the constant flow of clutter that builds up in our home.
It’s a vicious cycle, this relationship between clutter and mental health. As Nourishing Minimalism so eloquently put it, “anxiety or depression can lead to a cluttery home and a cluttery home can lead to depression and more anxiety.” And let me tell you, I’ve been riding that rollercoaster for far too long.
The Cluttered Bathroom
One of the worst areas for me has been the bathroom. It started innocently enough – a few extra bottles of shampoo here, some cotton swabs and makeup there. But before I knew it, the countertops were overflowing, the drawers were jam-packed, and I could barely move around without tripping over something.
The research is clear: a study featured in the book Life at Home in The Twenty-First Century found a “definite link between an over-abundance of household objects (what they called ‘stressful’ home environments) and the homeowner’s health.” And let me tell you, my bathroom has been anything but a calming, restorative oasis.
The Child-Centered Home
One of the biggest contributors to the clutter in my bathroom has been the sheer amount of stuff that comes with having three kids. As the research shows, we’ve created these “child-centered homes,” with toys, clothes, and various kid-related items spilling out into every nook and cranny.
And the crazy thing is, I think a lot of it stems from my own guilt and desire to overcompensate. I work long hours to maintain our quality of life, which means I don’t get to spend as much time with the kids as I’d like. So I end up buying them more stuff, trying to make up for that lack of quality time. It’s a vicious cycle, and it’s taking a toll on my mental health.
The Overstimulation of Clutter
But it’s not just the kid stuff that’s driving me crazy. According to the same research, the average room has over 2,000 visible objects, particularly in areas like the office or computer space where we tend to spend a lot of time.
And let me tell you, my bathroom is no exception. Between the shelves of lotions and potions, the drawers full of makeup and hair accessories, and the random assortment of items that have accumulated over the years, it’s a wonder I can even think straight in there. No wonder I’m constantly feeling anxious and overwhelmed!
Overcoming the Emotional Attachment to Clutter
But the real kicker is that even when I do try to declutter, I get paralyzed by the emotional attachments and guilt. Whether it’s the sentimental value of an old trinket or the perceived monetary value of something I just can’t bring myself to part with, it’s like my brain just shuts down.
And let’s not forget about the sheer lack of time. Between work, family responsibilities, and the general chaos of life, who has the energy to tackle a massive decluttering project? It’s no wonder so many of us end up stuck in this never-ending cycle of clutter and depression.
Taking Baby Steps Towards a Clutter-Free Bathroom
But you know what? I’m done with feeling this way. I’m ready to take back control of my bathroom, and my life. And the key, I’ve learned, is to start small and take it one step at a time.
As Nourishing Minimalism suggests, I’m going to focus on one drawer or area at a time, and really commit to seeing it through. No more half-hearted attempts or getting overwhelmed and giving up.
I’m also going to try to be more mindful of my self-talk. Instead of telling myself I’m “too tired” or that I “hate doing dishes,” I’m going to reframe it in a more positive light. After all, I deserve a clean, serene bathroom, and I have the power to make it happen.
Embracing the Decluttering Journey
It’s not going to be easy, I know. But I’m determined to break this cycle of clutter and depression, one small step at a time. And who knows, maybe I’ll even find a bit of joy in the process. After all, as Nourishing Minimalism points out, “little steps can add up to big accomplishments.”
So here’s to a future where my bathroom is a calming, restorative oasis, and not a source of constant stress and anxiety. And who knows, maybe I’ll even inspire my kids to be a little more mindful about their own stuff, too. After all, a building and renovation company in Aberdeen, UK can only do so much – the real work has to happen at home, one drawer at a time.
