Clothes you don't want to get rid of, old artwork your children made for you, an old jersey from your glory days ... it's clutter.
But how much does the clutter that fills our closets describe our emotions and mindsets? A new report from The Wall Street Journal is getting attention for diving into the mess.
"You don't want your kids to grow up. You don't want to let go of your parents. You miss your own childhood. You're convinced you'll fit into those clothes again." (Via The Wall Street Journal)
Some of the more chronic cases of clutter and disorganization are signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and dementia. And not being able to get rid of things can be related to perfectionism and issues about how you look.
So how do we break loose from these clutter-producing things? An organizational expert from ABC gives us a possible solution.
"See the space for what it is without anything in it. And then, start putting things back into it to fill the space that feels right." (Via ABC)
We realize that's easier said than done. Psychology Today points out the best solution depends on the type of clutter and the reason for it. So, basically, the solution starts with you and your "self-knowledge" and "preferences."
Earlier this month NBC listed six common "road blocks" that keep us from getting organized, and quick solutions to kick them to the curb. Here are the top three.
1. The issue: You're not good at organizing. Quick solution: "eliminate, categorize, and organize."
2. The issue: There's too much. Quick solution: Make small goals and work on them regularly. Remember, it's not a race!
3. The issue: Why start when the mess will be back in a couple weeks? Quick solution: Understand the difference between tidying up and organizing. Don't stuff things in a closet, find them a home! (ViaNBC)
The Wall Street Journal points out it's normal to feel emotions towards certain items, and if it's that important to you, make room for it in an organized manner.
