Photo by Vlada Karpovich from Pexels 

Clutter is simply a collection of things lying around in an untidy mess. However, it can look tidy to the extent that you won't even realize that it is clutter. Clutter often happens because of indecision. It happens when you’re yet to decide what is really important to you.

Barbara Hemphill defined clutter as nothing more than postponed decisions.

Physical clutter can be the things you don’t use, clothes and shoes you haven’t worn in a while, or tools you don’t use. They can be things you don’t want to deal with, maybe they don’t even belong to you and you’ve been planning to return them for a while.

Clutter can also be stuff you don’t even know why you have them.

In case you’re wondering,

"What has clutter got to do with my mindset?”

Wait a moment. 

A cluttered space equals a cluttered mind. If your space is cluttered, then it will affect your mind.

When we’re talking about space, it’s not just your home. 

Space can refer to your vehicle, laptop, or handbag.

Your kitchen may be uncluttered yet your handbag may be full of clutter and vice versa.

You need to conserve your mental energy. In this 21^st century, it’s imperative to prioritize your mental health. When you have control over clutter, you will respond better to stress and make sound decisions.

Mind you, clutter stems from a scarcity mindset. When you have this type of mindset, it will make you believe resources are limited. So, it's either you keep accumulating stuff or have nothing.

Our worth isn’t even based on our possessions.

Here are some perks of getting rid of clutter:

· You will be happier.

· You will be more productive and creative. More so, you will have fresh streams of ideas.

· You will find your stuff easily. Say goodbye to misplaced keys and the likes.

· Improved self-esteem.

· Better relationships.

People who are battling with clutter usually have the following traits:

· They have perfectionist tendencies.

· They procrastinate a lot.

· They tend to hoard.

The way out of physical clutter 

    Photo by Ian Dooley on Unsplash 

1. Invest in versatile furniture pieces

Consider investing in this type of furniture and storage solution for a clutter-free space. It’s best to opt for the budget-friendly options.

2. Design a system

Designing a structure or system can go a long way to overcome clutter. Each item should have a designated place. Ensure that you return items to their rightful places. This approach will help you save time and stress. Encourage young children and visitors to rely on these systems too.

With time, they will get familiar with them.

3. Label your belongings

Look at your storage space, especially where you keep old stuff. Bring out two bags and label them useful and useless, respectively. Put all the items that can longer serve you or anyone else any purpose in the useless section. Consider whether such items can be recycled before disposing of them. 

The next step is to put the items that are still okay in the useful compartment. Divide them into different sections. For instance, you can continue using some, while the rest can be sold, given out, or donated to charity. 

Got any strategies for combating clutter in your home? Share them with us in the comments.