Time to get REAL about Your Clutter!
How much clutter is too much? It’s a question without a “one-size-fits-all” answer. Each person’s tolerance for clutter varies, and what feels vibrant and energetic to one individual might feel overwhelming to another.
When clients ask how much is too much, they’re often seeking a benchmark to measure their own space. While I can’t provide specific numbers like “x number of pants” or “y number of coffee mugs,” I use a helpful acronym to assist them in evaluating their situation: REAL. This stands for Relationships, Expense, Attachment, and Livability. So, are you ready to get REAL about YOUR clutter?
Relationships – Consider if the clutter is impacting your relationships at home. If the people you live with are uncomfortable or unhappy due to the clutter, it’s a sign that a reduction may be necessary out of respect for shared spaces. If the clutter prevents your cohabitants from inviting friends over, or if it inhibits your ability to host gatherings, then it’s time to reassess. The effect of your clutter on your social life and interpersonal connections should be a key factor in determining whether you have too much.
Expense – Are you constantly buying or rebuying items for your home but find yourself short on funds for things that could significantly improve your life? I’ve had clients with thousands of dollars worth of possessions who wished they could travel, only to realize their funds were drained by the bits and pieces of clutter around them. If this situation sounds familiar, it’s time to take a step back, assess your spending, and see if your financial priorities align with your possessions.
Attachment – Many clients struggle to part with items as they have personal stories or emotional connections tied to everything in their home. For example, they might hold onto a gift from 30 years ago even though it no longer sparks joy or serves a purpose, or they keep multiple kitchen gadgets that only serve one function because they might need them someday. If you find yourself holding onto things out of obligation or fear of future use, you’re likely dealing with too much clutter.
Livability – This is a crucial factor! If your rooms are not being used for their intended purposes, it’s a strong indication that you need to declutter. Rooms in homes are designed to enhance our lives and serve specific functions, but when clutter obstructs these functions, it’s time for an evaluation. I’ve seen situations where beds become storage areas instead of places for rest, or dining rooms overflow with kitchen items, making it impossible to use the space as intended. If your belongings are spilling out of their designated rooms, it’s a clear sign that you need to take action and make some changes.
Everyone has their own comfort level when it comes to the amount of stuff in a space. Some people thrive in environments that are vibrant, eclectic, and visually stimulating, while others need clear surfaces, light colors, and minimal items to feel at peace. This is why there’s no universal standard for how much clutter is too much. However, if your belongings are interfering with your ability to live comfortably, it’s time to take control and make changes. If your possessions are dictating how you live, it’s crucial to address the issue.
The first step I take with clients is to help them envision their ideal spaces. I ask them to find images of environments that resonate with them and discuss why they chose those images. Common feedback includes comments like, “I love how airy and light this bedroom looks” or “I’d love to have the clear countertops in this kitchen.” When we delve deeper, it often comes down to a feeling of discomfort in their current space, which is a real problem. A home should feel like a warm, cozy hug, enhancing your sense of self. If a space feels off or less than ideal, it’s worth questioning whether all the clutter is worth that discomfort. More often than not, it isn’t. I use these insights to help clients with the joy-checking process to jump-start discarding or when they are stuck and I need them to remember the vision and long-term goal. To achieve a less cluttered, more ideal space, you need to actively reduce the clutter. Simply holding on to everything won’t bring you closer to your vision.
If you’re still unsure whether you should declutter and organize your space, consider these questions:
Do you feel anxious when someone wants to visit before you’ve had a chance to clean up and hide your clutter?
Are you frequently searching for items you know you own, only to find them when you’re looking for something else?
Do you panic when someone opens a cupboard, drawer, or closet because you’re embarrassed by its condition?
Do you buy organizing products that don’t seem to make any difference?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with clutter and its daily effects because they don’t know how to overcome it or have simply accepted it as a permanent part of their lives. But it doesn’t have to be this way!
Working with a professional organizer might require an investment of time and money, but imagine the benefits: being excited and proud to host guests on short notice, no longer wasting time and energy searching for items, being able to open any door without embarrassment, and finally achieving true organization rather than just accumulating expensive containers.
If you’re ready to embrace a simpler, more organized, and intentional lifestyle, give me a call. Let’s discuss how my services can help you achieve your goals!