4 Healthy Reasons to Tackle Clutter

Some people thrive in a bit of chaos. Others find it difficult or impossible to relax in the midst of disorganization (or what looks like it).

Whether your organizational style is neat and tidy or controlled chaos, decluttering—getting rid of things you don’t need, use or want—can benefit your health.

If you’ve been contemplating reorganizing a particular area, a room or your whole home, here are four reasons why you may want to start decluttering today.

1. Make space for something new.

Garages, sheds, basements and attics all tend to be places that collect “stuff.” Much of it might be things you haven’t looked at in years and neither need nor want to hold onto.

Clearing those areas out opens up a world of possibilities—for hobbies, more living space, a fun hangout for you, family or friends—the potential is endless.

You might even make room for creative opportunities. A bright garage or attic could make an ideal studio for painting, pottery, crafting, yoga, dance or practicing an instrument. Making room in a closet means more space for art supplies, fabric and other hobbies.

If you struggle with knowing what to keep, consider how it makes you feel. Does a certain item bring you pleasure, recall a happy memory or make your life easier or more meaningful? If not… it may be time to let it go.

2. Enjoy your treasures even more.

How often have you dug through boxes and found treasures you didn’t remember you had?

Rediscovering those forgotten treasures can give you motivation to get started. And clearing out clutter helps you enjoy what you keep even more.

You might find forgotten photographs, paintings or keepsakes you’ll now have room to display. You may reclaim family heirlooms or schoolwork from your kids’ growing-up years for a lovely walk down memory lane. Or you’ll find items you thought you’d lost that you can use again.

3. Clear your mind.

When you look around your home do you feel rested and relaxed or a little stressed?

Clutter can be very visually distracting and can make it difficult for us to destress and enjoy our home as the peaceful retreat and sanctuary it should be.

When it comes to clutter, clearing physical space means clearing mental space.

Getting rid of clutter can help you feel more peaceful and relaxed, leaving more energy for fun.

4. Make some money or make a donation.

You may have many items around your home that aren’t needed or wanted anymore, but are still useful, beautiful or valuable.

Rather than holding on to them, consider selling or donating your extra items.

Many estate sales services will come to your home to pick up items, sell them and return the cash (minus a cut).

If you’re feeling really motivated, sell your extra things online or on consignment at a secondhand store.

Finally, many nonprofit organizations will accept donations of everything from household goods to clothing and furniture—some will even pick up.

Whether you sell or donate, you’ll feel good knowing your useful and valuable items are being given new life in other homes.

Tell us: Have you decluttered your home this year—or are you looking to start? Have you noticed a difference in how you feel before and after getting rid of extra stuff?