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April 20, 2023

Top 5 Ways Clutter Negatively Impacts Your Life

Believe it or not, there is really nothing wrong with a few misplaced items here and there, or even the occasional sock on the floor. In fact, studies have shown that some people, like artists and other creative types, tend to work more efficiently with a bit of disorder in their space. The problem arises when the clutter becomes so overwhelming that it begins to take control of your life. Here are the top 5 ways clutter can negatively impact your life if left unattended.

1) Clutter wastes your time

We might not realise it immediately, but spending time each day looking for our things accumulates to a lot of wasted hours that could have been used for more important tasks. Worst of all, clutter can prevent you from being punctual to work, meetings, classes, and even social gatherings with friends, labeling you as tardy and irresponsible.

2) Clutter can cause injuries

Stepping on your kid’s toys, slipping on dirty clothes scattered on the floor, getting hit on the head with books and boxes overflowing from shelves. Trying to maneuver your way through a messy living space can increase your chances of physical injuries. Even worse are the long-term damages to your lungs caused by accumulated dust, mildew and mould particles you breathe-in that comes with dirty messes.

3) Clutter wastes brain power

When your mind is distracted by messes and long to-do lists, it makes it so much harder for it to focus on more important tasks and projects. For example, studies have shown that students living and working in a cluttered environment have lower grades than their peers who have a habit of tidying up.

4) Clutter gives you stress

Studies have shown that people living in a cluttered environment experience increased levels of stress. The constant worry of messes, disorder and long-term consequences of clutter can increase cortisol levels, keeping one’s body in a constant state of tension and discomfort. Furthermore, for those wanting to improve their mental health through meditation and yoga, a cluttered living space makes it near impossible to put their mind at peace.

5) Clutter can isolate you

People living in cluttered and messy homes tend to have more isolated lives. They feel uncomfortable and embarrassed inviting guests to their home, and tend to hide their messy habits from friends and family out of shame. In extreme cases, the clutter can be so overwhelming that it discourages them from going out and socializing altogether, increasing their chances of developing depression and worsening their social anxiety.

If you believe that your clutter is taking over your day-to-day life, the best (and hardest) solution would be to let some of it go. It can be quite an emotional task for some and we, at Montreal Mini-Storage, would be happy to help you in any way we can. We understand better than any industry how important your belongings are to you and your family. By renting a storage unit, you can not only remove much of the clutter from your home, but you can also take as much time as you need to say goodbye to the things that once brought you happiness.