How Clutter May Be Affecting Your Life (in Ways You Never Expected)

Let’s face it, it is in human nature to hold onto things. It is in our genes, this adaptive response that helped our distant cousins survive when resources would be scarce and the world unpredictable. 

Some experts say that when we collect stuff, our brain reward circuitry gives us a nice kick of dopamine, our body’s natural “feel good” drug. 

Others point out that our attachment to things is hardwired into our mammalian genetics, which starts with our attachment to our mothers and then gets transferred onto objects. Like our world is our giant “blankie”

Whatever the cause, we collect things. While we don’t all go to the dark side of collecting toilet paper rolls and cats, our lives can and do get affected by the things we can’t seem to get rid of.

But our cluttered lives aren’t just an irritation. Our accumulation of things can have deep psychological and physical consequences you may not even realise.

How Cluttered Living Affects Us

Clutter Releases Stress Hormones

When your home is chronically cluttered, you may be facing a silent fight or flight response that can tax your emotional and physical resources.

People who live in a disorganized and cluttered home may suffer from increased stress and anxiety. For example, one study found that women who live in cluttered homes had significantly raised cortisol levels — a stress hormone with several negative effects on the body. 

For example, it can affect our immune response, the way we digest our food, and even put us at risk of heart disease or type 2 diabetes. 

Disorganized Spaces Can Make You Pack On the Pounds

You might not believe this, but living in a cluttered and disorganized living space can make you fat. 

Several clinical studies have found a causal link between clutter and those bad eating choices. One study found that people in a messy room ate twice as many cookies as participants in the clean room. 

Here’s a scary fact: a study published in a psychiatry journal found that people who had chronically cluttered living spaces were 77%more likely to be overweight. 

Chaotic Environments Can Affect Our Relationships

Home clutter can also negatively affect marriages and partnerships. When one partner sees a treasure and the other just sees junk, it can give rise to conflict. Not to mention the increased stress that a disorganized living space can cause. 

It can even affect your parenting. Studies show that parents in cluttered living spaces are less sensitive, more distracted, and discipline their kids more harshly. In turn, this can influence children’s development and mental well-being. 

Too Many Things Can Affect Your Memory and Productivity

Living in a chaos of collected junk can impact your brain. Our brains like order and organization, and when we live in chaos, it can drain our cognitive resources and even reduce our working memory. 

Moreover, a study using MRI and other measurements found that removing clutter improved the subjects’ information processing and increased their productivity. 

What You Can Do to Tackle Clutter

Professional declutterers suggest that you start small and tackle one area at a time. Then use  the four-box method when decluttering a busy space, where you sort your stuff into different categories: 

• Keep
• Donate 
• Trash
• Fix.

Try Layered Storage

Use several types of storage solutions, and mix and match. Instead of just one type of storage system, use shelves, pretty boxes, and cupboards. You can also place these different storage places in a space where they overlap and support each other instead of having multiple storage piles around the house.

Use Vertical Space

Instead of tons of horizontal clutter, try to use your vertical space. Think hanging organizers, tall bookshelves, and stackable containers to free up more of your living space. 

Try Secret Storage Areas

Several multi-functional furniture options can create a hidden storage space without cluttering your lives. Under-bed compartments, hidden ottoman storage, and headboard storage are all great ideas. 

If you have a staircase, it’s a great option to use the under-stair area to stash your things. 

When an Outdoor Storage Shed Is the Best Option

If, despite your best efforts, your home or apartment isn’t big enough to accommodate your stuff, an outside shed might be the way to go. With an outside structure, you can once again streamline your home and de-stress.

What to Consider When Building an Outdoor Shed

Consider Your Climate

Your location will determine the kind of material, location, and design of your outside storage shed. For example, if you live in an area of high heat and humidity, you are going to need to consider proper ventilation and moisture-resistant materials.

If you are from a windy region like the West and the Great Plains, you will need a robust foundation and bracing. 

Budget

When you work out your budget for your outside shed, don’t forget to factor in extras like insulation, electricity, and foundation preparation. Depending on your materials, you should also factor in the long-term maintenance costs. Many great shed building companies offer financing or rent-to-own plans that won’t even affect your credit score.  

DIY or Outsource?

You might be handy with tools, but if you are like me, you could opt for a professional. Most reputable shed constructors will also offer you finance, give you properly engineered construction, and even take care of the headaches of zoning and permits for outbuildings. It’s as simple as Googling the term “storage sheds for sale near me“.

Can You Customize?

Not that you have found a potential home for all the things that are cluttering your life, why not go a step further? You can use your outside shed for more than just storing your junk. You could use it as an arts and craft studio, or your “man cave” if that’s your thing.

If so, you need to consider making the space more livable. Consider light and ventilation, heating if you’re in a cold climate. Ease of access is also something to consider. 

Conclusion

Getting rid of that clutter in your apartment or house won’t just give you more legroom; it can help you both mentally and physically. If you have used the four-box system and honestly find your home STILL has no space, look outside.

If you have the garden space, an outdoor shed can free up the chaos inside your home. Not only that, but it can also increase the value of your property and provide a space for your secret passions and hobbies.