When we focus too much on weight loss, we tend to overemphasize exercise and dieting without paying any attention to the reasons we struggle to lose weight to begin with.
This means we don’t focus on the daily habits that prevent us from having time, energy and motivation to sustain a healthy lifestyle.
After working with hundreds of individuals over the years, I’ve seen first-hand that those who live a simple, more organized life have more long-term success in reaching and maintaining their health and fitness goals.
Double-Up
Are there any items or furnishings that could serve multiple purposes in your home?
For example: Lidded multi-colored raffia baskets could be used as great storage items, as well as adding a touch of fun color. With a few baskets in different sizes, could one store toys, and the other be used as plant pot cover? Remove the lid, and this could become a low basket on a dining table. Place the lid back on top, and you have a stylish footstool.
When organizing your home, items with multiple uses will save space, streamline décor and keep clutter to a minimum.
Set Goals and Priorities
When you have goals, you are less prone to clutter of the mind and existing clutter is easier to eliminate.
1. Write down all your goals.
2. Now separate them into long term goals, mid-term goals and short-term goals.
3. Find out a way to incorporate your goals into your daily life.Let’s assume one of your goals is to write a book. You can incorporate this into your daily to-do list. Perhaps you commit to writing 1000 words each day with your morning coffee.
Make sure to set realistic goals. If you have a weight loss goal and can only lose 2 pounds in a month, don’t set a goal to lose 8 pounds in a month. This will only add more clutter to your mind.
Get Creative
Think outside the box and get as creative as you can with your storage solutions. Decluttering is about so much more than tidying; it helps you create a serene, visually delightful space.
Take the bathroom for instance. Who says toothbrushes have to go in traditional holders, or towels and toiletries have to be hidden away in cupboards?
Could you make a feature of your towels, neatly wrapped in antique planter, or proudly display make-up brushes in a classic brass julep cup? Whatever your personal style, don’t feel constrained by the “normal” uses for containers. Creating and defining uses for objects is entirely up to you.
Get Rid of The Stuff That Hurts Your Soul
Things like…
Discontentment
Unforgiveness
Bitterness
Envy
Angry Outbursts
Shame
Fear
Worthlessness
HateFinally, you need to think about yourself. It is very important that you are in a good state to declutter your brain. Now and then take time for yourself. There are no rules when it comes to taking time for you. Do whatever you like. Whether it is dancing for a favorite music or reading a book, do what will make you happy.
Do You Need to See Your Stuff to Remember You Have It?
If you are a visual abundance person you’ll want storage solutions that don’t hide everything from sight. You’re more likely to put things back where they belong if you use unstacked containers and transparent materials. This has the added benefit of making objects much easier to find, with less labeling too!
The Effect of Clutter on Your Body
1. Clutter Causes Stress
Too much clutter can cause stress which can cause the body to increase hunger and cravings throughout the day. When we feel more stressed we tend to overeat and sometimes even feel more depressed which can cause a reduction in your activity level.2. Prevents the Ability to Commit To Goals
The visual noise of clutter can impact your ability to create plans and goals you can commit to such as losing weight. Our ability to make time for exercise and healthy eating is diminished by the visual noise of clutter and disorganization.3. Clutter Sucks Up Time
Too much clutter prevents you from having time to exercise or prepare healthy meals. You will have more time, energy and motivation to exercise and prepare healthy meals when your time isn’t being wasted looking for things you need!
Grouping Keeps You Decluttered and Organized
To successfully declutter and organize your home, begin by sorting your items into groups. If you’re working on your kitchen — collate all your spices, pantry items, plates, or cutlery separately. Identify the groups of objects (starting with those you use most often) that need attention. What items could help you store each category in a clear, easily accessible way?