Clutter, Clutter Everywhere, How Is One To Think?

By

Nancy Hoback LCSW

Thank you to Nancy Hoback for guest blogging this month.  You can contact Nancy at 

(219) 369-4870
	nancyhoback@hobackcounseling.com
	http://hobackcounseling.com

             We've all seen the sign, “a cluttered desk is the sign of a creative mind.”.  Well, some people do thrive in clutter.    They cannot imagine living a life that involves not having to search for their keys, their phone, or five other things before heading out the door.  But these actives take a lot of energy, both mentally and physically.  And it is always a juggling act. 

            Often people who thrive in the clutter for a time, will, over time, find that they become overwhelmed by the frequent adrenaline-pumped games of hide and seek.  It's not uncommon for the chaos to eventually overwhelm, and for anxiety or depression to ensue. 

            As a clinical social worker, I have seen clients who have had panic attacks because of their clutter.  It takes over, consumes them, and rules their lives.  In the beginning, it seems easier to let things go than to organize.  The longer things go though, the more overwhelming it can seem to get things organized.  For some people, the idea of cleaning their house and managing clutter will send them into tears and panic attacks, and paralysis. 

            Just as the clutter took time to accumulate, developing new habits will take time, and managing the anxiety will also take time.  In the beginning, you may find yourself wanting to continue to hold on to things out of habit, or because you're afraid to let go for fear you will “need it someday.”  You need to begin creating a new habit.  A habit of letting go.  A habit of blessing others with the things you don't really need.  Find a charity you love, and  donate stuff to it.  Or a person just starting out or starting over who truly needs your excess.  But go slowly, listen to your fears, acknowledge them, and reassure yourself that you are doing what is best for you. 

            Talk back to the panic and fear.  But do it gently.  Treat it like a small, frightened child, because the fear is a scared little part inside you.  But stand firm.  You will no longer allow the fear to control you.  You will no longer allow the clutter to fill you life.  Now you choose to take back your life, your home, and  your health.  Clutter can once again become what it truly is, a pile of stuff that needs a home, or needs to go away.  Your home becomes a peaceful oasis, and you now have the energy and space to become the person you are meant to be.