Clear your space to clear your mind

I’ve learned the hard way just how much the state of my house directly correlates to my mental state.

Just yesterday I found myself getting frustrated; when trying to get out the door in a rush, nothing was where it should be.

Empty reusable shopping bags had fallen onto the floor, which I was now tripping over in a cupboard trying to reach for something else.

Running into the kitchen, I cracked my shoulder on the door frame dodging my daughter’s toys I hadn’t picked up, finally reaching boiling point as I failed to find an item in my wardrobe because it’s recently begun to resemble the ‘old me’ wardrobe, a state I swore I’d never return to.

Over several months working in small increments, I was relatively happy with the progress I’d made at home.

Several recycling bin days were eagerly awaited as I cleared out cupboards. I reorganised my entire kitchen based on what I use most and where, saving me so much time and effort when cooking and preparing meals.

Everything has the most practical place.

My glasses’ cupboard is above the sink, next to the fridge.

A dedicated ‘tea’ cupboard sits above the kettle.

Everything coffee is in the drawers beneath the coffee machine.

My sourdough making items and bread storage is in a drawer below where the toaster and breadboard sit.

Most frequently used pans and utensils are directly below my cook top and oven trays and baking equipment are by the oven.

The visual clues point to dedicated spaces.

I love myself sick when I open these beautifully organised and maintained cupboards and these highs help to balance the lows such as yesterday’s, inspiring me to level up quickly rather than fall back into bad habits.

It’s here I want to share former monk and renowned wellness coach Jay Shetty’s words that landed with me when I needed them: “I don’t want you to feel shame, because we all struggle with these things, it’s normal.”

It is absolutely crucial to avoid internalising negative feelings associated with disorganisation.

So, Samantha, stay positive — high-fives for small wins.

Today, as I embark on my mess-fixing frenzy to get back on track, here are some tips inspired by tidying expert Marie Kondo.

Four Box Method:

Grab four boxes/bags and label:

1. Keep

2. Donate/Sell

3. Trash/Recycle

4. Relocate

Start small: Begin with one area, like a drawer or a shelf, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You’re not re-organising, just eliminating.

Be ruthless, if it’s not absolutely essential for an item to be where it is, relocate or get rid of it.

Set time limits: Allocate a specific amount of time to declutter, making the task manageable.

It could be two minutes while you’re waiting for water to boil or 20 minutes towards a larger task.

Bite by bite is better than being overwhelmed and not at the very least starting.

Use the ‘Spark Joy’ criterion: Evaluate items based on whether they bring joy or serve a purpose in your life.

Maintain regularly: Schedule regular tidying sessions to prevent clutter from accumulating.

Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method, encourages individuals to keep only those items that “spark joy”.

If it doesn’t serve you, set it free.

Disclaimer: I do not endorse throwing of husbands in the ‘trash/recycle’ bags, please be respectful and use ‘relocate’.

Keep this as a reminder; by creating organised spaces, you can reduce stress, improve focus and enhance overall wellbeing.

Right, I’m off to pick up those stupid bags from the floor and then tackle my wardrobe. What’s frustrating you at the moment?

That corner of your kitchen bench?

Expired food in your fridge?

Or is there something you’ve stepped over one too many times that might only take a couple of minutes to move?

Off you go — set your timer, I’ll race you!

If you’re not already listening to Jay Shetty’s podcast or reading his books, hop to it – I promise you it will change your life.

For more on Jay Shetty, visit jayshetty.me or Marie Kondo, go to konmari.com