Time to Clear the Clutter -- In More Ways Than One
I think it's safe to say that most of us understand the value of clearing clutter. Many folks have particular rituals and specific dates or times that are devoted to this exact task. Sometimes it looks like weekly cleaning; sometimes, it's the annual purge for an upcoming rummage sale. At other times it's the seasonal closet-clearing that allows for donations to various charities and thrift shops. In all cases, it's about clearing the space, getting rid of what isn't working or needed, and making room for whatever is next.
Generally speaking, when one talks of clearing clutter, the focus is on indoor spaces like shelves, surfaces, rooms, or closets. Sometimes, the clutter-clearing extends to outdoor spaces: the gardens, the shed, community parks, vehicles. Whether indoors or outdoors, the focus is on physical objects and spaces.
Here's the thing: when it comes to clearing clutter, there's more to it than the physical. Clutter is just as liable to accumulate -- and need to be cleared -- in your mental space. In fact, there is scientific evidence that points to the fact that the physical and the mental are interconnected. In light of this, it's not enough to simply clear one or the other; you've got to do both.
The clearing of physical clutter is comparatively simple; you see the clutter/mess/pile-up -- whatever you want to call it -- and you move it in some way to organize and make space. Sometimes, it's as simple as putting things away. Sometimes it's about throwing things out. Always, it's about making space.
For some, the clearing of mental clutter feels a little more challenging, but it doesn't need to be. Here are a couple of strategies that may be helpful:
Begin with the physical; I know, this seems weird. As I said before, however, there's evidence that our physical and mental spaces actually reflect one another. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed, taking time to clear some space in the physical world around you can actually help clear your mind.
Journal; this doesn't need to be formal or publication-worthy. In fact, jotting down bullet points of whatever is occupying space in your brain can be remarkably liberating.
Move. Whether you're dancing, going for a walk, pumping iron or doing yoga, movement works to shift energy physically, which can in turn shift energy mentally.
Create. I don't care that you're not a virtuoso or that you failed art in grade school; letting yourself get creative is another way to shift the energy in your mental space. So, bake a batch of muffins, try a new recipe, splash some paint on canvas or get out some sidewalk chalk and connect with your inner child. Again, using another part of your brain can ease the tension or sense of clutter that might be weighing on you.
When it comes to clearing clutter, if you're having a hard time getting started, remember to start small -- and start anywhere. You don't need to reorganize your whole house -- starting with a corner of your office will suffice. You don't need to write an entire journal entry about your whole week -- focus on what's on your mind NOW. A collection of small actions or steps will create a much bigger impact than you can imagine.
Bottom-line: clearing clutter can be a helpful strategy for getting unstuck. But don't just make it about the space around you; make sure you focus on the internal space as well. If you can't decide where to start, pick one area and go from there. Ultimately, it doesn't matter where you start, it only matters that you do.