Well-being, which leads to the happiness of individuals, is a fundamental goal for society as a whole. However, there is no magic formula for happiness, I’m sorry to say. In fact, according to a study published in Nature Human Behavior, happiness researchers at the University of British Columbia claimed that the most popular happiness strategies have, at best, little scientifically solid evidence and, in some cases, none at all. We could say that following a series of guidelines and advice can increase our well-being, moving us away from unhappiness more than towards it.
One of the habits that help us on this path to well-being starts at home, but its effectiveness extends beyond that. We are talking about the relationship between order at home and happiness because yes, there is a connection between them.
Keeping order at home, the simple habit that helps us be happier
21% of people feel frustrated by having things at home without a specific place according to a report by IKEA, although the degree of influence that order exercises is different for each person according to Patricia Maguet, a couples psychologist associated with the General Council of Psychology. However, if you organize your home, you will also be organizing your mind according to the study ‘Homes with Psychology’, conducted by the General Council of Psychology, the Psychofoundation, and IKEA. It states that greater order at home is linked to an increase in well-being and happiness, and just tidying up the kitchen daily, organizing, and making the beds is more than enough to achieve it.
Order is directly related to mental health according to Dr. Danielle Roeske. “When there is order and structure in our external environment, it can help us feel more capable of managing some of the states and emotional worlds within,” she states. In other words, our environment can act as a container for our emotional and psychological states, and this study found that disorder was linked to procrastination, feelings of overwhelm, and a lower quality of life.
Feeling in control of our environment can also strengthen our self-esteem and promote overall well-being, as an organized home can create a more relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. According to Catherine Roster, disorder can decrease the sense of well-being, happiness, and the security that a person derives from being in their personal spaces.
It also affects our productivity
Proper order at home can reduce stress. In fact, a chaotic environment can create a feeling of overload and it has been shown that people living in chaotic and disordered environments have a higher cortisol level, that is: more stress.
Productivity is also directly connected to a well-ordered environment. If our office is tidy, concentration improves according to a study by the Princeton Neuroscience Institute which states that having too many elements in our field of vision distracts the brain’s processing capacity. Clearing the clutter allows the brain to focus on one item and task at a time, which increases our productivity. Additionally, a cluttered space can generate stress, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and tension in relationships, according to Peggy Loo, Ph.D., licensed psychologist and director of Manhattan Therapy Collective.
Keeping order at home doesn’t have to be a drama if we follow, for example, the two-minute rule, or if we use the trick to clean the house quickly in an hour with the Power Hour method. You only need a few minutes a day to visually organize the house, reduce your stress, and be happier. It’s that simple.
Photos | Antonino Visalli on Unsplash, Nick Morrison on Unsplash, roam in color on Unsplash
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Future Trends in Well-being and Home Organization
As society increasingly prioritizes mental health and well-being, upcoming trends are poised to merge psychology with home design. Research, such as the recent findings from Nature Human Behavior, emphasizes that fostering a harmonious living space contributes significantly to individual happiness.
The Rise of Minimalism and Decluttering
Minimalism will continue to gain traction as people recognize the psychological benefits of having a clutter-free home. A study conducted by IKEA highlighted that 21% of individuals feel stressed by disorganization. As awareness of mental health rises, individuals will be more inclined to adopt decluttering strategies, leading to a trend of simplified living spaces that promote serenity and productivity.
Digital Tools for Home Organization
The digital revolution will also play a crucial role. Expect to see an influx of apps and tools designed to help individuals maintain an organized home. These applications will not only assist in decluttering but also integrate features that offer emotional well-being tips, significantly enhancing the user experience and engagement.
Holistic Interior Design
Interior design will increasingly embrace a holistic approach. As studies indicate a strong correlation between orderliness and mental well-being, designers will aim to create spaces that foster calmness and promote a sense of control. Using natural materials, strategic color palettes, and well-defined spaces will become fundamental components of future home designs.
Community Engagement and Shared Spaces
Community-driven movements emphasizing shared living spaces will cater to the rising need for social connectivity. These spaces will be designed not just for functionality but also to enhance emotional well-being, thereby promoting strong relationships among residents. The importance of being in a pleasant environment is gaining recognition, leading to innovative designs in communal areas.
Education on the Psychological Impact of Space
Finally, as the link between home organization and mental health gains more public attention, educational initiatives aimed at teaching individuals about the psychological effects of their living environment will emerge. Workshops and online courses that provide strategies for maintaining an organized space while supporting mental wellness will become increasingly popular.