What Is Clutter—And Why Does It Affect Us So Deeply?
“Clutter is an overabundance of possessions that collectively create chaotic and disorderly living spaces.” — Joseph Ferrari
Ever walked into a cluttered room and felt instantly on edge? That’s not just in your head—it’s science. Clutter has a way of creeping into our mental and emotional space, stirring up frustration, overwhelm, sadness, and even anxiety. When we’re surrounded by disorder, our brain goes into overdrive, overstimulated by the sheer amount of visual noise. It becomes harder to concentrate, relax, or even hold a conversation.
And here’s the kicker: when we exist in a cluttered space for too long, our body continuously releases cortisol—the stress hormone linked to the fight-or-flight response. Over time, this heightened state of tension can take a real toll, leaving us feeling perpetually on edge. If every little thing is setting you off lately, your environment might be playing a bigger role than you realize.
Cluttered Desk
The Deeper Layers of Clutter
But clutter isn’t just about stuff. Sometimes, it’s about what that stuff represents.
Ever wondered why a messy space makes you feel particularly anxious? Maybe it triggers memories from childhood—whether it was growing up in a chaotic home where there was no sense of order or, on the opposite end, a rigidly controlled space where perfection was the expectation. When our living environment didn’t feel safe, comfortable, or reflective of our authentic selves, we carry those feelings into adulthood, often without realizing it.
Glennon Doyle’s book Untamed introduced me to one of my favorite Maya Angelou quotes:
"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."
The more we understand about why we function the way we do, the more intentional we can be about creating spaces that support us. Personally, I know my brain can’t focus in a cluttered environment. Before I can sit down to write, I need a sense of order—maybe that’s my Virgo tendencies, my type-A approach to cleanliness, or just the way my creativity works. Either way, I honor that need instead of fighting against it.
Clutter Free Bookshelf
How Does Your Space Affect You?
If clutter impacts us so profoundly, why do we rarely pause to ask:
Does my space reflect my needs, values, and beliefs?
Am I setting boundaries with others when it comes to shared spaces?
Do I actually know what kind of environment helps me feel grounded and at ease?
From childhood expectations to societal norms, we’re constantly told how a space should look or function. But what if we started designing our spaces for us—not for what others expect? The first step is tuning in, noticing what helps or hinders us, and creating an environment that truly supports our well-being.
So, what’s your relationship with clutter? And more importantly—how do you want to feel in your space?
