In my pursuit to shed those stubborn extra pounds, I've often found myself fixating solely on diet and exercise. However, in my journey, I stumbled upon a lesser-known but powerful weapon against weight gain: organization. As I delved deeper into this concept, consulting with organizational experts and psychologists alike, I unearthed a wealth of insights on how tidying up our surroundings can profoundly impact our ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Renowned psychologists echo what I've discovered firsthand: clutter doesn't just clutter our physical space; it weighs heavily on our mental state as well. Dr. Lisa Damour, a respected authority in psychology, emphasizes the psychological toll of disorganization, which can hinder our efforts to adopt healthier habits. I found study after study that found that “stressful and chaotic food environments” influence people to reach for high-calorie snacks. With this in mind, I embarked on a quest to understand how decluttering could serve as a supportive force in my self-care and weight loss journey.
Armed with some expert advice and a newfound understanding of the connection between our environment and our behaviors, I set out to organize my living space with care and intentionality. Through trial and error, I uncovered some transformative steps of decluttering, witnessing firsthand how a tidy and orderly home, office, kitchen, bedroom and environment can help set us up for healthier choices and a more balanced lifestyle.
Organizing Your Pantry: A Recipe for Success
Imagine this: you open your pantry doors, and instead of chaos, you're greeted by a sight of serenity—neatly arranged shelves adorned with labeled jars, colorful fruits, and fresh vegetables. It's a vision that not only appeals to the eyes but also sets the stage for healthier eating habits and you can see some photos below from Kristina, the plant based health influencer I have followed for years, @FullyRawKristina's fridge to be inspired by. By organizing your pantry, you're not just tidying up; you're creating a supportive environment that fosters nutritious choices and makes meal preparation a joy rather than a chore.
Celebrity organizer Marie Kondo emphasizes the importance of a clutter-free kitchen, stating, "A tidy pantry sparks joy and inspires mindful eating habits." By decluttering your pantry and surrounding yourself with nourishing options, you set yourself up for success on your weight loss journey. But how do you achieve this paradise pantry? Let's break it down into actionable steps:
Cleaning Out Your Closet: Dress for Success
Cleaning out your closet isn't just about creating physical space—it's about cultivating a wardrobe that empowers and uplifts you. As you sift through your clothing collection, consider the emotional connection you have with each piece and how it influences your mindset. Keeping items that make you feel confident and comfortable while letting go of those that no longer serve you can have a profound impact on your daily outlook and you're more likely to opt for healthier options. Whether it's slipping into your favorite workout gear or donning a well-fitted outfit, the right clothing can boost your motivation to make better nutritious choices.
Psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour notes, "Our clothing choices can influence our mood and behavior. Wearing outfits that make us feel good about ourselves can positively impact our lifestyle choices, including our dietary habits." She highlights the link between clothing choices and mood, emphasizing the importance of wearing outfits that evoke positive emotions. When you surround yourself with clothing that makes you feel good, you're more likely to approach each day with enthusiasm and vitality. This extends to your dietary habits, as feeling confident in your appearance can inspire you to make healthier food choices that align with your well-being goals.
As you declutter your closet, focus on curating a selection of outfits that resonate with your personal style and reflect your aspirations. Consider donating gently worn items to organizations like Dress for Success, which empower individuals through professional attire. By dressing for success and embracing clothing that embodies your unique identity, you not only enhance your outward appearance but also foster a sense of inner confidence and self-assurance.
Finding a Proper Place for Things: Setting the Stage for Success
Finding a proper place for things goes beyond mere tidiness; it's a cornerstone of setting the stage for success in your organization journey. Assigning specific locations for your workout gear, meal prep tools, and wellness essentials not only promotes orderliness but also fosters consistency and adherence to your fitness routine.
To kickstart your organization journey, begin by conducting a thorough inventory of your belongings and identifying frequently used items. You can get inspo ideas and be inspired by Kris Jenner's stylishly addictive shoe closet, Kim Kardashian's luxurious minimalistic closet, Kylie Jenner's dreamy purse and shoe closet, Kendall Jenner's angelic white closet and Khloé Kardashian's elegant closet. Allocate dedicated spaces for these items within easy reach, ensuring they are accessible when needed. For example, designate a specific drawer or shelf in your kitchen for storing healthy snacks and meal prep ingredients, making it convenient to fuel your body with nutritious options. Marie Kondo recommends incorporating visual cues to reinforce your organization system. Utilize clear storage containers or labeled bins to keep items visible and easily identifiable. This not only streamlines the retrieval process but also serves as a visual reminder to prioritize your health and wellness goals.
Consider the flow of your daily routine when arranging your living space. Position your workout gear in a prominent location, such as near your bedroom or home gym, to encourage regular exercise. Likewise, store wellness essentials like vitamins and supplements in a designated area of your pantry or bathroom cabinet to streamline your wellness regimen. By implementing these practical tips and action items, you can create an organized environment that supports your health and well-being. Remember, a clutter-free space not only promotes clarity of mind but also serves as a catalyst for achieving your fitness and wellness goals.
Unlocking Organizational Success: Strategies and Insights
When it comes to achieving a clutter-free lifestyle and unlocking the potential for success, understanding the various organizing styles can be illuminating. These styles, including visual, chronological, spatial, and intuitive, offer unique approaches to managing clutter and maintaining order in your living space. Whether you're drawn to the simplicity of keeping items in sight or prefer arranging belongings based on spatial logic, recognizing your organizing style can guide your decluttering efforts and help you create a personalized system that works for you. Starting your organization journey doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Start by setting clear goals and priorities, then break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Begin decluttering by tackling one area at a time, sorting items into categories, and ruthlessly discarding anything you no longer need or use. Invest in storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and labels to keep belongings organized and easily accessible. Develop daily habits and routines to maintain order, and don't hesitate to seek support from friends or family members along the way.
Organizing Your Schedule for Healthy Activities: Plan for Progress
A well-structured schedule is key to incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine. By proactively planning workouts, meal times, and self-care activities, you prioritize your health and commit to consistent action. Experts recommend scheduling exercise sessions and meal prep sessions in advance, treating them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.
My longtime friend, Dr. Halland Chen is a longevity doctor and cellular specialist that always recommends journaling and planning one's day to help declutter our minds and know what are our priorities we need to check off our to-do lists. He personally practices journaling, meditating and shares how he is able to declutter some of his client's environments and help guide them to practice more mindfulness in their self care routines. You can follow his advice about mental health, wellness tips and more on his social media pages.
Fitness coach Jillian Michaels advocates for strategic scheduling, stating, "Planning your workouts and meals ahead of time sets you up for success. Treat your health commitments with the same level of importance as any other appointment." By integrating healthy activities into your schedule and adhering to them diligently, you cultivate a sense of accountability and momentum towards your weight loss goals.
Adding an Extra Layer: A Guide to Donating Almost Anything Lying Around Your House
In the pursuit to declutter and optimize your living environment for improved health and well-being, it's common to come across an array of items that have outlived their usefulness. Whether it's old clothing taking up valuable closet space, household furniture that no longer fits your aesthetic, or electronics gathering dust in forgotten corners, these items can hinder rather than enhance your daily life. However, by recognizing the potential for these items to find new homes through donation, you can not only free up space in your home but also contribute to the well-being of others in need. Empowering yourself to declutter with purpose and intentionality as you set out towards a healthier lifestyle where you can accomplish much more is a step forward you should celebrate.
Priority Spaces: What to Tackle First
When diving into the task of decluttering your home, it's crucial to identify the key areas that will yield the most significant impact from your efforts. Seasoned professional organizers emphasize the importance of honing in on specific spaces that see frequent use and are prone to accumulating clutter. Experts advocate for a pragmatic approach, urging individuals to direct their attention towards spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bedroom. These are the heartbeats of our daily life, where clutter tends to accumulate rapidly and can disrupt the flow of our routines. By prioritizing these areas, we can unlock the transformative power of organization and immediately experience the benefits of a more streamlined living environment.
Focusing on these high-traffic zones not only enhances functionality but also cultivates a sense of harmony and balance within the home. It's about creating spaces that not only look tidy but also feel inviting and conducive to well-being. This down-to-earth approach to decluttering empowers individuals to reclaim control over their surroundings and embrace a lifestyle marked by simplicity and intentionality. In essence, by zeroing in on the spaces that matter most in our day-to-day lives, we can embark on a journey towards a more organized, serene, and fulfilling living environment.
The Pantry and Fridge: According to professional organizer Shantae Duckworth, prioritizing the pantry and refrigerator is crucial due to their daily use and tendency to accumulate neglected items. These spaces are relatively easy to declutter compared to sentimental items, as expired or unwanted food can be quickly discarded or donated. Depending on what cooking pans you like, some of my friends have told me they love their caraway cookware sets which you can see here or you may like a cast iron skillet or glass cookware. Whatever pans you have in your kitchen, could always look better when you help add an organizer which you can find one here to help separate them so they don't fall out when you open your cabinet or drawer. Duckworth emphasizes the importance of assessing existing items and donating excess food to local food banks to minimize waste.
Freezer and Ice drawer: Why not have some fun with your freezer? Why not buy some fun ice molds and freeze different shapes and flavors with your favorite fruit juice, drink, edible flower, herb or chopped fruit piece, or alcoholic beverage? Experts like Martha Stewart, influencers like Kami Larae and others, have fun with their ice drawers. If you are looking for a fun ice mold your guests will love you can click here.
Bathroom Vanities: Another high-priority area identified by experts is bathroom vanities, which often harbor expired or unused products. By decluttering and organizing bathroom essentials, such as skincare products and medications, individuals can streamline their daily routines and ensure easy access to necessary items. Grouping similar items together facilitates efficient use and reduces clutter in this frequently utilized space.
Your Bedroom: Professional organizer Lindsey Mahanna underscores the significance of decluttering the bedroom, emphasizing its role as a sanctuary for relaxation and rest. A clutter-free bedroom promotes calmness and enhances sleep quality, contributing to overall well-being. Mahanna suggests focusing on visible surfaces like nightstands and addressing clutter buildup to create a tranquil environment conducive to relaxation.
Spaces Causing Stress: It's essential to prioritize decluttering any spaces that cause stress or discomfort. Addressing clutter in these areas can alleviate mental and emotional strain, fostering a sense of clarity and peace. Whether it's a cluttered mudroom or a disorganized living room, tackling stress-inducing spaces first can instill confidence and motivation to continue decluttering throughout the home.
What to Skip: Areas with Lower Priority
While decluttering is undoubtedly beneficial for creating a harmonious living environment, it's crucial to prioritize spaces based on their impact and frequency of use. Professional organizers stress the importance of focusing on areas that have the most significant influence on daily life and well-being, rather than getting bogged down with less essential spaces.
The Garage: Renowned organizers Jennifer Jarrett and Shantae Duckworth in this realsimple.com article strongly advise against prioritizing the garage in the decluttering process. They point out that the garage often becomes a catchall for miscellaneous items, from sports equipment to seasonal decorations. Due to its size and the diverse range of items it houses, decluttering the garage can be a daunting task that requires considerable time and effort. As such, individuals are encouraged to postpone tackling the garage until after addressing more crucial areas within the home.
The Linen Closet: Similarly, professional organizers recommend bypassing the linen closet during the initial stages of decluttering. While a tidy linen closet is undoubtedly desirable, its contents typically consist of items of lower priority and infrequent use. Rather than expending energy on organizing linens and towels, individuals are urged to focus on spaces like the pantry, bathroom, and bedroom, where decluttering efforts are more likely to have a tangible impact on daily life.
In essence, by strategically prioritizing high-impact spaces and deferring attention from areas of lower priority, individuals can maximize the effectiveness of their decluttering endeavors and create living environments that promote health, happiness, and overall well-being.
The Marie Kondo Method: Transforming Spaces and Cultivating Joy
Inspired by the principles outlined in Marie Kondo's bestselling book, "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up," the Marie Kondo method offers a transformative approach to decluttering and organizing possessions. Central to this method is the concept of sparking joy—evaluating each item you own and keeping only those that elicit positive emotions. By following the six rules of tidying up, individuals can systematically declutter their living spaces and create a home environment that reflects their values and aspirations. With a focus on envisioning an ideal lifestyle and discarding before organizing, the Marie Kondo method empowers individuals to cultivate joy, clarity, and harmony in their surroundings.
Celebrities Who Love Organizing and How Organizing Can Reduce Stress
Prioritizing high-impact spaces such as the pantry, bathroom vanities, and bedroom can significantly streamline the decluttering process and elevate overall well-being. Renowned organizing expert Marie Kondo advocates for this approach, emphasizing that a clutter-free environment promotes a sense of peace and harmony in daily life. "When we prioritize decluttering these key areas," Kondo suggests, "we create spaces that support our physical and mental health, allowing us to focus on what truly matters."
Celebrities like the Kardashian sisters have also embraced the transformative power of organization in their homes. Kourtney Kardashian, known for her meticulous approach to decluttering, emphasizes the importance of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. "A well-organized pantry, bathroom, and bedroom not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to a sense of tranquility and balance," says Kardashian. Kim Kardashian loves organizing her kitchen and closet has recently updated it with a minimalist and elegant approach which is captivating. Khloé Kardashian's pantry is a room we all would love to discover delicious snacks in. By following their lead and prioritizing key areas for decluttering, you can cultivate environments that nurture your well-being and promote healthier lifestyle choices.
Addressing stress-inducing areas and consciously choosing to skip spaces of lower priority can amplify the effectiveness of decluttering efforts. It is also backed by scientific research, this 2013 study found that people in orderly rooms chose healthier snacks than those in cluttered environments. Professional organizers stress the importance of identifying and tackling clutter hotspots that contribute to feelings of overwhelm or anxiety. By confronting these areas head-on and implementing strategic organization strategies, individuals can reclaim control over their living spaces and experience a renewed sense of empowerment. By taking the time to organize your body will appreciate the exercise and movement as well as by creating designated places for snacks, foods and your personal items, you will be less likely to want to stress eat or continue mindless eating habits. Ultimately, by focusing on high-impact spaces and adopting a mindful approach to decluttering, individuals can cultivate environments that foster health, happiness, and a sense of balance in your life.
XOXO,
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