Messy Room, Messy Mind: How Your Space Reflects Your Mindset
If you told me a couple of years ago that I would be investing in bed sheets and a plant mom of seven, I would’ve told you that you don’t know me at all.
Throughout high school and beginning years of college, my room would often be a mess. Surely, that reflected how I felt - an absolute mess.
I was a very negative person growing up. And it wasn’t really about the world around me, but rather within myself. I thought that it was better not to exist because that way I wouldn’t have to prove myself to anyone and they wouldn’t be disappointed with me.
Messy Room, Messy Mind.
My room wasn’t a place I wanted to be in because I was so overwhelmed with the amount of things I had. I would walk in seeing an unmade bed, a cluttered desk, and “the chair,” piled high with clothes. I didn’t want to be there. I would rather be out with friends, avoiding my room and problems. Because once I got home, I would be alone again in my physical mess. But also alone in my mental mess.
Like my room, my mind was cluttered with the negative thoughts and stress I was holding on to. I owned too many things and had nowhere to put them. I struggled to overcome negative thoughts and allowed them to accumulate.
I wasn’t okay. And my environment only made things worse.
Less is more.
I was the type of person that held onto everything just in case I needed it. This included an algebra notebook and clothes I haven’t worn in years. Like, when am I ever gonna need to use y= mx + b ever again???
“ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
John 14:27 (ESV)
When we hold on to things we don’t need, it’s hard to be at peace. We’re constantly reminded of them and we carry the burden of those things. God wants us to reach out for help because He wants to be there for us. What heavy baggage are you carrying right now? Literally and in your mind.
It can be hard to humble ourselves and submit things to our Father, especially when we’ve allowed ourselves to be consumed by them. But the peace He gives lightens our burdens. So, we must decrease to have Him increase in our lives. Having more of Christ helps prevent the enemy from having a hold on us.
I’ve always tried to do my best to “let go and let God.” If I could do that with the negative thoughts that clouded my mind, I should be able to let go of the material things I no longer needed.
See ya later, algebra notebook!!
Tips for Decluttering and Creating a Space for You!
1. Does it Bring You Joy?
Honestly, I haven’t watched Marie Kondo, but she’s definitely onto something! Clear out your closet/drawer and start sorting out piles of what you really need and use, things you can donate, and what to throw out. Yes, it’s okay to throw away that marathon shirt you got as a freebie.
2. Everything has a Place.
Organize things in your space in a way that makes sense and is convenient for you. Like, a hook for your keys right before you head out the door.
3. Don’t Let the Mess get Bigger.
Clean as you go so that you don’t have to worry about it later. I used to spend an ENTIRE day cleaning my room, when I could’ve taken a few minutes putting things away after being used.
4. Find Your Aesthetic.
Your space is going to be a lot more peaceful and enjoyable if you like how it looks. I am all for investing in your space, but that doesn’t necessarily mean splurging on everything. Try going to thrift shops or try out some DIY projects! Pinterest is a great place to find some inspiration!
5. PLANTS!!!
Y’all probably saw this coming, but plants really do liven up your space. They’re cute, teach you some life lessons, and keep your air clean! Some beginner plants I would recommend: Pothos, Snake plants, Zz plants, and string succulents!
Once I started to let God increase in my life, I began to feel more at peace with myself and it reflected in my environment. This not only applies to my room, but to the people I surround myself with and how I choose to spend my time.
I went through many rough patches in my life that really made me want to give up on life. I pray that if you are experiencing episodes or seasons of depression and/or anxiety, that you reach out to the Lord, along with your trusted friends/family, and even professional help if possible.
I hope you all can hold onto is being kinder and more patient with yourself. We have 24 hours in a day for a reason and it’s okay if you can’t check off every worry off your list. Matthew 6:34 says “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Clearing your space and your thoughts won’t happen overnight, but what’s important is taking the first step towards doing so. Whether it be cleaning up a small drawer or writing your thoughts down in your journal. You got this!
Praying for and loving you always,
Angeli <3