Feeling stuck, drained, and not being able to focus is a common issue. We’ve all been there at least once and it’s very difficult. You try and you try, but the focus just isn’t there so you push through, blame stress, and think you’re lazy and lack motivation. If you live like this long enough, you stop living and all that’s left is survival.
But what if you’re not the problem here? What if it’s your environment? What surrounds you has a bigger impact on your mindset than you realize and, sometimes, the space you’re in can be working against you. If your home is cluttered, it’s no wonder your brain feels messy. If the rooms are dull and blah, of course, you have no motivation. Even your chaotic backyard can stress you out instead of relaxing you.
Luckily, you don’t need to make any drastic changes to feel better. It’s just a matter of a few simple adjustments and you’ll notice you’re energetic and focused almost right away.
Table of Contents
How Your Space Impacts Your Emotional and Mental State
Did you know that studies have shown that clutter increases cortisol, which is the hormone of stress, and makes it harder to focus and process information? If the space around you feels chaotic, your mind follows. Unfortunately, clutter isn’t the only thing that can hold you back; dull spaces can do that, too.
If there’s not enough natural light, if the walls are bland, and if the design is uninspired, you can end up feeling stuck, tired, and even mildly depressed, all from the space you’re in. The colors and textures play a huge role in your mood, but there’s a good chance you don’t even know it.
On the flip side, if you’re surrounded by nature or if you bring elements of nature into your space, it will boost creativity, lower stress, and make you feel better in general. Mind you, this isn’t some new-age mumbo-jumbo, it’s a concept known as biophilic design and it’s the reason why some spaces feel refreshing.
How to Transform Your Environment
Big changes are usually overwhelming, and if you’re already feeling under the weather, it’s not a good idea. What you want is something simple and easy, just to make your mood better.
1. Declutter with Purpose
Clutter might seem like something that’s just visual, but it’s a mental burden, too. When you’re drowning in unnecessary stuff, your brain has to work harder to process all the visual noise, which is stressful and exhausting. This is why minimalism and intentional organization aren’t just about the looks, they actually help you clear your mind.
Don’t just throw things away, though. Keep what you need or want, and stick to a rule – if something doesn’t have a purpose and if it doesn’t bring you joy, there’s no reason to have it around. The “one-touch rule” can also help. When you pick something up, decide right away if you want to keep it, toss it, or donate it.
If the clutter is too much, you don’t have to do it all at once. Set aside 10 minutes every day for tidying up and within a few days, you’ll notice a huge change.
2. Make Your Indoor Space Inspiring
Natural light is key because it helps you feel better and more energetic, so try to let in as much as possible. If your space feels kind of dark, move some furniture around, add a mirror or two, and get a few plants to make the air fresher.
Colors are important, too. Blues and greens are calming, and warm colors (orange, yellow, red, etc.) add energy. You don’t even need to repaint the walls, just add some decor and artwork.
Then, time for the layout. Get a comfortable chair, organize your desk, and make everything you need easy to reach so there’s fewer distractions.
3. Revitalize Your Outdoor Space
Being outside in the fresh air is excellent for relaxing and creativity, but many people don’t even use their backyards because they don’t know how to set it up.
One of the best ways to upgrade your backyard is to add a deck, so look for a custom deck builder. A deck will give you a space dedicated to unwinding, working, or spending time with friends and family.
Add seating to it, fluffy pillows, and soft lighting. Plants are a great addition, too. If you really want to go all out, add a fire pit or a water feature.
Conclusion
Even the smallest change is a step in the right direction. If you’re feeling down and you can’t bring yourself to spend an hour or two tidying up, try to put just a few things away. The next day, put some more things away and maybe wipe down the surfaces in your living room.
Take it one day at a time and, before you know it, your home will feel fresh, clean, and tidy – just like your mind will.
