Clutter Busting: Is Clutter Making You Fat?

According to the CDC, “Since the mid-seventies, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased sharply for both adults and children. Data from two NHANES surveys show that among adults aged 20–74 years the prevalence of obesity increased from 15.0% (in the 1976–1980 survey) to 32.9% (in the 2003–2004 survey).” http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/index.htm. Coincidentally in the same time span our homes have gotten much bigger, our families much smaller, and yet we have so much stuff that we have to rent storage units miles away from our homes. The storage facilities were all but unknown in the 1970’s and now they are one of the fastest growing industries because our closets, attics, basements, and garages are completely packed with stuff.

Why do we have too much clutter? Why do we eat so much? The answer can be simple, because we can. But I would suggest that there is more to the problem then what is on the surface. Clutter is often a symptom of loss of control and perfectionism. This may sound a bit contradictory, but it isn’t. Perfectionism can often lead to inability to start a project for fear of not being able to complete it successfully. There are many people that I have worked with who struggled with this problem. Often times those who have serious clutter issues are not lazy, as some would think, rather they are so concerned about de-cluttering the right way that they don’t start. The fear of throwing out something that might be needed someday can paralyze them from getting rid of anything. The battle of the bulge is so similar. So often people will fear they cannot succeed at losing weight and this will keep them from trying (or when they sense failure… they will quit).

So, can clutter make you fat? I can guarantee you that it won’t help the situation. Living an organized simple life will help you achieve your goals. If losing weight is a goal of yours, getting organized can help. Here’s how:

1. Time management –“ I don’t have time to exercise.” A big misconception of organized people is that they have too much time on their hands. The reality is that organized people make more time. 30 minutes 3 times a week can make a huge difference in your waist.

2. Meal planning - “I don’t know what to make for supper.” When you plan ahead your menus you can make sure that you have good healthy food in the refrigerator so you will not be indulging on fast food.

3. Goal planning - “I don’t know how to start.” Just like de-cluttering, you simply need a plan. If you would like to lose 50 pounds, start by creating smaller goals and then tasks to achieve those goals.

Example: (these are just examples, please ask your Dr. for a detailed plan)

Ultimate goal: 50 pounds lost by 2008

Memorial Day goal: loss of 5 pounds

Tasks needed to complete this:

Plan meals with nutritionist

Exercise 3 times a week 30 minutes

Drink 8 glasses water a day

Supervision by Physician

Etc.

4. Stop the blame guilt. This is usually my first advice that I give to those who are starting on their new life to become clutter controlled. You cannot change yesterday…it is done. You cannot create a different upbringing, genetic make-up, and you cannot control choices that you made in the past. However, it is in your complete control to change your future.

5. It is not about perfection. Clutter and food are both used to fill the voids that we feel in ourselves. We see what others have and we compare our reality to that fantasy. Everybody is different and their circumstances are different as well. Aim to do the best you can with what you have been given. That is all anyone should ever expect from themselves.

What is the payoff? Why can’t so many of us just let go? Clutter, much like fat, is insulation to some. Clutter protects from the outside world. You can blame the clutter for lack of friendships because you can’t invite anyone over, without ever having to take the risk of rejection. In addition, clutter keeps you stuck so you don’t have to face future plans. Often times, the payoff of obesity can be appealing as well.

This is the year to take control back. Start small achieving little tasks along the way. Ask for help from those you love and accept help that is offered. Don’t allow the voices in your head to tell you that you are unable to achieve success. Living a life of simplicity and fulfillment cannot be found in the grocery store or mall. It cannot be something that you can purchase or you can eat. It is the knowledge that you are living your life as a reflection of your priorities.

Betsy