Being in the Moment:
Organizing Mindfully

In the 1970s, a television show called “The Odd Couple” depicted two main characters, Oscar and Felix, with diametrically opposed personalities. Their cohabitation, though fraught with challenges, ultimately led to personal growth and a better living situation than if they had been alone. Similarly, today’s odd couple, clutter and mindfulness, seem as opposed as Oscar and Felix, yet they too have the potential for a symbiotic relationship.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is experiencing the world with presence, intention, and awareness. It involves being fully present, aware of what is happening both internally and externally, and engaging in each moment without judgment or overwhelm.

As distractions like social media proliferate, the value of mindfulness—living with awareness and intention—becomes increasingly apparent.

How Does Clutter Affect Your Ability to Be Mindful?

Clutter can significantly impact one’s ability to be mindful. Studies show that disorganized environments can increase feelings of frustration and reduce one’s sense of control. This, in turn, hampers the ability to focus and be present in the moment. However, organizing and bringing order to your physical space can mirror and enhance mental clarity.

Organizing Mindfully: What Does This Mean?

Organizing mindfully means applying a focused, intentional approach to decluttering. It involves examining each item in the present moment and deciding its fate based on current utility and emotion.

This approach helps to effectively and lastingly declutter, allowing you to surround yourself with items that you need and love.

Keeping It Organized: Infusing Mindfulness into Everyday Life

Once you’ve decluttered, infusing mindfulness into your routine helps maintain organization. This includes routine tasks like putting away laundry or clearing the kitchen counter. Mindfulness teaches us that each moment, even the mundane, deserves attention and presence.

Clutter and mindfulness, much like Oscar and Felix, can lead to a mutually beneficial relationship. By embracing mindfulness in your organizing efforts, you not only declutter your space but also pave the way for a more intentional and aware lifestyle.

Just as Oscar and Felix learned to thrive together, so can you, with clutter and mindfulness working in tandem to create a harmonious, organized living space.