THERE are three things I don’t like waking up to: the honking of jeepneys, the sound of a mocking alarm clock and a sink full of dishes. Since jeepneys are given noisemakers, and an alarm clock has to mock me incessantly to get out of bed, let me talk about clutter. That’s something I can avoid waking up to.

Clutter is a really fast way to stress yourself out. Try searching for that proposal stuck in between those piles of documents while your boss stands behind you, tapping her foot impatiently. Uh-oh! Organizing your things can go a long way in helping you avoid unnecessary stress. So one way to de-stress is simply to organize that clutter.

The more clutter there is, the more we are reminded of the things we still have to do. So streamline those things, and you’ll feel and think more clearly too.

There is a line that goes “A messy desk is a sign of a creative mind.” Perhaps the many sources of inspiration all over your desk can trigger ideas, can push one to be creative. Perhaps. I do believe though that putting everything in its place can help more greatly in having a smoother, cleaner flow of thinking.

Upon coming home from work for example, wouldn’t it be so calming if you open the door to an organized living room, instead of one with mismatched shoes and slippers all over? The headache that you thought had disappeared after that long meeting suddenly comes rushing back. Deal with this clutter. A basket by the door can be a home for shoes and slippers. An organized home is very welcoming, especially after a long work day.

Piles of paper on your desk? Sort your documents, stuff them in the envelopes, label. You can reach for your documents much easily after that.

As for those dishes of mine, wouldn’t it be so much better if I wash them and put them back in the dish racks before going to bed? This way I wake up to a squeaky clean kitchen with a big smile instead of a furrowed brow.

Organize your things and do less with stress that all that clutter brings. It’s easier than it sounds. Get on it!