I often look at other people’s picture perfect home in videos, magazine and influencer reels and posts and wonder how they manage to keep it so clean and organized all the time, despite having kids and pets.
You can guess that home organization hasn’t been one of my primary strengths. I hate it when people drop unannounced because my home isn’t spick and span and organized all of the time. I criticize myself when I am unable to keep up with the organization. I end up screaming at my daughter for strewn toys and books.
Likewise, I have a friend with OCD who recently told me that she found it very hard to study for an important exam while the house was messy. She would often leave her studies and get up to clean up the house and put back very thing in its place. However, she would actually end up getting lesser time to study and would start feeling bad towards the end of the day for failing to use her time, a precious resource, mindfully and smartly. Often enough, while fearing others’ ridicule and judgement, we end up being our worst critics.
Beautiful, Messy, Bold Life…Meant to be Lived
But come to think of it, even messes and spills can be beautiful at times…because life itself can be chaotic and messy. Homes are meant to be lived in, living in the true sense of the word, enjoying, relaxing, savoring the comfort. It’s not a place to exist and obsess over how it looks, all the time!
Sure enough! It’s nice to wake up to an empty and sparkling sink and shiny counter tops in the morning. But it’s not worth spending a major part of your day cleaning things up and obsessing over each and every spill and unwashed coffee mug.
A sink full of dishes is not just tasks piling up, but also, it is a testament of a having enough to cook and feed, bellies full and heart filled up to the brim with gratitude. You hate the mess your kids and/or your partner make now. But just imagine a very neat and organized home, without the presence of these individuals! Human presence at times means noise, clutter, chaos.
While people can be gently reminded to clean up after themselves, the constant reminders and criticism can create feelings of anxiety, shame, and stress in children as well as in adults. It can strain the parent-child or marital relationship and create an environment of negativity and tension at home. Children need a supportive and nurturing environment to thrive emotionally and mentally. Likewise, a partners needs a place where they can relax and be themselves.
5 Reasons Why Messy Homes are Beautiful
Messy homes can indeed possess a unique beauty that can be appreciated for several reasons:
Authenticity and Lived-in Feel
A messy home often reflects the authentic and genuine nature of its inhabitants. It shows that real life is taking place within those walls, with its ups and downs, rather than a meticulously staged and sterile environment. This authenticity can create a sense of comfort and relatability.
Creativity and Expression
Messiness can be a sign of creativity and self-expression. It might indicate that the inhabitants of the home are engaged in various artistic or creative pursuits, with materials, tools, and projects scattered about. This vibrant display of creativity can bring an inspiring and visually stimulating atmosphere to the space.
Coziness and Warmth
A messy home can have an inviting and cozy ambiance. Piles of books, scattered blankets, and a bit of clutter can create a sense of comfort and relaxation. It gives the impression that the space is lived in and enjoyed, providing a warm and welcoming environment for both residents and guests.
Eclectic and Personal Style
Messiness can be a reflection of an eclectic and personal sense of style. A home filled with unique and diverse objects, collections, and memorabilia can convey the individuality and personality of the inhabitants. It tells a story of their experiences, interests, and tastes, adding character and charm to the space.
Serendipitous Discoveries
A messy home may hide unexpected treasures and hidden gems. Amidst the disorder, one might stumble upon forgotten items, rediscover old photographs, or encounter intriguing objects that spark curiosity. The element of surprise and the joy of unexpected discoveries can contribute to the appeal and beauty of a messy home.
To Sum Up
It’s important to note that beauty is subjective, and different people have varying preferences and perceptions. While some may appreciate the aesthetic of a messy home, others might prefer a more organized and tidy space. Ultimately, the beauty of a home lies in the eyes of the beholder, and what matters most is that it brings happiness and contentment to its inhabitants.
