The happiest people tend to share one everyday habit that begins inside the home yet extends into nearly every part of life, including focus, stress levels, and even job performance.
That habit is keeping a tidy, organized space. Psychologists like Danielle Roeske, Ph.D. point to a strong link between order in the home, lower stress, and higher life satisfaction. Here, we’ll look at what science says about this connection and how you can start building the habit without turning it into a chore.
How the order at home can impact your happiness
Our surroundings shape the way we feel and function. When clutter builds up, so does mental noise. Catherine Roster, a researcher who studies clutter and well-being, found that disorganized spaces reduce feelings of security and happiness. People report more stress, procrastination, and even lower self-esteem when their environment feels chaotic.
Order creates the opposite effect. According to Danielle Roeske, when there is order and structure in our outer environment, it can help us feel more capable of managing inner emotional states. Simply making the bed, clearing the kitchen, or setting items in their place can ease the overload. It provides a sense of control that calms the nervous system and supports focus.
Science also shows that clutter doesn’t just affect mood—it disrupts how the brain works. Research from Princeton’s Neuroscience Institute found that too many visual elements compete for attention and limit cognitive processing. A clear desk allows the mind to zero in on tasks, boosting concentration and productivity. In workplaces and home offices, this can translate directly into improved performance.
How to make it a habit
Knowing the benefits is one thing. Putting them into practice daily is another. The good news is that creating order doesn’t require hours of cleaning or a perfectly minimalist home. It’s about small, repeatable habits that reduce clutter and create a sense of calm. Here are simple ways to build the routine:
- Follow the two-minute rule: If something takes less than two minutes—like hanging a jacket or rinsing a cup—do it immediately instead of putting it off.
- Use the Power Hour method: Dedicate one focused hour each week to quick household resets. Tidy, wipe surfaces, and put things back in place. The short burst keeps clutter from spiraling.
- Start with visible spots: Kitchens, living rooms, and desks are high-traffic areas where disorder is most noticeable. Tackling these spaces first creates an immediate sense of relief.
- Create “homes” for items: Give keys and electronics a consistent place. This reduces the frustration of searching and builds automatic habits.
- Make the bed daily: A small ritual with outsized effects. Studies show it sets a tone of accomplishment and contributes to a calmer evening routine.
Keeping order is about creating enough structure so that your environment supports your mood and work rather than drains it. Even a few minutes of tidying each day can lower stress, sharpen focus, and help you feel more at ease. Sometimes, happiness can start with something as simple as keeping your home in order.