Is Clutter Sabotaging Your Weight Loss?

Lifestyle
Jeri Zacarese
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Hi, Coach Jeri here! Did you know that the clutter in your home could be quietly sabotaging your weight loss journey? Let’s talk about how your environment might be holding you back—and how to change it.

Our physical environment plays a powerful role in our overall success—including our ability to lose weight. Clutter can lead to stress, feelings of overwhelm, and even procrastination. I’ve experienced this firsthand. When my father-in-law and mother passed away, we had to sort through decades of accumulated “stuff.” Just thinking about the task made me want to run away!

But here’s the good news: by decluttering and organizing our space, we can actually support our weight loss goals and promote a greater sense of well-being. A messy kitchen or workspace often leads to grabbing quick, unhealthy snacks instead of preparing a nutritious meal.

The Deeper Connection Between Clutter and Control

Clutter and weight have something in common: they both reflect imbalance. A lack of control in one area of life tends to spill over into another. Research shows that clutter increases stress levels, which can trigger hormonal imbalances and lead to overeating. It also contributes to mental and emotional fatigue, making it harder to plan workouts and healthy meals.

And it’s not just physical clutter—our minds can feel cluttered too. Busy schedules, work commitments, poor time management, and negative self-talk all create mental overload. Just think how exhausting it feels to face hundreds of unread emails!

This year, I launched a new monthly decluttering challenge for my members. Each month, they receive a new assignment—starting with the medicine cabinet and moving on to drawers and closets. I love when they share before-and-after pictures! The first thing I always ask when they tell me they’ve completed a challenge is, “How do you feel?” And the answer is always something positive. Freeing up space gives you a sense of accomplishment. No one ever regrets cleaning out the sock drawer or pantry!

These simple wins create momentum to reach bigger goals. Here are a few ways that decluttering can support your weight loss journey:

1. Improved Food Choices

A clutter-free kitchen encourages healthier eating. When countertops and pantries are organized, it’s easier to access nutritious ingredients and prep meals. Get rid of expired items and tempting junk food that only add stress. Mindful choices become simpler when you don’t have to dig to find what you need—and you’ll know when you’re running low on your staple “go-to” foods.

2. Reduced Stress

Decluttering brings calm and order. A soothing, clean environment helps reduce stress and supports mental clarity, making it easier to stay on track with your goals.

3. Increased Motivation

Clear spaces boost focus and drive. When your surroundings are pleasant and organized, you’re more likely to feel inspired to care for yourself. Clarity and purpose go hand in hand with healthy habits.

4. Higher Energy Levels

Clutter can drain your energy and motivation. Feeling overwhelmed can cause you to give up. But once my members took on the decluttering challenge and saw how good they felt, many wanted to keep going!

So how do you get started?

Clothing can be especially challenging for those of us who’ve dealt with weight fluctuations. Maybe you’re afraid to get rid of bigger clothes “just in case.” Or you’re hanging onto “skinny clothes” as motivation. Some hesitate to buy new clothes until they reach a goal. But hiding in oversized, baggy clothing doesn’t make us feel our best. Take pride in how you look—no matter your size.

Our environment influences every part of our lives, including how we lose and maintain weight. By decluttering, organizing, and embracing a more intentional mindset, we can create a space that encourages balance, peace, and progress.

Updated on:

May 16, 2025