Wash Those Dishes | Creating Clarity in Cleanliness

Several studies have been conducted showing the connection between cleanliness and clarity. Individuals who maintain a clean environment often have a higher level of focus, preparation, and discipline. Though this study does not "include" everyone, as some individuals thrive in an organized mess, cleanliness remains "one" of the advantages to gain clarity and insight -- personally and professionally.

The concept of "wash those dishes" is not limited to maintaining a clean environment but also encompasses the cleanliness or healthiness of all things that require filtering in our lives. The concept comes from a holistic perspective, including relational, mental, emotional, and behavioral patterns.

Consistently washing those "dishes" both as a figure and literal form of speech—creates clarity for not only the things around us but within us as well.

Wash Those Dishes | Decluttering Spaces

"Wash those dishes," simply put, means to declutter your environment – your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual environment. As previously mentioned, numerous observational studies have been conducted, demonstrating that cleanliness can enhance a person's productivity, mental state, belief systems, and focus. SoClean found a survey conducted in 2010 that showed those who described their homes as cluttered or disorganized were more likely to be both fatigued and depressed. The messier one's personal space may be, the more prone one may be to a lack of direction or a sense of structure – which can disrupt the flow of one's belief system regarding productivity, focus, sense of direction, and sometimes even rest.

There is also the relevance of hygienic cleanliness. The saying, "When you look good, you feel good," is true. A clean body, brushed teeth, and washed hair can also help with clarity and confidence in a person's self-image and outward appearance in life. Medical studies reveal that good hygiene also leads to good health. Medical News Today reports that individuals with poor personal hygiene create an environment conducive to the growth of germs, which can lead to infections and diseases, whereas those who maintain good hygiene tend to be healthier. The study also shows that poor hygiene can lead to isolation, as most people do not enjoy being around those who possess strong odors and poor personal presentation (Medical News Today). Harsh reality, but "most" people are drawn to well-put together people. However, clean presentation should "always" remain a personal stance for your well-being and not what others seek.

There is also the importance of environmental cleanliness, specifically our ecosystem (proximity). This focuses on the cleanliness of our local neighborhoods and the surrounding environment. Without referencing a peer-reviewed journal or scholarly research blog, anyone can readily identify the difference between communities that are cleaner, well-maintained, and thriving compared to those that are not. Though there are "systematic plans" for some communities to not thrive, the reflection of such environments still points back to the people of that community – "collectively."

Decluttering is imperative on all levels, beginning with ourselves and internal environments and then extending to our external environments – "collectively."

It Always Starts With You | US

Again, the concept of "wash those dishes" is derived from a holistic health perspective – encompassing the mind, emotions, and spirit (belief system). To change the scope of one's life to have a positive impact, always start from within. Cleanliness starts from within. From the cleaning of our individual spaces to the upkeep of personal hygiene and health, from both disciplining and devoting our mind, time, and attention to things and people that will build us up – cleanliness is essential.

Not being 100% in "washing those dishes" is okay. However, making a "consistent" effort even when we stop or stumble still counts.

Whatever your dishes are, "wash them" and wash them continuously!

"Neatness and cleanness is not a function of how rich or poor you are, but the mentality and principle." -Ikechukwu Izuakor

Etsy