As midterms approach on university campuses, anxiety tends to peak. With exams, essays, and perpetual deadlines in between, staying on top of things seems like a fantasy. But take it from us: having a few easy adulting skills down can turn your days more relaxed, alert, and vibrant.
I have been teaching college for more than 30 years, and this year I offered a new course titled “Adulting: The Art of Intentional Living.” My mission: Help students live more intentionally with purpose, balance, and happiness. One of the most potent lessons I teach is how to make space in your surroundings, relationships, and even your mind.
When you learn to unclutter your environment, you unclutter your mind. This tiny change can transform the entire manner in which you live and feel.
Table of Contents
Why “Spaciousness” Matters
It was when I was in my twenties that I learned about spaciousness the notion that through making space, we create freedom. This is the concept that has remained my pillar life philosophy all these years. It has become the guide that influences the way I make choices, what I say yes to, and how I guard my energy.
A clean, quiet space isn’t only aesthetically pleasing, it feels good too. Even the smallest dorm room can be your little haven if you tend to it with love.
10 Easy Adulting Strategies for a Quieter, More Organized Life
1. Clean Up Every Day
Return items to their proper place. It’s efficient, it keeps clutter at bay, and it makes your mind feel at ease. Five minutes of clean-up time daily keeps shenanigans at bay.
2. Make Your Bed Every Morning
It may seem insignificant, but it creates the tone for the rest of your day. A made bed immediately makes your room feel tidy and gets your day going with a positive sense of direction and motivation.
3. Keep Laundry in Check
Don’t let clothes accumulate. Wash and fold your laundry one to two times a week and switch out your linens regularly. New sheets = new attitude.
4. Do the Dishes Right Away
A sink full of dishes adds hidden stress. Clean and put away mugs, plates, and utensils daily, it’s healthier and keeps your space inviting.
5. Turn Cleaning into a Vibe
Make it fun! Play your favorite music, dance around, or clean with your roommates. Ten minutes of energetic cleaning can lift your mood and strengthen friendships.
6. Keep Your Space Guest-Ready
Regular cleaning ensures you’ll never feel the need to freak out when friends arrive. Have wipes or sprays on hand for impromptu touch-ups and don’t forget, reusable towels are green-friendly as well!
7. Clean Out Your Closet
If it doesn’t fit, you don’t adore it, or it doesn’t make you feel fabulous donate it! Let your wardrobe breathe life and create space for new possibilities (and ensembles).
8. Keep It Healthy
Once you get ill, disinfect common areas. Change toothbrushes every month, sanitize hands, and keep the germs at bay. A clean environment = a healthy you.
9. Bring Something You Love
Reward yourself with something that makes your space special a candle, pillow, artwork, or plant. For me, it’s fresh flowers. Even a $4 bouquet brings beauty, joy, and color to my day.
10. Love Organization as Self-Care
A clean space is not perfection, it’s peace. It’s a kind act towards yourself. When your space is tidy, so are your thoughts.
The Takeaway: Adulting Is All About Mindful Living
“Adulting” isn’t just paying bills or doing laundry, it’s about creating a life that feels balanced, intentional, and fulfilling. Start with your environment. Outer order leads to inner calm, and when your space feels right, everything else begins to align.
So put on your favorite playlist, grab that mop, and make your space a reflection of the peaceful, powerful person you’re becoming.
