THE CONVERSATION: Can a messy person become a tidy person? Or are we doomed?

Being messy isn't a fixed personality trait, according to psychologists. Small environmental changes, routines and habits can help people become more organized over time. Some people naturally seem tidy, while others struggle to maintain order. Personality isn't destiny, and environmental factors and repeated behaviors matter.

Conscientiousness, one of the "Big Five" personality traits, includes tendencies towards being industrious, self-controlled and orderly. People with higher conscientiousness may find keeping things organized easier. However, being high in conscientiousness doesn't mean personality is fixed.

Messiness results from numerous tiny behaviors like leaving a cup on the desk, putting clothes on a chair, dropping keys wherever convenient, or deciding to deal with mail later. These actions can become habits when performed repeatedly in a certain context. The environment plays a crucial role in shaping behaviors. For instance, a small bowl beside the door can prompt putting keys in the right place and strengthen the association between the situation and that response.

The question arises whether consistently behaving in a more organized way changes one's personality. Research suggests that changing behaviors through which a personality trait is expressed may contribute to changing the trait itself. However, personality change is generally gradual, and becoming tidy doesn't mean you become an organized person overnight.

To become tidier, start by observing and noticing recurring problems and the behaviors that produce them. Decide on specific actions to replace the undesirable ones, making them easy to follow. Arrange the surroundings to prompt the new behavior and make it effortless. Link the new behavior to existing routines to facilitate the transition.

Ultimately, considering tidiness as a means to improve one's life rather than pursuing perfection is key. If clutter causes significant distress or interferes with everyday life, seeking professional help might be beneficial. However, if dealing with organization issues doesn't significantly impact daily life, changing habits to suit one's needs is sufficient.