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Ever stood in a museum feeling nothing in front of a “masterpiece,” then turned the corner and felt deeply moved by something simple? There’s science behind that. Recent research shows that personal relevance—how much something connects to your own life—accounts for 28% of why you find art appealing. That’s more than color, composition, or technical skill. In other words, we like what means something to us, not what we’re told we should like.

This has big implications for your everyday spaces. That concert poster from a life-changing show, the coffee mug from your college graduation, or the weird sculpture your kid made aren’t clutter—they’re identity anchors. Research suggests that personalizing your environment reinforces your sense of self, provides psychological comfort, and creates spaces where you can genuinely relax. When we strip away everything personal in pursuit of Pinterest-perfect aesthetics, we might be removing the very elements that make a space psychologically nourishing.

Here’s your permission slip: surround yourself with things that matter to you, even if they don’t fit current trends. Those family photos on your desk, the amateur painting from a friend, the souvenirs that tell your story—they’re not superficial decorations. They’re tools for creating environments where you can be most fully yourself. The most beautiful space isn’t the one that impresses others; it’s the one that feels like home to you.

What objects in your space mean the most to you?

Disclaimer: The “Just Suppose Newsletter” and Blog share ideas in exploring personal progress as derived from various sources.  It is intended as information only and is not intended as advice to engage in any specific physical or mental activity.  Always consider whether these ideas, concepts, techniques & activities are right for you & always confer with your health professionals.