Psychologists call the subconscious way we develop our living spaces ‘behavioural residue’ reflecting our behaviours, values and choices over time.

Insurance brand Hiscox  are working on a campaign based on psychology in the home with TV personality and celebrity psychologist Dr Linda. They asked me if I would like to send them a photo and some words about an object that was meaningful to me from my home.

I sent off a photo of my yellow jug and some thoughts to Dr Linda for analysis. This what I wrote:

This jug belonged to my mum and when she passed away 4 years ago it’s one of the only things I had from her house. I absolutely adored her and spent a lot of time with her. Her death was sudden and to be honest I still find it very hard to accept she’s gone. This jug is regularly filled with flowers which makes me think of her life and our home as a child where my dad always bought her flowers.

What Doctor Linda said about my yellow jug

This is such a beautiful jug and the fact that its used to hold flowers is kind of a celebration of life- its not just an object that sits there, its something that is looked at, used, engaged with. This is a wonderful thing to do with mementos handed down to us from people that we love. The act of using a precious item makes it easier to remember and engage with that person that left it to us even after they’re gone.

She is so spot on!

I really do believe in celebrating my mums life as it is my very best and happiest way of coping with my loss.

Dr Linda says:

In effect, our homes allow us to showcase our personalities. And what we showcase differs not only because of our personalities but also because of the life stage we’re in

I think at this point in my life I realise how very precious happiness is  and celebrating the happiness of my memories is important to me , I want my children to learn and remember their grandma was all about love and happiness and I try and capture that in how we think of her and celebrate her rather than be filled with sadness at our loss.

Dr Linda looked at a few other bloggers objects and analysed them too. Absolutely fascinating I think she got them spot on!   Have a look at her findings over at What your home says about you

I think my home definitely reflects me, rather chaotic and organised but full of life and colour!

What does your home say about you?