Have you ever wondered what your habit of making or not making your bed reveals about your personality? This small daily gesture turns out to be more than just a routine; it can reflect how you manage your life and thoughts. Many people treat making the bed as a boring chore, while others see it as an essential ritual to kickstart their day on the right foot.
Why making your bed matters for your mindset and day
William H. McRaven, a retired U.S. Navy admiral, even wrote a book titled Make your bed: the little things that can change your life—and maybe the world. He argues that completing this simple task in the morning gives you your first win of the day, boosting your confidence and inspiring you to tackle other challenges. Making your bed isn’t just about tidiness; it can also improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and clarify your mindset. Think of it as a moving meditation—a moment where organizing your space helps organize your thoughts.
Who really makes their bed every day? surprises from the stats
According to a study shared by Very Well Mind and the National Sleep Foundation, roughly 70% of Americans make their bed every day. But this number changes depending on where you live and your lifestyle. For instance, people in the South and Northeast tend to make their beds more consistently than those living in the West or Midwest.
Age and living situation also play a significant role. Individuals over 40 and those who live with a partner are more likely to engage in this habit regularly. Perhaps life experience and shared responsibilities encourage a more organized approach—or maybe it’s simply about establishing routines that support a balanced life.
Psychological insights into why some leave their bed unmade
What does it really mean when someone leaves their bed unmade? It’s not always laziness or forgetfulness. Psychology offers deeper explanations for this choice.
Procrastination is one common reason. Starting a task—no matter how small—can be challenging, so making the bed often gets postponed day after day. For some, the task feels pointless or tiring, so it gets ignored.
A lack of routine can also explain why some choose to leave their beds undone. This often reflects a more flexible lifestyle without rigid schedules or rituals. It’s not necessarily a flaw, but rather a sign of a more relaxed and free-spirited organization style.
Interestingly, some people deliberately leave their bed messy as a way to take control of their space. It’s a subtle act of asserting freedom, a message that they set the rules in their own environment despite external pressures to conform.
Finally, the way someone cares for their bed can be a reflection of their personality. Whether you prefer order or a more bohemian style, your bedroom habits reveal your values, priorities, and identity. That simple detail can say more about you than you might expect.
I’ve noticed in my own life that on days when I make my bed first thing, I feel more focused and ready to handle challenges. It’s like starting with a small success sets a positive tone. On days I don’t, everything else seems a bit more chaotic. It’s a small act but one loaded with meaning.
How about you? Does making your bed boost your mood, or do you prefer the freedom of a rumpled nest? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s see what this tiny habit means to different people.
And if you found this story insightful, don’t forget to share it with friends—you never know who might gain a new perspective on their morning routine!
Make your bed. It only takes a couple of minutes. I make mine the minute I get out of it in the morning. It’ll make your day better.