So don’t tell the Prince, but Princeton researchers have found that clutter affects our ability focus.  Essentially, the chaos of being messy distracts you from processing key information. Over at the Unclutterer, they give this breakdown:

The clutter competes for your attention in the same way a toddler might stand next to you annoyingly repeating, “candy, candy, candy, candy, I want candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy, candy …” Even though you might be able to focus a little, you’re still aware that a screaming toddler is also vying for your attention. The annoyance also wears down your mental resources and you’re more likely to become frustrated.