Organizing Made Simple: Practical Steps for Starting Small and Achieving Clutter-Free Success

Organizing your living space can be a daunting task, especially if clutter has piled up over time. Big life transitions as well as busy schedules compound clutter and make getting started even harder. Most people who address this topic advise you to search for your WHY and find what motivates you in order to get started. But what if you're past that and just looking at heaps of clutter and find yourself with tons of motivation but absolutely no clue where to ACTUALLY begin.

TLDR;

1. Start small, like your bathroom or car.

2. Top to bottom, left to right.

3. Embrace the ADHD but don't hyperfocus

4. One space at a time

1. The Power of Starting Small:

When it comes to organizing, starting small is key to avoiding overwhelm. Begin with spaces that are manageable in size, such as a bathroom or your car. These smaller areas provide a sense of accomplishment as you complete the task, motivating you to tackle larger spaces later on. Remember, organizing is a process, and the small victories will lead to more significant achievements.

2. Top to Bottom, Left to Right:

A systematic approach is crucial for organizing efficiently. Start from the top of the area you are working on and work your way down. This approach helps ensure that nothing is overlooked and prevents you from redoing parts you have already organized. Additionally, following a left-to-right direction helps in maintaining focus and keeping the process organized.

3. Embrace Neurodivergent Strategies:

If you have ADHD or other neurodivergent traits, traditional organizing methods may not always work for you. That's okay! Embrace your unique thought process and work with your strengths. For instance, if you tend to see other like items while organizing, go ahead and group them together as you find them. The key is to return to where you left off promptly, ensuring that the process remains structured and efficient.

4. One Space at a Time:

During your sessions, remember to focus on one space at a time. Resist the urge to jump between different areas, as it can lead to unfinished projects and more overwhelm. Finish what you start, and if you complete a task early, move on to the next project only if you have enough time to finish it.

Conclusion:

Practicality is key in conquering clutter and transforming your living space. Begin with small areas to gain confidence through manageable victories. Follow a systematic approach—top to bottom, left to right—to ensure thoroughness and prevent redoing tasks. Embrace your unique thought process, especially if neurodivergent, while grouping similar items and returning to your starting point. Focus on one space during dedicated sessions, avoiding the temptation to juggle tasks. By applying these strategies, you'll effectively navigate the journey from clutter to organized tranquility.

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