After recently completing my ‘ADHD for Professional Organisers course’, the main thing that I learnt above everything else is that there are no strict rules to helping people with ADHD to organise their home, the characteristics, what works, what doesn’t work is so varied from person to person. But, if I can help my client ‘enjoy’ and become focused on the task in hand, I am on to a winner!
When you’re diagnosed with ADHD, organising your home can help create an environment that supports your focus, productivity, and overall well-being. Although reaching this point can be extremely difficult, firstly having the focus and strategies to declutter and organise to a point of controlling and maintaining your surroundings can be a challenge.
It is my job to find what works for you, by understanding you, finding out to see if you have ever had anything that has worked for you in the past, and therefore, help you create successful systems that help you to maintain control over your surroundings.
Here are some strategies to help you get started:
1. Set realistic goals: Break down the organising tasks into small, manageable steps. Trying to tackle everything at once can be overwhelming and lead to frustration. Start with one area or room and move forward from there.
2. Declutter: Begin by decluttering your living space. Get rid of items you no longer use or need. Sort items into categories such as “keep,” “donate,” or “discard.” Remember to keep only the essentials and things that make you smile.
3. Create designated spaces: Assign specific places for different types of items to avoid losing or misplacing them. Use labels, bins, shelves, or drawer dividers to clearly define these spaces. Make sure to keep frequently used items easily accessible.
4. Simplify and streamline: Reduce visual and mental clutter by simplifying your belongings. Minimise the number of decorations, knick-knacks, and excess furniture. Opt for storage solutions that keep items out of sight but easily accessible when needed. Although, if you have tasks ‘to do’, keep them on show otherwise you may not do them.
5. Develop routines and systems: Establishing regular routines can help manage daily tasks. Create schedules for cleaning, meal planning, and other recurring activities. Use calendars, planners, or smartphone apps to set reminders and stay organised.
6. Use visual cues: Visual reminders can be particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD. Utilise whiteboards, sticky notes, or electronic boards to display important information, to-do lists, or upcoming events. Place them in prominent locations where you’ll see them frequently.
7. Time management techniques: ADHD can affect time perception, so using techniques like timers, alarms, or smartphone apps can help you stay on track and manage your time effectively. Set specific time limits for tasks to maintain focus and prevent hyperfocus on a single activity.
8. Seek professional support: Consider working with a professional organiser or ADHD coach who can provide personalised strategies and guidance. They can help you develop effective organisational systems tailored to your needs and provide ongoing support.
9. Break tasks into smaller steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time to maintain momentum and prevent feeling overwhelmed. Do not move on to the next task until the last is completed.
10. Embrace technology: Utilise technology to your advantage. There are numerous apps and digital tools available for organising tasks, creating to-do lists, managing schedules, and setting reminders. Find the ones that work best for you and integrate them into your routine.
Remember, everyone’s organisational needs are different, so it’s important to find strategies that suit your specific situation. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small victories, reward yourself and don’t hesitate to ask for support when needed.
Access to Work Fund – A way to gain funding if you work from home
If you need help in your home (UK only) there is a way to get funding called ‘Access to Work’. If you have your own business or work from home, you can gain funding to help pay for all sorts, including a Professional Organiser to help declutter and organise your home working environment. If you are interested in finding out more about this, you can download this pdf that tells you all about it and how to gain funding:
If you would like some support in your home, I am available for sessions and happy to travel for free up to 45minutes from SK22. I will travel further with a little extra petrol money. I also offer virtual ‘Power Hour’ sessions, so can help you in your home wherever you may be!
Visit my website for more information: www.fortheloveoftidying.co.uk
Why not join my free Facebook group called ‘Decluttering & Organising for Busy People’ where you will gain advice, support, encouragement and inspiration, plus there is a free giveaway every month for 2-hours of my time in-person, or a 1-hour virtual organising session. Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fortheloveoftidying/
If you would like to know more about me and how I can help you, visit my website www.fortheloveoftidying.co.uk
