Navigating Clutter: A Neurodiverse Perspective on Organization
I’ve noticed a huge correlation between neurodiversity and clutter. Many of my clients are affected by ADHD and other types of psychological difference – either diagnosed or self identified. Is this something you suspect or recognise in yourself or someone you know?
Organising can be a real challenge for many neurodiverse individuals. This is a very wide pool nowadays, as more and more of us identify challenges in this area. From difficulties in categorising items to sensory sensitivities and just feeling overwhelmed, it’s no wonder our living spaces can get chaotic.
These challenges can lead to increased stress and anxiety, making it even harder to maintain a tidy and functional environment. The constant battle with clutter can feel never-ending and disheartening.
How neurodiversity can lead to clutter
One common factor is a tendency to accumulate. People with ADHD often struggle to decide what to keep and what to let go, leading to a buildup of unnecessary items. Those with OCD might hold onto things out of fear of making a mistake by throwing them away.
Organizational struggles are another big factor. Do you find it hard to set up and stick to organizational systems? This is common for many neurodiverse individuals. Often this can be due to difficulties in categorising items, sensory sensitivities, or just feeling overwhelmed by the task. The result can be a chaotic and unmanageable living space.
Procrastination and motivation also play a big role. If you are like many neurodiverse folks, you may struggle with “executive dysfunction,” meaning you have trouble planning, prioritising, and completing tasks. This can create a cycle of procrastination where cleaning or organising feels so overwhelming that you keep getting put it off, leading to even more clutter.
A couple of examples of how this can manifest
One of my clients found it nearly impossible to throw away old newspapers and magazines because they were convinced they might need them someday.
Another spent so much time arranging her belongings “just right” that she never actually finished, leaving piles of unfinished work.
These are serious challenges to face, however, clearly identifying and understanding them is the first crucial step toward you creating a more manageable and harmonious environment. By acknowledging the issues, you can work to develop personalised strategies that help you stay organised and reduce clutter.
Some strategies to overcome these obstacles
Do you recognise some of these patterns? Well here are two targeted strategies to make it easier to manage clutter effectively.
Establish clear structures, routines and organization.
When you struggle with making decisions, it really helps when you set up your home environment with defined spaces for specific items and develop routines to maintain order. For example, having designated trays for mail, keys, and other frequently used items can prevent them from piling up on countertops. Consistent routines and structures, can really help you feel more comfortable and less anxious.
Get connected
It is easy to feel isolated when you are neurodiverse, because it can feel like the world just doesn’t get you and your struggles. Connection, support, and motivation are vital to counter this. The importance of community and shared experiences can’t be overstated. When you’re surrounded by people who understand your challenges and are on the same journey, it can make a world of difference.
Being part of a supportive group offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation. Knowing that you’re not alone in your struggles can be incredibly reassuring. Secondly, it offers a platform to share tips, strategies, and successes. Learning from others’ experiences can give you new insights and ideas you might not have considered.
Programs I offer like Simply Declutter and The Clutter Shift offer a structured approach to decluttering, including regular check-ins and a supportive community of people facing similar challenges. Check out my website if you want to learn more or want to chat about joining.
Remember, managing clutter as a neurodiverse individual is a journey, not a destination. It’s about progress, not perfection. By understanding your unique challenges and implementing tailored strategies, you can create a living space that supports your well-being and enhances your quality of life. Don’t be afraid to seek help, whether from professional organizers, support groups, or loved ones. With patience, persistence, and the right tools, I believe all of us can overcome the challenges of clutter and create a home environment that truly works for them.
I encourage everyone to embrace their uniqueness – including neurodiversity – and use it as a strength to find creative solutions to organising. Your unique perspective can lead to innovative ways of managing your space that might not work for others, but are perfect for you. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to organization – what matters most is finding what works best for you and your lifestyle.
Helen Sanderson is a psychotherapist, interior designer, author of The Secret Life of Clutter, and one of the UK’s most well-respected clutter experts. Helen helps people create beautifully organised, clutter-free homes and live more mindful and meaningful lives. She works with her clients holistically to uncover what their homes reveal about their psyches and what is blocking them. And then, with compassion, take positive action to clear those obstacles. This leads to life-changing shifts, which leave people with a new-found clarity and homes that support them to live their best lives.
