For a woman with ADHD, decluttering projects can be daunting and overwhelming. The sheer number of strategies and methods available can be paralyzing, making it difficult to know where to start or what to do next. Without a plan, it’s easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis or mindlessly try different tips without making any progress.
To overcome this, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place before starting a decluttering project. Having a plan helps you feel in control, like the boss of your own project, and allows you to take charge of the process. By knowing exactly what to do and how to approach the task, you can overcome moments of overwhelm and stay on track.
In my own experience, I wish someone had shared these six simple steps with me when I first started decluttering years ago. If I had followed these six steps when I first started decluttering, I would have been kinder to myself and my home. By taking these steps, you can start your decluttering project on the right foot and set yourself up for success.
Instead of diving into decluttering without a plan, take these six steps to evaluate your home and identify areas that need attention. These steps can also be applied at any time to assess your home and prioritize which areas need attention.
Here are the six steps:
Look: Walk through your home one room at a time, giving each room attention. Listen to your inner voice and describe how you feel about each room.
What Works? Give your home positive feedback by acknowledging what works well. Identify what’s great about your home, what rooms are well-organized, and what spaces are welcoming.
What Doesn’t Work? Provide constructive criticism to your home, focusing on areas that need improvement. Avoid being too critical or harsh, and instead focus on finding solutions.
Be a Dreamer: Imagine your ideal home, where everything is organized and easy to find. Ask yourself what you would like your home to look and feel like.
Be a Realist: Assess whether your dream is realistic given your resources and willingness to invest time and effort. Be honest with yourself about what you can achieve.
Action Plan: Create a step-by-step plan to achieve your desired outcome. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, prioritize tasks, and set milestones.
By following these six steps, you’ll be able to create a personalized plan for your decluttering project, making it easier to stay focused and motivated throughout the process. Remember to take it one step at a time, and don’t be too hard on yourself or your home. With this approach, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goal of a balanced and organized home.