April Intention: Declutter!
One of the talks at ADHD Palooza mentioned how clutter is particularly challenging for those with ADHD/neurodiversities. It’s something I know and have to remind myself to put into practice.
My relationship with clutter fluctuates: sometimes it feels like a cozy nest of inspiration, other times an overwhelming distraction. The key, I've learned, is to declutter when my space no longer feels welcoming.
Cleaning also serves as perfect structured procrastination (see resources below). When avoiding bigger tasks, organizing a drawer becomes surprisingly appealing, and I love the satisfaction of organized spaces.
This April, I'm committing to minimizing possessions. Some days I'll review/organize an entire drawer, shelf, or surface; other days, I’ll quickly find an item before going to sleep. Ideally, I will end the month with more organized spaces, less stuff, and the ability to find what I need.
Decluttering Strategy
🌪️ Preventing Chaos: I've learned that tackling too much creates multiple unfinished projects. I’ll pull out everything from one drawer, clean a bit, go to put something away somewhere else only to be distracted by that area, pull everything out, etc. My solution this month is to focus on one area at a time. If I see another area that requires attention, I will remind myself of my goal in the first area.
☕ Future-Need Anxiety: For items I'm hesitant to discard, I'm creating a "maybe" box with a one-year expiration date. I will check on the box bi-monthly to see if I can part with anything sooner.
👚 Ongoing Closet Cleaning: I get overwhelmed when I try to review too many clothing items. My plan is to wear one neglected but season-appropriate item weekly. If it doesn't fit or feel good, I will think it for its time, and donate it.
🥫 Food: Throughout April, I'll remove expired foods and donate items we won't use before they expire.
📂 Paper: I have a lot of files. One filing cabinet will get a thorough review this month to reduce my paper collection.
📦 Mindful Acquiring: Although part of me is focused on reduction, another part is still purchasing new things. This month I'll remain conscious of new purchases, ensuring I end with less each day.
Looking forward to seeing how much I can change my workspace and environment!
Resources:
Calming Tips for Cleaning - book summary with suggestions, including 5 helpful categories to quickly clean a room.
ADHD Women’s Palooza Summary - ADHD tips
Structured Procrastination - book summary with tips and additional resources
Tracking Energy Levels - About the grid at the top of the tracker.
Other Tracking Sheets - (this page is in development)
