Six Tips for Organizing with ADHD
If you or someone you love has ADHD, you know that trying to get organized may require a different approach. Tasks others may find routine — like keeping a tidy home, managing a schedule, or staying focused on a task — feel overwhelming.
Contained and Co. understands and is passionate about helping people and families navigate organization with ADHD. We understand it first hand with our own families and have developed systems and best practices over time that can be applied to your home to make your days easier and give you precious time back.
#1 Start Small
People with ADHD often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks ahead of them, which can lead to procrastination. Start by breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if organizing the entire house feels like too much, focus on just one room, one corner, or one drawer at a time.
Chunking tasks into 10 minute increments can help avoid burnout and build momentum.
This can be applied to other areas of life, such as organizing paperwork or tackling a cluttered desk. By reducing a big task into bite-sized portions, you're more likely to get started — and finish.
#2 Use Timers
Setting a timer signals that there’s an end in sight when a project looks like it will loom on forever. By setting clear boundaries, timers also help reduce distractions and encourage a better understanding of how long tasks actually take.
#3 Create Designated Spaces for Essential Items
If you’re constantly frustrated by losing track of everyday items like keys, phones, and wallets, create a designated spot for these items. A hook by the front door for your keys and a small decorative tray or bowl for your phone and wallet can help you create a habit of always returning items to the same place.
This simple strategy removes the need for your brain to remember where you put things, reducing stress and making it easier to leave the house on time.
#4 Declutter and Simplify Your Space
Clutter is a major source of distraction for anyone, but it can be even more distracting for people with ADHD. Decluttering your home will remove excess distractions, but remember to start with small areas.
Using clear bins and/or labeling opaque storage containers can make it easier to see what you have and where it belongs. This eliminates the "out of sight, out of mind" issue that many with ADHD face when things are tucked away in hidden places.
We can assist in decluttering, setting up systems, and creating organizational structures that work for you rather than against you. There are even virtual consultations available, allowing for help and advice from the comfort of your own home.
#5 Be Compassionate with Yourself
It’s easy to fall into the trap of negative self-talk when things don’t go as planned or you feel frustrated. Organization is a skill that takes time to develop, especially if you’re managing ADHD or other challenges. Progress is the goal — not perfection!
Allow yourself some flexibility and acknowledge the progress you're making, no matter how small.
#6 Consider Professional Assistance
If organizing feels too overwhelming to manage alone, it might be worth considering help from a professional organizer specializing in ADHD like Contained and Co. !
We can assist in decluttering, setting up systems, and creating organizational structures that work for you rather than against you. There are even virtual consultations available, allowing for help and advice from the comfort of your own home.
It’s easy to feel discouraged if you’re trying to get organized with ADHD, but remember, it is possible! With the right information and support, you can manage the organizational challenges and make space in your brilliant mind for the things you truly love to do.
Resources for further support:
Feeling completely overwhelmed? We get it and we’d love to help! Contact Contained and Co. here for a quick chat to learn how it works and see if we’re a good fit.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Keeping you Contained,
Brandi and Lindsay