Neurodivergent-Friendly Home Organization Tips
Do you struggle with keeping your home organized and tidy? As a neurodivergent person, traditional organization methods may not work for you. However, that doesn't mean you can't have a clean and functional living space.
Prefer to listen rather than read? Press play below.
Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the natural variations in how our brains work. This can include conditions such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. While these conditions can present challenges in certain areas, they also come with strengths and abilities. Understanding how your brain works will help you create systems that work for you.
When it comes to home organization, neurodivergent people may struggle with tasks that involve executive functioning skills, such as planning, prioritizing, and time management. However, there are strategies that can make these tasks more manageable.
Understanding Neurodiversity and Home Organization
As a neurodivergent person, you may have unique needs when it comes to organizing your home. Understanding neurodiversity and how it affects your organizational needs can help you create a home environment that works for you.
The Importance of Structure
Many neurodivergent people thrive on structure and routine. Having a consistent organizational system in place can help you feel more in control of your environment and reduce feelings of overwhelm. For many of you, the idea of routine sounds restricting. However, finding the right balance of routine and spontaneity can be the best of both worlds. The structure and routine have to work with your life and your brain.
Consider using tools like calendars, to-do lists, and color-coded labels to create a clear and consistent organizational system. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can also help you stay on track and feel less overwhelmed.
Neurodiversity, Age, and Organizational Needs
It's important to remember that neurodiversity is not limited to any specific age group. Children, teenagers, and adults can all be neurodivergent and have unique organizational needs.
For children, creating a visual schedule can be helpful in establishing routines and reducing anxiety. Teens may benefit from tools like planners and checklists to help them stay on top of schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Adults may find that creating a designated workspace or using digital organizational tools can help them stay focused and productive.
Regardless of age, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to home organization. Take the time to identify your unique needs and preferences, and create an organizational system that works for you.
Organizational Systems for Different Abilities
When it comes to organizing your home, it's important to consider your individual abilities. Some people may struggle with executive functioning, while others may have difficulty with fine motor skills. Whatever your abilities may be, there are ways to adapt organizing methods to fit your needs.
For those with executive functioning challenges, creating a routine and sticking to a schedule can be helpful. Consider using a planner or calendar to keep track of daily tasks and appointments. Part of being organized is making sure items are put away and your space is clean.
Putting cleaning tasks in regular rotation will help. Often, however, a task feels too big, and you don't know where to start. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can also make them less overwhelming. You don't need to look at all the steps at once — just the first one. When that one is done, look at the next.
If fine motor skills are a challenge, consider using organizing tools such as drawer dividers or storage bins with handles. Labeling items with large, easy-to-read font can also make it easier to find what you need.
Getting yourself the right tools to complete a job is a necessity. If you have sensory issues, washing dishes might be difficult. Make sure you have gloves or a washing wand with a sponge on the end so you don't actually have to touch the sponge. If the noise of the vacuum bothers you, invest in some good headphones.
Incorporating Flexibility and Accessibility
Incorporating flexibility and accessibility into your home organization systems can make them more neurodivergent-friendly. This means allowing for changes and adjustments as needed, and making sure that your organizing systems are accessible to everyone in your household.
Consider using adjustable shelving or storage bins that can be easily moved around. This can make it easier to accommodate changing needs and preferences. Additionally, using color-coded labels or pictures can make organizing systems more accessible to those who may struggle with reading or language processing.
Want to learn more about executive functioning? Take my FREE course.
Strategies for Enhancing Focus and Productivity
When it comes to home organization, neurodivergent people may struggle with maintaining focus and productivity. Here are some strategies that can help you stay on track:
Using Calendars and Checklists
One of the most effective ways to stay organized is by using calendars and checklists. A calendar can help you keep track of important deadlines, appointments, and events. You can use a physical calendar or an electronic one, depending on your preference. Knowing what you have on your schedule will help prevent things from sneaking up on you. It can give you the “big picture” of your week and month.
A checklist is also a useful tool for staying organized. It can help you break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. You can create a checklist for daily, weekly, or monthly tasks, depending on your needs.
Employing Timers and Breaks Effectively
Another way to improve focus and productivity is by using timers and breaks. A timer can help you stay focused on a task for a set amount of time. You can use a physical timer or an app on your phone or computer.
Just like using the Pomodoro method for work tasks, you can also time block for organization tasks. Your closet has too much in it, but you can't even think about giving up a whole day to devote to it? Time block. Set a timer for 20 minutes and work on one section. When the time goes off, you leave and take a break. You can either then go back for another block when your break is done, or wait until tomorrow.
Taking breaks is also important for maintaining focus and productivity. You can use a timer to schedule breaks throughout the day. During your breaks, you can engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as taking a walk, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness.
Many times, we feel guilt about taking breaks if a task isn't done. But if you keep pushing yourself, your body and brain will quit. (No, you're not really gonna die, but you will be completely useless and unproductive). If you don't take a break, your brain will take one for you — and it won't be at the most convenient times.
Even when you're in the middle of a super-productive hyper-focus session, you still need to take breaks or you'll face burnout.
These strategies can help you stay on track and achieve your goals.
Incorporating Health and Wellness into Daily Routines
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for everyone, but it can be especially important for neurodivergent people. Incorporating health and wellness into your daily routines can help you feel better physically and mentally. And when you feel good, you can get more done and put in the effort to maintain organization.
Exercise and Movement for Mental Health
Regular exercise and movement can help improve mental health and reduce stress and anxiety. You don't have to be a fitness enthusiast to reap the benefits of physical activity. Simple activities like taking a walk, doing yoga, or dancing can help boost your mood and improve your overall health.
For those of you with ADHD, having a regular physical outlet is imperative. You might not feel like exercising, but that physical activity will benefit your attention and focus.
To make exercise a part of your daily routine, try scheduling it into your calendar or setting a reminder on your phone. You can also find an exercise buddy or join a fitness class to help keep you motivated.
Meal Planning and Kitchen Organization
Eating a balanced diet is an essential part of maintaining good health. Meal planning and kitchen organization can help make healthy eating easier and more accessible.
Start by creating a meal plan for the week. This can help you stay on track with your nutrition goals as well as save time and money. When grocery shopping, stick to your list and choose whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Being able to do your shopping online and then picking it up helps keep to the list and limit impulse buys.
Meal planning is hard for a lot of people. It takes a lot of extra effort up front. Try to keep as simple as possible. Get your partner and kids involved. I keep a list of our favorite dinners on my fridge. Every week, we make a list of 4 dinners (Cuz that's how often I'm willing to cook). Then I look at my schedule and put the dinners where they make the most sense for me.
I add the ingredients needed for the dinners to my grocery list (also on the fridge). Anything that anyone wants from the store has to be on the list or it isn't purchased. If you have the time and energy to do food prep to make your meals ahead of time, go for it. It will save tons of time during the week.
Keeping your kitchen organized can also help eating at home more manageable. Make sure your pantry and fridge are stocked with favorites, and use clear containers to store snacks and leftovers. Being able to see what you have is key to not wasting it.
Technology and Tools for Home Organization
When it comes to home organization, technology and tools can be incredibly helpful. Here are some tips on how to leverage apps and platforms and select products and services for your specific needs.
Leveraging Apps and Platforms for Better Organization
There are many apps and platforms available that can help you stay organized. Some popular options include:
- Trello: A visual project management tool that allows you to create boards, lists, and cards to keep track of tasks and projects.
- Evernote: A note-taking app that allows you to capture and organize ideas, notes, and to-do lists in one place.
- Google Keep: A note-taking app that allows you to create notes, lists, and reminders that sync across your devices.
- Asana: A project management tool that allows you to create tasks, assign them to team members, and track progress.
These apps and platforms can be especially helpful for neurodivergent people who may struggle with traditional paper-based organization systems. With these tools, you can easily create and rearrange tasks and lists to fit your specific needs.
Selecting Products and Services for Neurodivergent Needs
When selecting products and services for home organization, it's important to consider your specific needs as a neurodivergent individual. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Sensory needs: If you are sensitive to certain textures or materials, consider using products that are made from soft or natural materials.
- Visual needs: If you are easily overwhelmed by visual clutter, consider using storage solutions that are opaque or have doors to hide items from view.
- Executive function needs: If you struggle with executive function, consider using products that have clear labels or color-coded systems to help you stay organized.
Some products and services that may be helpful for neurodivergent people include:
- Drawer dividers: These can be used to separate items within a drawer, making it easier to find what you need.
- Label makers: These can be used to create clear and consistent labels for items and storage containers.
- Professional organizers: If you need extra support, consider hiring a professional organizer who can help you create an organization system that works for you.
By selecting the right products and services, you can create a home organization system that meets your specific needs as a neurodivergent individual.
When it comes to organizing your home, it's important to personalize your approach to fit your preferences and lifestyle choices. This can help you feel empowered and in control of your space. There is no quick fix for being organized. Ultimately, you need to devise a system that makes sense to you and that you can maintain without feeling overwhelmed.
It doesn't matter if your system doesn't make sense to other people. It doesn't matter if your mother thinks your house isn't clean enough – what's important is what you're comfortable with.
Take your time to find the products and systems that work for you. Don't try to implement 40 things all at once. Start small. Master one area or task, and then move onto another. Over time, you'll be able to reap the benefits of your hard work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are effective decluttering strategies for neurodivergent people?
When it comes to decluttering, neurodivergent people may find it challenging to decide what to keep and what to let go of. One effective strategy is to break the task down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, focus on decluttering one room or area at a time instead of trying to tackle the entire house at once. Another helpful tip is to create a sorting system that works for you, such as sorting items into categories or using color-coded labels.
How can adults with ADHD best organize their living spaces?
For adults with ADHD, it can be helpful to create a designated space for everything and to keep items in their designated spots. This can reduce the likelihood of losing or misplacing items. Another effective strategy is to minimize visual clutter by using storage containers and labeling them clearly.
What tools and products are recommended for ADHD-friendly home organization?
There are several tools and products that can be helpful for ADHD-friendly home organization, such as storage containers, label makers, and wall organizers. It can also be helpful to use a timer or reminder app to stay on track with organizing tasks. Additionally, consider using a planner or calendar to schedule regular decluttering and organizing sessions.
What are some home hacks to create an ADHD-friendly environment?
Creating an ADHD-friendly environment can involve making small changes that can have a big impact. For example, using a white noise machine or calming essential oils can help reduce distractions and promote relaxation. Additionally, using brightly colored or patterned storage containers can make it easier to locate items quickly. Finally, consider using visual reminders, such as sticky notes or a whiteboard, to help keep tasks and priorities top of mind.
