Host Julie Legg speaks with Tina Hazen, author and professional organizer (Houston, Texas) about her work helping others—especially those with ADHD—create structured, clutter-free spaces: organising the chaos.
Diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety at 38, Tina (founder of Think Inside the Boxx) emphasizes that traditional organizing methods often don’t work for individuals with ADHD, who may struggle with object permanence, decision paralysis, and maintaining systems over time. She shares her personal experiences of trial and error in organizing her own space and explains how she turned these lessons into strategies for her clients. Through her book, Life is Messy, and her professional work, Tina empowers people to design spaces that work with their ADHD brains rather than against them.
KEY TAKEAWAYS - Decluttering & Organizing Tips
- Use the "Like with Like" method: Group similar items together. This helps prevent over-purchasing and ensures you know what you already have before shopping.
- Create a "landing spot": Designate a space near the entrance for essentials like keys, bags, sunglasses, and other daily-use items. This prevents misplaced items and reduces the stress of searching for them when leaving the house.
- Set a timer for small tasks: If an organizing task feels overwhelming, set a timer for 10-15 minutes. This allows you to focus on one small section at a time, making progress more manageable.
- Use visual storage solutions: ADHDers often struggle with object permanence (forgetting about items if they are out of sight). Using open baskets or clear storage bins can help keep items visible and prevent clutter from accumulating.
- Start with the most stressful area Identify the space in your home that causes the most frustration (e.g., an overstuffed closet or messy kitchen). Tackling the biggest stressor first provides an immediate sense of relief and motivation to continue.
- Body doubling for decluttering: Having a friend or accountability partner present while organizing can help maintain focus and motivation. Even if they are not actively helping, their presence can reduce distractions and increase productivity.
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