Help for ADD Clutter Bugs

So many adults with ADD are plagued with clutter! Our desks are covered with papers. Our sinks are full of dishes. Our floors and counters are strewn with stuff.nnWhere Does Clutter Come From?nnClutter builds up easily for many ADDers. Sometimes, we get distracted and just place a paper or an object wherever it's convenient. Other times we find that, despite our best efforts, we just don't know where to put something, so we put it anywhere. Other times, we just don't care what goes where and why, and we shun the idea of "organization."nnNo matter why your clutter builds up, one things is clear: clutter affects the mind in a negative way.nnHow Clutter Affects the MindnnLooking at your clutter can often zap your energy on the spot. You get angry with yourself for letting it get to this point...and then you feel bad.nnYou want to clean up, you want to be organized, but you just don't know where to start...and that makes you feel bad, too.nnBecause you don't know where to start - and because cleaning and organizing is not your most favorite activity - you procrastinate...and that makes you feel even worse.nnThe result is that your clutter sticks around, untouched. And if you do manage to make some headway, chances are you'll be feeling bad again when the clutter quickly comes back.nnWhat an awful cycle!nnWhat to DonnThere is a proven way for ADDers to deal with clutter, and it's a 3-step process:nn 1. Sort the stuffn 2. Create the systemsn 3. Plan the follow throughnnHowever, the key to making this process work is to step back from the problem in order to create the solutions.nnIt's very difficult to deal with a problem like clutter when you're in the middle of it. The stress of the situation prevents you from accessing the motivation, energy, and skills you need to deal with the problem. It's necessary to remove yourself from the situation in order to deal with it.nnMost Importantly: Don't Judge YourselfnnDon't judge yourself because you tend to accumulate clutter - it will only prevent you from dealing with the problem. And it helps to know that many adults with ADD have problems managing clutter. But do know that when you are ready to deal with it, you can successfully get rid of your clutter!