It's never just about stuff

​What is clutter?  Clutter is simply delayed decisions!

• Maybe you need the items but you haven’t decided where they go
• Maybe you would like to decorate with them but haven’t decided where
• Maybe they have been there so long you didn’t know you had them and don’t even need them anymore!

Making decisions on your stuff will clear your spaces and your mind.

Sounds easy right?  Sometimes when you feel like your space is overrun by clutter it is just situational.

According to the Institute for Challenging Disorganization® (ICD®), situational disorganization occurs when you find yourself in clutter or chaos for a short period of time due to a change in your situation or living arrangement.

Other times, it’s more than that.  In these cases, it might be more chronic.  According to ICD®, common characteristics of someone with Chronic Disorganization include:

• Accumulate large quantities of objects, paper, etc. beyond apparent necessity or pleasure
• Has difficulty parting with things
• Has wide range of interests and many uncompleted projects
• Needs visual cues as reminders to take action
• Tends to be easily distracted or lose concentration

If you discover you or someone you are close to is experiencing Chronic Disorganization, the most important thing is to be patient!

It didn’t happen overnight and will take time to learn new skills and strategies to cope.

Learn more by visiting ICD®.  You will find a vast array or resources including the Clutter hoarding scale which is a tool that will help you assess the health and safety of the home.

If you find that you or someone you know would like help, we recommend a two-fold approach.  With Chronic Disorganization, it's never just about the stuff.  There is a mental/cognitive component that is best treated with therapy.  As for the person's surroundings, working with a Professional Organizer in tandem can help the person learn new skills and strategies for how to deal with their stuff. 

But first, we must examine whether you are ready for change.  Check out ICD®'s factsheet:  Readiness for change 

Remember, people change only when they are ready.  "Change is possible with desire, determination, commitment, and a compassionate support system."

Are you ready for change?
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