By Jeff Copper, MBA, PCC, PCAC, CPCC, ACG – January 6, 2025
You may be reading this because the idea of organizing caught your eye. Many of those with ADHD label themselves as disorganized when they see the clutter around them or think of the odd ways they manage tasks. The truth is, however, that much of their “disorganization” is simply based on how it looks.
As an ADHD coach, I often encourage my clients to tackle organizing through an engineering mindset. Does this sound surprising? Actually, it is a bit of engineering, because the first step is mapping out your existing organizing system. Yes, whether it feels that way or not, you do have one! It’s no small feat that you’ve reached this point in life, which means you do have a system. The challenge is that you probably don’t recognize your system simply because it doesn’t look like what you expect.
This is where you can reshape your mindset around organization. I’ve often spoken about what I call “ugly organizational systems,” which means they are not neat, tidy, or good looking. In my opinion, “organization” is practical, which means, if you can find what you need when you need it. To me, that’s organized. It doesn’t have to be picture perfect.
When I’m working with my clients on issues around disorganization and their systems, most of them suddenly come to realize they’re closer to effective organization than they thought. Sometimes, they need only a few tweaks to streamline their approach. Sometimes, when they expect things to look a certain way, it only interferes with how functional the system could be. When you have ADHD, all it takes is a system that aligns with how your unique brain works. That’s a great deal more important and beneficial than a system that just looks nice.
So, as you consider improving your organizing strategy, start by drawing a map of your current system. First, look at how you get certain things done, and then, think about the factors that support you in completing tasks. This approach requires a shift in mindset, but you’ll find it to be very productive. However, if you find it too challenging to be objective in mapping out your own systems, consider working with a coach. It could make all the difference.
Remember, the goal is not to have a system that merely looks good but, rather, to create a system that truly works for you and your uniquely wired brain. I’d love to hear your thoughts about this, so please leave your comments below.