Methods of Focus
- “Brain Dump” Consultation: Tackle the big picture and your friction points
- Body Doubling & Sorting: Stay focused and reduce decision fatigue
- “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” Audit: Clear, labeled, or open storage so you see and remember your belongings and projects
- Frictionless Zone Setup: Organize spaces designed around your unique needs
- “Now & Later” System: Set up systems to manage incoming items and tasks
- Mindful Practices: Set intentions and goals to guide daily routines
Also see Entrepreneur Assistance
Tip Sheet for DIY Projects, Between Sessions, and Maintenance
1. Plan Ahead
Gather your supplies before you start to avoid interruptions:
- Donation bags
- Recycling bins
- Trash bags
- Cleaning cloths & cleaner
- Vacuum or sweeper
- Painter’s tape & a marker for temporary labels as needed
- A professional label maker of any kind is great as well if you have one.
- Container options: Collect any storage containers you may already have on hand, reuse the bottoms of a sturdy box, measure the space and purchase with the space in mind. Visit my storage container guide to learn more.
2. Set a Timer
Work in 20-minute focused sessions, followed by a 5-minute break. An analog timer can be especially helpful to visualize time passing. This article from my website explains the benefits of using an analog timer in more detail.
3. Minimize Distractions
Turn off unnecessary notifications and let others know you’re unavailable for non-emergencies so you can hyper-focus on the task.
4. Use Background Noise
If silence feels distracting, try upbeat music or steady background noise to help maintain focus. Feel free to try my background playlist on YouTube.
5. Start Small
Begin with one manageable area—a drawer, shelf, or single zone. If you’re unsure where to start, begin at the entry and work your way around the room, one zone or category at a time.
6. Create a Sorting Area
Designate a clear space (bed, table, counter, or floor) to sort and group items easily.
7. Start Decluttering
Pull items out and sort the obvious first:
- Trash
- Recycling
- Donations
- Items to sell
- Items to keep
Group items that belong elsewhere and set them aside to return later.
8. Tidy as You Go
Light cleaning while organizing boosts mood and helps the space feel rewarding right away. A non-toxic cleaning agent with essential oils can be a great sensory boost.
9. Delegate When Possible
Share tasks whenever possible. Involving household members—especially children and teens—by offering simple choices (two options is ideal to start) can feel empowering and build confidence.
Using positive, encouraging language out loud as you organize often inspires others and sets a strong example. Over time, a supportive environment helps shape a more compassionate inner voice, as the language we hear around us is internalized and reflected in how we speak to ourselves.
10. Remove Donations & Trash Immediately
Getting donations out right away prevents second-guessing and frees up space quickly.
11. Practise Mindful Accusation
Keeping items organized saves time, money, and energy. When everything has a clear place, it’s easier to find what you need, put items away, and notice when supplies are running low or an item can’t be easily repaired. Invest in what matters. Nature abhors a vacuum—when space is created, it’s important to be intentional about what fills it.
Celebrate small wins and share with others, it’s contagious!
Trained Professional Organizer & ADHD Specialist 