“Consistency is calming; surprises produce anxiety in most individuals with ASD.”

Temple Grandin, ‘The Way I See it, A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger’s’, 2008

Introduction

Christmas and New Year can be times of joy, celebration, and often, a lot of clutter. Personally, I always enjoyed the outdoor aspect of the holiday season – the lights, the atmosphere, and the feeling of general silliness all around. On the other hand, I did not like having to engage with it – the repeated conversations or the forced camaraderie, for example. Before I learned how to prioritise my neurodivergent wellbeing over following polite convention and accepting every invitation, that special time of year used to come with a heavy emotional toll.

Preparing for Visitors

For neurodivergent adults like me, the festive season can bring additional challenges, especially when it comes to managing the increased mess and maintaining a calm living environment. Let’s explore together some practical and realistic ways to for organise and declutter your neurodivergent home during these busy periods, with a focus on long-term goals and self-care.

The Challenge

Preparing your home for visitors can be overwhelming. The influx of people, gifts, and decorations can quickly lead to a chaotic environment, which can be particularly distressing for neurodivergent individuals.

The Solution

1. Plan Ahead: Start early. Break down the tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For example, clean one room at a time or organise one drawer each day. This habit is easier to maintain as it is over before you know it, reducing the chance of getting distracted by squirrels!
2. Create a Checklist: Use a visual checklist to keep track of what needs to be done. This can help reduce anxiety and ensure nothing is forgotten. This can be as simple as using sticky notes as reminders – and they also add fun colour to the process!
3. Involve Others: If possible, involve family members or friends in the preparation process. Delegating tasks can make the process more enjoyable and less stressful.
4. Designate a Quiet Space: Ensure you have a designated quiet space where you can retreat if the noise and activity become too much. If you do not have room for a brief retreat, a short walk to get some fresh air makes a good alternative which also helps to regulate your senses.

Managing Post-Christmas Clutter

The Challenge

After the festivities, your home may be left with a significant amount of clutter, including wrapping paper, empty boxes, and unused decorations. This can be overwhelming and demotivating.

The Solution

1. Set Small Goals: Tackle one area at a time. Start with the most visible areas and gradually move to less frequented spaces.
2. Use Bins for Sorting: Have bins labeled for different categories such as ‘Keep’, ‘Donate’, ‘Recycle’, and ‘Trash’. This can make the decision-making process easier.
3. Schedule Regular Breaks: Take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Use a timer to work for 20 minutes and then take a 5-minute break to recharge without getting bored.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories. Each completed task is a step towards a more organised home.

New Year Resolutions for Clutter Management

The Challenge

Setting and sticking to New Year resolutions can be difficult, especially when it comes to maintaining an organised home. For neurodivergent adults, the challenge is even greater due to executive function difficulties.

The Solution

1. Set Realistic Goals: Choose specific, achievable goals. For example, instead of “I will declutter my entire house,” set a goal like “I will organise one shelf each week.”
2. Create a Routine: Establish a daily or weekly routine for tidying up. Consistency is key to long-term success.
3. Use Visual Reminders: Place sticky notes or use digital reminders to prompt you to complete tasks.
4. Seek Support: Consider joining a support group or working with a professional organiser who understands neurodiversity.

The Benefits of Working with a Neurodivergent Professional Organiser

The Challenge

Finding the right support can be challenging, but working with a professional organiser who understands neurodiversity can make a significant difference.

The Solution

1. Personalised Strategies: As a neurodivergent professional organiser, I can provide tailored strategies that are relevant to your unique needs and challenges.
2. Emotional Support: Working with a neurodivergent professional organiser means that your preferences are understood and supported. You can find motivation and achieve your aims, knowing that you have the space to be yourself and to work in a way that suits you.
3. Practical Tips: I can provide practical tips and tools to help you stay organised, such as colour-coded systems or visual schedules, based on your preferences.
4. Accountability: I know the many obstacles we can face when trying to stay on course, and I believe that having a neurodivergent professional to hold you accountable can help you stay on track and achieve your goals.

Final Thoughts

Organising and decluttering your home during the Christmas and New Year period can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and support, it is achievable. Remember, change takes time, and it’s important to prioritise long-term goals and self-care. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. By taking it one step at a time, you can create a more organised and peaceful home environment.